Dyeing your hair can boost your mood and lift your spirits as well as cover your grays. But hair dye is bad for your hair; sad fact.
The chemicals and processing involved dries it out and makes it prone to weakness and breakage. That’s why you need the best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair to keep it looking tip top.
Coloured hair care takes a lot more than just buying the right shampoos and conditioners.
We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about leave-in conditioners and why you need them in your life to keep your hair lustre and shine!
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Table of Contents
- What is a leave-in conditioner?
- How do I use a leave-in conditioner?
- Are leave-in conditioners good for colored hair?
- Which is the best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair?
- TOP PICK!
- Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
- #1 Redken One United, Deeply Conditioning Treatment
- #2 Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
- #3 L’Oreal Elvive Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream.
- #4 Unite Leave-IN Conditioner
- #5 John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Miracle Detangling Leave In Conditioner For Dry, Damaged And Frizzy Hair
- #6 Art Naturals – Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner
- TOP PICK!
- Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
- Best leave-in conditioners at a glance.
- Buyer’s guide: How to choose the right leave-in conditioner for you.
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Parting words.
- Our Research & Review Process
What is a leave-in conditioner?
Just like the name suggest, leave-in conditioners you leave in your hair to smooth and nourish it while protecting it from heat.
Like regular conditioners, they heal and repair dry and damaged hair that’s been frazzled by checmical processes like hair dyeing and bleaching.
They contain all sorts of clever and lovely smelling ingredients that work their magic in your hair – such as natural oils and proteins, keratin, amino acids and lipids.
They keep your hair moisturised, supple and looking fabulous in between washes.
How do I use a leave-in conditioner?
Leave-in conditioning treatments are applied on freshly washed, towel dried hair before blow drying and styling.
You do not rinse them out – hence the name, leave-in!
Like all conditioners, you concentrate on working it through the mid to ends of your hair, staying away from the roots to avoid looking greasy and using it sparingly.
The best thing about them is that you can use them whenever your hair needs you to.
They come in pump or spray form and in smaller bottles than conditioners so they’re handy to carry about wherever you go.
You can give a quick spritz to hair that’s looking dry or use to give you more time in between washes.
Are leave-in conditioners good for colored hair?
These little miracle potions are THE BEST for colored hair and an essential for your hair care routine.
Just like deep conditioning treatments, they work wonders by smoothing your hair shafts, sealing in your color and keeping your hair hydrated and sleek.
They’re particularly good for any dry, frizzy hair, smoothing flyaways and help tame curly and natural hair too.
Which is the best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair?
From extra moisture to repairing split ends, smoothing, shining and strengthening, here are the best leave-in conditioners you need in your life and hair right now!
TOP PICK!
Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
Best for: Strength and shine.
Pureology know their stuff when it comes to coloured hair care and we love and trust any product made with ‘AntiFade complex.’
This has a gorgeous fragrance and is a super-lightweight spray that soaks into your hair easily.
It makes your hair feel stronger and gave it a great shine and much less frizz than usual after drying.
A lot comes out at once so watch where you’re spraying! This tops the list for us.
Pros
- Prevents Breakage
- Long-Lasting Use
- Softens and Shines Hair
- Enhances Dyed Hair Color
- Tames Frizz Effectively
- Non-Greasy Formula
- Strengthens Hair
- Adds Shine
- Lightweight Spray
- Pleasant Fragrance
Cons
- Essential for Continuous Use
- Potentially Overpowering Spray Output
#1 Redken One United, Deeply Conditioning Treatment
Features & ingredients:
- A multi-tasking hair treatment that delivers twenty five benefits.
- Improves manageability, protection and beauty.
- Lightweight and deeply conditioning spray.
- Works to reduce dryness and enhance the caring properties of other products.
- Softens the texture of styling treatments for smooth and nourished results.
Reviewers say:
“This product claims to have 25 benefits which I am not sure about, but it does help smooth, detangle and defrizz my hair.”
“It’s worth the money for sure, and a little goes pretty far so it’s good value. One of the best Redken products I have tried.”
“Can’t rate this product high enough. Smells great, makes my hair feel silky soft and smooth. I have ash blonde highlighted hair and it brings out the colour and makes my hair shine.”
Our experience:
25 benefits? We’re not so sure! We tried this on thick, curly hair and it left our hair soft, manageable and completely tangle free (which never happens!).
It did leave a little residue though so use it really sparingly. Those with fine hair might need to skip conditioning and go straight to this.
Best for: Thick and curly hair.
#2 Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
Features & ingredients:
- A multi-purpose spray that delivers twenty-one essential benefits to prime, protect and perfect colour-treated hair.
- Its unique AntiFadeComplex with antioxidant fennel extract protects hair from environmental aggressors and heat damage.
- Specially formulated with vegetable-based protein Keravis™ to strengthen hair.
- A blend of natural oils, including coconut and olive oil to smoothen and condition hair, without weighing it down.
Reviewers say:
“I’ve been using Pureology on my dry, brittle and fine hair for about 6 years now and the minute I stop using it, my hair snaps and breaks. I can’t brush my hair without it and you only need a few pumps so it lasts forever too.”
“This fanatic spray is amazing, hair is so soft shiny, easy to comb through, and my colour stays absolutely beautiful as I have bright Red Hair. Best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair I have found.”
“I have oily roots but dry frizzy long hair and this product helps tame my frizz and doesn’t leave it looking oily the next day. I use this on damp hair and sometimes on dry hair in humid weather to keep the frizz down.”
Our experience:
Pureology know their stuff when it comes to coloured hair care and we love and trust any product made with ‘AntiFade complex.’
This has a gorgeous fragrance and is a super-lightweight spray that soaks into your hair easily.
It makes your hair feel stronger and gave it a great shine and much less frizz than usual after drying.
A lot comes out at once so watch where you’re spraying! This tops the list for us.
Best for: Strength and shine.
#3 L’Oreal Elvive Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream.
Features & ingredients:
- The cream targets split ends and damage to keep your locks looking smoother and healthier.
- A blend of vitamins, castor oil and keratin.
- Split ends won’t appear as pronounced.
- Strands will be strengthened to help protect against further breakage and damage.
Reviewers say:
“This product is a must for long hair! It keeps hair in great condition, looks after split ends and keeps it looking healthy and shiny! I can’t be without it!!”
“100% recommend this I have long hair and this works miracles, lovely smell, nice size and bargain of a price.”
“I can see such a difference, I used to struggle with split and dry ends but after using this it has all changed! It leaves my hair feeling so soft and smells soooo good.”
Our experience:
This smells amazing. It’s cleverly marketed as a product that helps you to go longer in between hair cuts – and it does!
It’s part leave-in conditioner, part styling cream that gives you that extra finesse.
It’s quite heavy on your locks but it penetrates hair well so doesn’t leave any residue.
We found it dried quite quickly but it did leave our hair feeling soft. This is the best for budget.
Best for: Budget.
#4 Unite Leave-IN Conditioner
Features & ingredients:
- Must-have prep for all hair types
- Instantly detangles
- Perfect balance of moisture and proteins
- Repairs, locks in color and strengthens
- Thermal and UV protector.
Reviewers say:
“If you have hair then you need this leave in conditioner. If your hair is dry, you just spray and brush. My daughter and I never go without it.”
“I absolutely love the way this product makes my hair feel after using it! I colour my hair and it gets dry and it’s hard to comb through after washing it. This product makes it easy to comb through, and soft and silky.”
“Love this product! After trying so many, I am happy to find one that works
Our experience:
This leave-in conditioner from Unite has made the cut (geddit?) because the reviews are outstanding.
What’s great about it is the way it gets rid of knots and tangles in hair when it’s wet. You can feel the difference as soon as you spray it in as it relaxes and softens your hair.
A little goes a long way as it’s very lightweight. This is the best one for fine hair.
Best for: Thin and fine hair.
#5 John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Miracle Detangling Leave In Conditioner For Dry, Damaged And Frizzy Hair
Features & ingredients:
- Nourishes and detangles dry, damaged strands
- Helps hair resist breakage and feel silky-smooth.
- Vitamin-infused with heat protectant.
Reviewers say:
“With this great product I simply spritz on, comb through and scrunch and I’m done. No frizz, smooth and shiny curls and lovely soft hair. What more can you ask for?”
“This makes my hair dry so sleek and silky and gets rid of all the frizziness, plus it works as a heat protectant. Great all round hair product!”
“My own hair gets tangled easily and having hair extensions doesn’t help, one side of my hair is extremely frizzy but this product takes that all away. Could not live without, this is my little miracle in a bottle!”
Our experience:
John Freida’s Frizz Ease range is simply made for coloured hair. This leave-in conditioner is for daily use – or is it?
Sure thing it calms the frizz, smells great and made our hair feel soft and silky again.
But after using it daily, we felt the product build up on the ends a little bit. Still the best for fighting frizz.
Best for: Fighting frizz.
#6 Art Naturals – Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner
Features & ingredients:
- Rejuvenating conditioner for all hair types.
- Absorbs into the hair follicle repairing and protecting it from styling heat and UV rays.
- Leaves hair silky, soft and shiny.
- Contains 100% pure organic oils that enhance the health and overall appearance of the hair.
- Prevents breakage and nourishes your hair.
Reviewers say:
“Holy grail product. This conditioner is natural and smells woodsy. Leaves my hair soft and smooth and a little goes a long way. It is an absolute miracle. Love it so much and would definitely recommend it.”
“I buy this often very nice smell and makes the hair soft and hydrated.”
“I have curly hair and I used to use a styling product after washing my hair, it’s the leave-in conditioner for me!”
Our experience:
ArtNaturals argan oil products are divine and totally revitalising for stressed out dyed hair.
This soaks into your hair to leave it feeling super soft and manageable.
It’s not too greasy despite the oils but could be a little heavy for fine hair.
Go for this if your hair is extra dry and thirsty. Top marks for all natural ingredients too.
Best for: Dry and damaged hair.
TOP PICK!
Pureology Colour Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray
Best for: Strength and shine.
Pureology know their stuff when it comes to coloured hair care and we love and trust any product made with ‘AntiFade complex.’
This has a gorgeous fragrance and is a super-lightweight spray that soaks into your hair easily.
It makes your hair feel stronger and gave it a great shine and much less frizz than usual after drying.
A lot comes out at once so watch where you’re spraying! This is the best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair for us.
Best leave-in conditioners at a glance.
| Redken One United, Deeply Conditioning Treatment | Thick and curly hair | ||
| Pureology Color Fanatic 21 Benefits Hair Treatment Spray | Strength and shine | ||
| L’Oreal Elvive Dream Lengths No Haircut Cream. | Budget | ||
| Unite Leave-IN Conditioner | Thin and fine hair | ||
| John Frieda Frizz Ease Daily Miracle Detangling Leave In Conditioner | Fighting frizz | ||
| Art Naturals – Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioner | Dry and damaged hair |
Buyer’s guide: How to choose the right leave-in conditioner for you.
The right leave-in conditioner can revive your locks and make them look and feel sleek and shiny – but there are so many options out there, how do you choose the best one for you? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the perfect leave-in conditioner for you.
#1 Consider your hair type & texture
One of the most important factors when choosing a leave-in conditioner is your hair type and texture.
Different types of hair require different formulations, so if you have curly or wavy hair, you’ll want a product that helps keep frizz at bay.
If you have thick or coarse hair, look for a heavier formula that will add moisture without weighing down your strands.
And if you have fine or thinning hair, opt for a lighter product that won’t weigh down your strands or make them look too greasy.
#2 What are your hair goals?
Do you want to reduce frizz and enhance shine?
Do you want to restore moisture and hydrate dry ends?
Or do you simply want to protect your color from fading in between salon visits?
Knowing exactly what kind of results you’re hoping for can help narrow down your choices when it comes to selecting the right leave-in conditioner.
#3 Check the formula & ingredients
Finally, take a close look at the formula and ingredients of each product before making a purchase.
You’ll want to avoid any formulas that contain sulfates or parabens as these can be harsh on delicate hair types.
Instead, look for natural ingredients such as argan oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, avocado oil and more – all these natural ingredients will help nourish and hydrate your locks without causing any damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are leave-in conditioners good for dyed hair?
Leave-in conditioners are great for dyed hair as they provide extra moisture and nourishment. They help to maintain hair color vibrancy, prevent dryness, and protect against damage caused by dyeing processes.
Can leave-in conditioners protect hair color from fading?
Yes, many leave-in conditioners contain ingredients specifically designed to protect hair color from fading. They often include UV filters and antioxidants that safeguard the hair from environmental factors that can cause color to deteriorate.
How often should I use a leave-in conditioner on dyed hair?
It depends on your hair type and condition. Generally, you can use a leave-in conditioner every time you wash your hair, or more frequently if your dyed hair is particularly dry or damaged.
Are there specific ingredients to look for in leave-in conditioners for dyed hair?
A4: Look for ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and natural extracts that provide hydration and repair. Avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens that can strip hair color and lead to dryness.
Can leave-in conditioners weigh down fine hair?
Some leave-in conditioners might be too heavy for fine hair, causing it to appear limp. It’s important to choose a lightweight formula specifically designed for fine or thin hair to avoid this issue.
How do I apply leave-in conditioner to my dyed hair?
Apply leave-in conditioner to damp, towel-dried hair. Start from the mid-lengths and work towards the ends. Avoid the roots to prevent greasiness. Comb through for even distribution.
Are leave-in conditioners suitable for all hair types?
Yes, there are leave-in conditioners available for all hair types, including curly, straight, fine, and thick hair. It’s important to choose a product that matches your specific hair type and needs.
Can I use leave-in conditioner on non-wash days?
Absolutely! Leave-in conditioners can be used on non-wash days to refresh your style and provide extra moisture and frizz control.
Will leave-in conditioners affect my hair dye color?
No, most leave-in conditioners are formulated to be safe for dyed hair and should not affect your hair color when used as directed.
Can men use these leave-in conditioners for dyed hair?
Yes, these leave-in conditioners are suitable for anyone with dyed hair, regardless of gender. The key is to choose a product that suits your hair type and concerns.
Parting words.
The health of your hair is important and the right routine with the best conditioners can go a long way to improving it. Finding the best leave-in conditioner for dyed hair is essential if you’re trying to keep your colours looking vibrant.
With so many options on the market, it can be really difficult to find a product that works well with your specific hair needs.
After learning more about these six amazing products, you should now have an idea on which one is right for you and your dyed hair!
No matter what type of leave-in conditioner you choose, be sure to use it regularly and according to the instructions so that you can reap the most benefits from its use.
You wouldn’t want all that effort for something that won’t last or work, would you? Invest in yourself and make sure dyed hair looks good no matter what– you’re worth it!
Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @colouredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair dye success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
