What characteristic makes a shampoo classified as color-safe?

A shampoo is classified as color-safe primarily because it is sulfate-free. Sulfates are harsh detergents commonly found in many shampoos that can strip hair of its natural oils and diminish the vibrancy of color-treated hair. When sulfates interact with color molecules, they can lead to fading, dullness, and an overall loss of color integrity.

By choosing a sulfate-free option, individuals can better preserve their hair color, keeping it vibrant for longer periods while also maintaining the health and moisture balance of their locks. This characteristic is essential for anyone with color-treated hair, as it helps protect their investment in hair color services.

Other characteristics, such as texture, fragrance, or lather production, do not necessarily indicate that a shampoo is safe for color-treated hair. For example, a thicker texture or a pleasant fragrance may enhance a user's experience but does not impact color preservation. Similarly, a shampoo that produces more lather is not an indicator of its sulfate content; some sulfate-free formulations can still produce a satisfying lather.