Smoothing flyaways, controlling frizz, locking in colour – the best hair serum for coloured hair can transform your life and locks.
Hair is an important aspect of your style and appearance, but there are many factors that can affect the healthiness of it.
The right hair care products can make all the difference in how healthy your hair looks, feels, and even smells!
For example, did you know that using some on your dry or damaged hair can actually help restore some of its natural moisture?
A good quality nourishing serum will not only hydrate your scalp with essential oils like argan oil or coconut oil (which makes for a luxurious experience), but also seal in the extra moisture.
This means less frizz and more shine to boot!
And if you’re looking for a color-safe product that won’t strip away any pigment from your locks while still giving them vibrancy and lustre, then hair seems are for you!
Knowing the right product for you and how to apply it can be a slippery silicone minefield.
We’re here to help you get the swishiest, silkiest hair you’ll love!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases.
Contents
- 1 What are hair serums?
- 2 What do hair serums do?
- 3 How do I use hair serums?
- 4 Are hair serums good for colored hair?
- 5 Is serum good for bleached hair?
- 6 What is the best hair serum for colored hair?
- 7 Best Hair Serums at a glance.
- 8 TOP PICK!
- 9 COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
- 10 #1 Kerastase Reflection Chromatic Fluid.
- 11 #2. COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
- 12 #3 The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
- 13 #4 L’Oreal Serie Expert Serioxyl Denser Serum
- 14 #5 Aussie Shine On Hair Serum.
- 15 They say:
- 16 #6 John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum.
- 17 TOP PICK!
- 18 COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
- 19 Buyer’s guide: How to choose the right hair serum for you.
- 20 Parting words.
What are hair serums?
They are a cuticle-sealing, shine-giving miracle frizz taming remedy.
What it isn’t, is an oil like olive oil or coconut oil. It’s a liquid-based silicone styling product made to smooth, shine and coat your hair shafts with goodness.
It works differently to oil in that it coats to outside of your hair, whereas oil sinks in and penetrates your hair fibre – adding shine, smoothness, hydration, and humidity protection.
They can be applied to wet hair, damp hair or dry hair, as both a pre-styling treatment and a finishing solution.
They’re suitable for all hair types too. Making it a versatile, handy product for in between washes and touch ups on the go.
What do hair serums do?
They coat your hair without dulling its colour. Giving it a super shine and an extra protective barrier against the elements.
Their protective barrier can be used as a quick-fix to control frizz, damaged hair, flyaways and the dreaded, haystack hair.
It’s an essential for keeping coloured locks smooth and silky. As with most styling products, it’s all in the application.
How do I use hair serums?
These slippery miracles come in all shapes and sizes of density and thickness. So you can choose the levels of coating you need based on the condition of your hair and what you want it to do.
The right one for you and how you use it comes with trial and error. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to get you going.
Do:
- Use it after styling to control flyaways and smooth frizz.
- Use it before drying your hair for heat protection.
- Apply it to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, where your hair is older and will have more damage.
- Choose the right density for you hair.
Don’t:
- Don’t apply too much. You’ll risk your hair looking greasy.
- Don’t apply it straight out of the bottle. Warm it in between your fingers first to make sure it goes a long way.
- Don’t apply it to unwashed hair. It forms a protective layer so any dirt or dust on your hair will get locked in.
- Don’t apply it to your roots – this will make your hair look super greasy!
Top tips from the professionals.
Are hair serums good for colored hair?
Hair processing and colouring can make your ends dry and your hair’s overall sheen flat.
They can lock in your colour to prevent dulling, fading, and damage.
Picking which one is right for you depends on the condition and thickness of your hair.
If you have thin hair, you may want to try a thickening one, or a lightweight one that won’t weigh down your hair.
If you have thick, dry hair, these products are made for you!
There are even solutions that enhance curls in curly and wavy hair.
For us coloured hair lovers, we need colour protection and have shiny hair goals. If you style your hair often, they will also protect against damage due to heat.
Is serum good for bleached hair?
I’m sure you’ve heard that if your hair is bleached, it should only be dyed with colour that has been tested for use on chemically-treated hair.
But did you know this also applies to beauty products?
If your hair is damaged and dry, a this may be the perfect solution.
Bleaching your hair removes natural oils and proteins which can cause dryness. Serum helps to replenish what was lost during bleaching while adding shine back into your locks.
They coat the hair strand and give it a smooth, sleek finish. They can also add shine to your locks by restoring moisture and softness. Everything bleached hair needs.
What is the best hair serum for colored hair?
There are several different types on the market, but not all will work for you depending on what your specific needs may be.
You’ll want to experiment with different options until you find one that suits your hair type and lifestyle.
From smoothing anti-frizz to ramping up the high-gloss shine, here is the best serum for coloured hair you need to keep your dyed locks looking fabulous!
Best Hair Serums at a glance.
| Hair Serum | Looks like | Best for | Buy it now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerastase Reflection Chromatic Fluid. |   | Thicker hair. | |
| COLOR WOW Dream Coat. |   | Long lasting shine. | |
| The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density |   | Healthier hair and scalp. | |
| L'Oreal Serie Expert Serioxyl Denser Serum |   | Thickening up fine hair. | |
| Aussie Shine On Hair Serum. |   | Superior shine on a budget. | |
| John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum. |   | Heat protection for thick hair. |
TOP PICK!
COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
Best for: Long lasting shine.
Dream Coat promises a ‘waterproof coat’ but there’s nothing plasticky about it.
It makes your hair smooth and shiny and lasted after one wash on our colour treated hair.
This tops the list for coloured hair for us.
#1 Kerastase Reflection Chromatic Fluid.
They say:
- A softening essence for colour-treated or highlighted hair.
- It nourishes and protects hair while providing a perfect radiance.
- Part of the Les Touches Chromatiques, the 1st colour correcting ink-in-care for colour-treated hair.
- The shampoo and conditioner are both in our top rated products.
Reviewers say:
“Kerastase Chromatique products deliver on the shine and smoothness they promise for colour treated hair. It is like having brand new hair switching to this!”
“I’m addicted to this product for my long hair and curls. You can feel and see the effects immediately. It makes a super nice shine, I will be coming back for more! ;)”
“I bought this and carry it around for the gym. I’ve also used it in humid weather and before straightening. It doesn’t feel greasy at all. Highly recommend it to anyone with dyed hair.”
We say:
We’ve loved Kerastase forever and their colour shampoo and conditioners have long been a must-buy for us with their unique restorative powers. This is a great addition to the must-have list.
It left our hair feeling soft without any residue. You have to use it sparingly as it’s super concentrated. So it goes a long way, but probably best for thicker hair.
Best for: Thicker hair.
#2. COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
They say:
- Heat-activated polymer works to compress, tighten and seal hair strands.
- Hair is supernaturally-sleek, smooth and super-silky.
- Unlike typical “humidity-guard”, Dream Coat will not build up, weigh hair down or make it greasy.
- Activated by heat, effects last through 3 to 4 shampoos.
Reviewers say:
“This product is great it does exactly what it says. It really helps to keep your hair soft, shiny and manageable.”
“I used Dream Filter on my highlighted hair and what a difference. I love it. Dream Coat is just as awesome, my hair is straight and silky. And it lasts for days.”
“So impressed with this product that I ordered the larger bottle so I don’t run out. Love WOW.”
We say:
Color WOW have coloured hair products nailed. Their root cover up and conditioner for colored hair top our Best Of Lists year on year.
This is a spray that works like a serum. The reviews are excellent and after one application, we could see why.
Dream Coat promises a ‘waterproof coat’ but there’s nothing plasticky about it.
It makes your hair smooth and shiny and lasted after one wash on our colour treated hair. This tops the list for us.
Best for: Long lasting shine.
#3 The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
They say:
- A concentrated formula specially designed to support hair health.
- Works to promote a thicker, denser, fuller and healthier-looking head of hair.
- Ultra-lightweight and has an emollient base for effective penetration and maximum results.
Reviewers say:
“I’m a 25 year old woman, and whether from using heat tools or colouring my hair a lot, my hair had started to really thin above my temples. Now you would never know. It does take time but long term usage definitely pays off.”
“I use this almost every night before bed, and I can see that my baby hair has finally started growing longer. The good thing is that it doesn’t leave the hair greasy.”
“I have a very itchy, flakey, irritated scalp, so I got this to moisturise and exfoliate. When I use this regularly I notice a lot less hair shed and my scalp has no itchiness or flakes. I can also go longer in between shampoos now!”
We say:
Stripping back unnecessary packaging and surplus ingredients, The Ordinary has shaken up the skin care industry with their high-performing products.
Now they’re turning their attention to hair and as big fans of their skin care, we had to give this hot new product a go.
Promising thicker, denser, fuller and healthier hair, this concentrated formula is different from a styling product.
It unites natural extracts, peptides and caffeine to nourish your hair from root to tip.
We found it worked wonders on our scalp which was dry from all the processing it goes through. Use this to keep your hair and scalp healthy and in the best condition for colour.
Best for: Healthier hair and scalp.
#4 L’Oreal Serie Expert Serioxyl Denser Serum
They say:
- A super solution that’s suitable for women and men who have very fine or thinning hair, or suffer from hair loss.
- Protects against oxidative stress.
- The formula will leave your hair looking denser and feeling fuller.
Reviewers say:
“I don’t know exactly how it works but I do think that my hair looks fuller and I’m sure that the shedding is less.”
“I highlight my hair every couple of months and this has been a godsend.”
“After using this for about month and half, I realised my hairs looked thicker and many new hairs are growing. I would highly recommend this product.”
We say:
One of the facts of life we live with at Coloured Hair Care is hair breakage.
The processing and dyeing, straightening, crimping and waving we love to do plays havoc with our locks and makes them prone to breaking.
This one is a heavily formulated wonder potion to help your hair grow thicker and denser, with less breakage.
You don’t have to be losing hair to try this, it’s great for repairing damage in places where your hair naturally thins. Finer hair, this is the one for you.
Best for: Thickening up fine hair.
#5 Aussie Shine On Hair Serum.
They say:
- Bring some shine to your locks with Shine On.
- It leaves hair soft, protects coloured hair AND turns up the shine at the same time.
- All you need is a coin-sized amount of the rich formula that’s lovingly infused with Jojoba Seed Oil.
Reviewers say:
“Love this so much! It’s the best one I’ve tried. My hair being bleached is so dry and this really does give the shine back.”
“My hair has a slight curl and it’s quite long. Sometimes it can look flat and lifeless. Aussie did great things and got compliments from work mates. Thanks Aussie. x”
“I love this! My hair was dry, damaged and not looking very good,after i used this it was so shiny and smooth!”
We say:
Back to styling serums and this one smells amazing! It’s thinner than some of the others on the list but it really feels like your hair is drinking it in.
It gives instant smooth and a high-gloss shine. And it’s cheap as chips to boot.
Best for: Superior shine on a budget.
#6 John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum.
They say:
- Instantly eliminate chronic frizz.
- Repels humidity for glossy, silky-smooth style.
- Extra Strength formula, expertly formulated with an unique blend of silicones.
- Seals in moisture, prevents drying and makes hair glossier and stronger.
Reviewers say:
“Does what it says on the tin! Smooth and no frizz. Would purchase again. Would recommend for people with thick or fizzy hair.”
“I have the worst ‘humid’ hair ever! I used this on wet hair and dried it in sections. I gave it the ultimate test and walked to end of the beach and back on windy humid day and AMAZING my hair looked the same as it did when I left the house!”
“This is an absolute game changer. My hair is very frizzy and thick and this just completely smooths my hair out.”
We say:
Not strictly a coloured hair serum but this makes our list as it’s the best for thick, coarse hair. Put it on when wet for the best results and fabulous heat protection.
Frizz Ease overall is an excellent brand that we trust with all of our frizzy hair needs. This is one of their best.
Best for: Heat protection for thick hair.
TOP PICK!
COLOR WOW Dream Coat.
Best for: Long lasting shine.
Dream Coat promises a ‘waterproof coat’ but there’s nothing plasticky about it.
It makes your hair smooth and shiny and lasted after one wash on our colour treated hair. This is the best for coloured hair for us.
Buyer’s guide: How to choose the right hair serum for you.
Choosing a hair serum can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. A good place to start is by understanding your hair type & texture and setting your hair goals.
Once you know what you’re looking for, you can narrow down your choices until you find the perfect serum for you. Let’s get started!
#1 Hair type & texture
The first step in choosing the right hair serum is determining your hair type & texture.
The best way to do this is by considering how much oil or moisture your scalp produces naturally. If your scalp tends to produce a lot of oil, then you probably want a lightweight serum that won’t weigh down your strands and will help control frizz without making your hair look greasy.
On the other hand, if your scalp tends to produce less oil, then you should look for a heavier serum with more moisturizing ingredients like argan oil or shea butter that can help protect and strengthen dry strands.
#2 Hair goals
Once you know what type of serum you need, the next step is figuring out what kind of results you want from it.
Are you looking for something that will add shine? Reduce frizz? Help define curls? Or tame flyaways?
Different serums are designed to accomplish different things, so make sure to read labels carefully and choose one that meets all of your hair care needs.
#3 Formula & ingredients
Finally, make sure to pay attention to the formula and ingredients in each product before making a purchase decision.
Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera or coconut oil which are known for their hydrating properties, as well as vitamins and antioxidants which help nourish and protect damaged strands.
Avoid products with harsh chemicals like sulfates or parabens which can strip away natural oils from the scalp and leave behind residue on the hair shafts which can cause build-up over time.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start searching for the perfect serum!
Parting words.
So now you know if these glaze making miracles are right for you and your coloured hair.
Essentially, they’re frizz-taming conditioners for your hair, but they’re much more potent than regular ones.
They coat the hair shaft and seal in moisture to keep it looking smooth, shiny and healthy.
You can use them before or after you shampoo your hair, depending on what kind of look you want.
There are a lot of different types out there with varying degrees of hold strength, so find one that best suits your needs! Good luck!