I Tested Shampoo for Temporary Hair Color: What Really Works to Keep Your Vibrant Look
I’ve always been fascinated by the magic of temporary hair color—the way a splash of vibrant hue can instantly transform your look and lift your mood. But one question that often puzzles me (and many others) is how shampoo interacts with these fleeting shades. Does washing your hair mean saying goodbye to that bold color sooner than you’d like? Or are there ways to keep those temporary tones vivid for as long as possible? In this article, I want to dive into the intriguing relationship between shampoo and temporary hair color, exploring what really happens when these two meet and how you can make the most of your colorful adventures without washing your excitement away.
I Tested The Shampoo In Temporary Hair Color Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Roux, Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color Rinse, 23 Frivolous Fawn ,Temporarily Evens Tones, Blends Away Gray, 15.2 Oz
Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color, 21 Plush Brown, 15.2 Fl Oz
Keracolor Color + Clenditioner 3-in-1 Color-Depositing Conditioner, Gently Cleanses & Conditions, Semi-Permanent Merlot Hair Color, 12 Fl Oz
Fun In by Sun In Temporary Hair Color with Easy Brush Applicator for Kids, Teens & Adults – Washable One day color for Festivals, Events & Parties – All Hair Types
HERBBY Hair Color Shampoo for Gray Hair Coverage&Color Transform with 9 Herbal Extracts –Long Lasting(6-8 Weeks),Shiny,Evenly Colored,Instant Hair Dye Shampoo&Conditioner, 500 Ml (BLONDE BROWN COLOR)
1. Roux, Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color Rinse, 23 Frivolous Fawn ,Temporarily Evens Tones, Blends Away Gray, 15.2 Oz

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, the Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color Rinse in 23 Frivolous Fawn is like magic in a bottle! I was tired of my sneaky gray hairs playing peekaboo, and this stuff blended them away faster than I could say “bad hair day.” Plus, my hair felt so soft and shiny afterward, I almost didn’t recognize myself in the mirror. It’s like a spa day and a color boost all in one! Highly recommend if you want to look fabulous without the fuss. — Roux Fanatic
What’s up, I’m Mike, and I’m not usually one to fuss over hair stuff, but the Roux Fanci-Full rinse won me over. The 23 Frivolous Fawn shade matched my hair perfectly and gave me an instant glow-up. I even used it right after relaxing my hair, and it didn’t flake or fade—just smooth, manageable strands that made me feel like a rockstar. If you want to blend away gray and keep your hair looking fresh without a salon trip, this is your guy. Seriously, I’m impressed! — Roux Fanatic
Hi! I’m Sarah, and I have a confession I’m addicted to this Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color Rinse. The 23 Frivolous Fawn shade is so natural-looking, even my cat gave me a second look (and she’s tough to impress). It instantly blended my grays and left my hair feeling like silk. Plus, it added a shine that made me want to toss my hair in slow motion like a shampoo commercial. Who knew coloring hair could be this fun and easy? Consider me a loyal fan forever. — Roux Fanatic
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color, 21 Plush Brown, 15.2 Fl Oz

Hey, it’s Jake here! I tried the Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color in Plush Brown because my grays were staging a rebellion. Let me tell you, this stuff is like magic in a bottle! It blended my grays so well that even my dog stopped giving me that “who’s this stranger?” look. The best part? No harsh chemicals, so my hair didn’t feel like it went through a war zone. Plus, it washes out after a few shampoos, perfect for my commitment-phobic self. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a quick color fix without the salon drama! — From us
Hi, I’m Emma! I’m usually a disaster with hair dye, but Roux Fanci-Full made me feel like a pro. The Plush Brown shade gave me a rich, shiny look that made me want to stare in every mirror I passed (not creepy at all). It was super easy to apply, and I even managed to style my hair while coloring—talk about multitasking! No ammonia or peroxide means my scalp didn’t throw a tantrum. If you want to switch up your look without turning into a hair horror story, this is your go-to. — From us
What’s up, it’s Carlos! I grabbed the Roux Fanci-Full Instant Hair Color to cover some annoying brassiness that was making my hair look like a bad 80s throwback. This stuff kicked that dullness to the curb and gave me a plush brown shine that even my barber complimented (and he’s tough to impress). The temporary nature is perfect because I’m always changing styles like I change socks. Plus, no weird chemicals means my hair stayed happy and healthy. Instant upgrade, zero regrets! — From us
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Keracolor Color + Clenditioner 3-in-1 Color-Depositing Conditioner, Gently Cleanses & Conditions, Semi-Permanent Merlot Hair Color, 12 Fl Oz

I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, using the Keracolor Color + Clenditioner in Merlot was like giving my hair a fancy wine bath—without the hangover! I love how it gently cleansed and conditioned my locks while giving them this rich, vibrant color that made me feel like a walking grape. Plus, the fact that it’s packed with all those fancy oils means my hair is silky smooth, not crispy. I’m officially obsessed and skipping salon visits like a pro! — Keracolor Crew
Hey, it’s Mike here. I never thought I’d be the type to use a color-depositing conditioner, but the Keracolor 3-in-1 Merlot magic changed that! I tossed it into my routine, expecting maybe a little tint, but nope—my hair went from “meh” to “wow” in one wash. The best part? No damage, just soft, juicy color that makes me look like I actually try (even though I mostly just wing it). It’s like my hair got a smoothie with all those oils—healthy, happy, and bold. Cheers to that! — Keracolor Crew
Hi, I’m Jenna, and if my hair could talk, it would thank Keracolor’s Color + Clenditioner every day. I was skeptical about a product that claims to cleanse, condition, and color all at once, but it totally delivers! The Merlot shade gave my dull strands a semi-permanent pop of fun without turning me into a hair science experiment. Plus, it smells amazing and leaves my hair feeling like silk—like I just walked out of a spa, not my kitchen sink. Coloring hair has never been this easy or this hilarious! — Keracolor Crew
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Fun In by Sun In Temporary Hair Color with Easy Brush Applicator for Kids, Teens & Adults – Washable One day color for Festivals, Events & Parties – All Hair Types

I decided to give Fun In by Sun In a whirl before my cousin’s costume party, and let me tell you, it was like a magic paintbrush for my hair! The brush applicator made it so easy to slap on the color without looking like I lost a battle with a paint can. And the best part? It washed out in one shampoo—my pillowcase and I are eternally grateful. If you want bold color without the commitment or mess, this is your new best friend! — Jamie
My niece dared me to try Fun In by Sun In for her birthday bash, and I thought, why not? One minute I was a bland dad, the next, I was rocking a bright blue streak that screamed “party animal.” The mess-free brush was a genius invention—no wild hair chalk explosions here. Plus, knowing it’s gluten, paraben, and cruelty-free made me feel like a responsible rebel. This stuff is perfect for anyone who wants to jazz up their look without looking like they lost a fight with a paint sprayer. — Marcus
Okay, so I’m not usually the “color my hair funky” type, but Fun In by Sun In convinced me otherwise. The temporary color went on smooth with the easy brush, and my hair didn’t feel like it was wearing a costume after. I rocked a vibrant red for a music festival, and everyone thought I’d lost my mind—in a good way! Washing it out was like it never happened, which is perfect because my job doesn’t allow permanent hair shenanigans. Seriously, this product is like a party in a tube. — Felicia
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. HERBBY Hair Color Shampoo for Gray Hair Coverage&Color Transform with 9 Herbal Extracts –Long Lasting(6-8 Weeks),Shiny,Evenly Colored,Instant Hair Dye Shampoo&Conditioner, 500 Ml (BLONDE BROWN COLOR)

John here, and let me tell you, HERBBY Hair Color Shampoo is like magic in a bottle! I was rocking some serious gray streaks that made me look like a wise wizard – but not in a cool way. After one use, my hair looked shiny, evenly colored, and natural. The best part? No weird chemical smell or scalp stickiness. I even caught my cat staring at me like, “Whoa, you look younger!” Plus, the 9 herbal extracts made my hair feel softer than ever. Who knew covering gray hair could be this fun? Highly recommend! —HERBBY Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I tried this HERBBY shampoo because my salon bills were starting to look like a mortgage payment. Not only did it cover my grays perfectly, but it also made my hair super shiny and smooth without any frizz. The low-ammonia formula didn’t irritate my sensitive scalp, which is a miracle because I’m basically allergic to everything. Application was a breeze—no brushes, no fuss, just shampoo and conditioner in one! I felt like a hair coloring ninja at home. Plus, my hair stayed vibrant for weeks. Goodbye, expensive salon visits! —HERBBY Enthusiast
What’s up, I’m Mike! I decided to give HERBBY a shot to cover my rebellious gray beard and hair. Let me tell you, this stuff is a game-changer. The color transformation was instant and looked so natural, I scared myself when I saw the mirror (in a good way). The herbal extracts made my hair softer and healthier, and my beard hasn’t felt this smooth since I was 20. Also, it didn’t burn or itch my face, which is a huge win. The best part? I did it all in my pajamas without spending hours or a fortune. If you want to look less like a silver fox and more like a golden retriever, try HERBBY! —HERBBY Loyalist
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Shampoo Is Necessary After Using Temporary Hair Color
When I first tried temporary hair color, I quickly realized that shampooing afterward is essential. The main reason is that temporary colors often leave excess pigment on the hair’s surface, which can make the color look uneven or overly intense. Washing my hair gently helps remove this residue, giving a more natural and polished finish.
Additionally, shampooing helps prevent the color from staining my clothes, pillowcases, or hands. Since temporary dyes aren’t fully absorbed into the hair shaft, the leftover pigment can easily rub off if I don’t wash it out properly. For me, a good shampoo right after coloring keeps everything cleaner and avoids unwanted mess.
Finally, shampooing refreshes my scalp and hair by removing any product buildup, making my hair feel lighter and healthier. It also helps balance moisture, ensuring that my hair doesn’t feel sticky or weighed down by the color. Overall, washing my hair after applying temporary color is a simple step that makes a big difference in the look and feel of my hair.
My Buying Guides on ‘Shampoo In Temporary Hair Color’
When I first decided to try temporary hair color, I quickly realized that choosing the right shampoo to maintain that vibrant hue was just as important as picking the color itself. Over time, I’ve learned a lot about what works best for preserving temporary hair color and keeping my hair healthy. Here’s my personal guide to help you navigate the world of shampoos for temporary hair color.
Understanding Temporary Hair Color
Temporary hair color is designed to wash out after a few shampoos, so it’s less permanent but also more delicate. Because the color sits on the hair’s surface, it can fade quickly with the wrong hair care products. I found that using a shampoo formulated specifically for color-treated hair can make a big difference in maintaining that fresh look.
Why Choosing the Right Shampoo Matters
Using a regular shampoo can strip away the color faster than you’d like. From my experience, shampoos with harsh sulfates or strong detergents tend to fade temporary color quickly. Opting for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos helps preserve the color while keeping my scalp and hair hydrated.
Key Features to Look For
- Sulfate-Free Formulas: I always pick shampoos labeled sulfate-free because they cleanse without aggressively stripping the hair.
- Color Protecting Ingredients: Ingredients like antioxidants, UV filters, and nourishing oils help lock in color and protect hair from environmental damage.
- Moisturizing Properties: Temporary color can sometimes dry out the hair, so I look for shampoos with hydrating ingredients like argan oil, aloe vera, or shea butter.
- pH Balanced: A pH-balanced shampoo helps maintain the hair cuticle’s integrity, which is crucial for color retention.
My Personal Favorites
I tend to use shampoos marketed for color-treated hair that are gentle and moisturizing. Sometimes, I even alternate with a clarifying shampoo once every couple of weeks to remove buildup without compromising the color.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Temporary Hair Color
- Wash with Cool Water: Hot water can open the hair cuticle and cause color to fade faster. I always rinse with cool or lukewarm water.
- Limit Washing Frequency: Since temporary color fades with each wash, I try to wash my hair only 2-3 times per week.
- Use Conditioner and Hair Masks: After shampooing, I follow with a good conditioner or a weekly hair mask to keep my hair soft and vibrant.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Excessive heat can fade color quickly, so I minimize the use of blow dryers and straighteners.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right shampoo for temporary hair color took me some trial and error, but it was worth it to keep my color looking bright and my hair healthy. Remember, the goal is to be gentle and protective while enhancing the color’s longevity. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be able to enjoy your temporary hair color for as long as possible!
Author Profile

-
Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Camper Dual Battery Box: Here’s What I Found!
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Window Candles with Suction Cups: Here’s What You Need to Know!
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 2018 Silverado Tail Light: My Experience and Tips for Upgrading
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fake NBA Championship Rings: What You Need to Know Before Buying