I can't tell you what my natural hair color is because I've been dyeing it since I was in middle school. And with good reason, whether it's a new, bold change or even just a simple rinse, dying your hair can make you feel like a new person. The only problem is--it can be a pain to make that new found shine and brilliance last much longer than a month...unless you have a great shampoo and conditioner. Below, some suggestions of brands that I tried in 2009. Give them a shot and let us know what you think!
Aquage SeaExtend Silkening Shampoo and Conditioner
www.aquage.com
The Aquage SeaExtend line uses botanical blends to seal in the hair cuticle and lock in hair color, which I thought worked pretty well. My hair color didn't last longer than usual, but it definitely didn't wash out quickly either. My hair was shiny, and bonus--the line creates a heat-activated shield so your hair doesn't dry out when you blow dry or use heat styling tools.
John Frieda Root Awakening® Strength Restoring ™Shampoo and Conditioner
www.johnfrieda.com
It's not too often that I pick up shampoo and conditioner from a drugstore (okay, so I'm spoiled), but I'm really glad I stumbled across the John Frieda Root Awakening line recently. The product gets a big thumbs up because they use just enough eucalyptus to wake you up in the morning--not too much, just enough. It cleans your hair well, the scent is nice, and the conditioner is great for unruly hair like mine. I opted for Strength Restoring, but there's also Health Infusing for normal hair and Nourishing Moisture for dry hair. Best of all, the formulas are safe on color-treated hair.
Rahua Organic Shampoo and Conditioner by Amazon Beauty 
www.shop.amazonbeautysecret.com
A great shampoo and conditioner for those who like to use products that contain 100% natural ingredients. The scent is light, my hair felt smooth without feeling heavy, and my color lasted pretty well.
Phytonectar Shampooing and Phytokarite Mask for Ultra-Dry Hair 
www.drugstore.com
Fans of Phyto products are very loyal and understandably so. Upon first use of the Phytonectar Shampooing formula, I noticed that it didn't lather quickly--which is a good thing. It means it doesn't contain sulphate or other ingredients that are actually bad for your hair. The scent is nice because it's light and is the essence of the ingredients it's made with. Same with the Phytokarite Mask--different scent from the shampoo, but only because it has different ingredients to make it effective. I coated my hair with it and left it on for 5 minutes. Once rinsed, my hair felt smooth and clean. (Free Beauty Samples members got to try these products in our November mailing!)
