Overview

CHI Color Illuminate Shampoo Red Auburn 12oz is specially formulated to revitalize color-treated hair, particularly for those with vibrant red or auburn tones. This color-depositing shampoo helps maintain vibrancy and prevent fading, ensuring your red hues stay rich between salon visits. It’s sulfate-free and paraben-free, offering a gentle yet effective cleansing experience that nourishes your hair without harsh chemicals. The formula is designed to keep color-treated strands looking fresh and hydrated while ensuring the natural beauty of your hair remains intact.

Key Ingredients & Benefits

This shampoo features a powerful color-depositing formula that targets and refreshes red auburn tones. Infused with nourishing ingredients, it deeply penetrates the hair to replenish both color and moisture, keeping your locks soft and shiny. Its gentle, sulfate-free and paraben-free composition makes it ideal for those with sensitive scalps. The cruelty-free formula ensures you can take care of your hair while adhering to ethical beauty standards, giving you healthy, vibrant hair without compromising on performance or safety.

Best For

This red auburn shampoo is perfect for anyone with color-treated hair, especially those with red or auburn shades. It’s particularly suited for people who want to maintain their hair color without the harsh effects of sulfates or parabens. The gentle formula makes it an excellent choice for daily use, providing a safe, nourishing cleanse without stripping the hair of its natural moisture. Sulfate-free and paraben-free, it’s ideal for individuals seeking a cruelty-free product that supports both healthy hair and ethical beauty standards.

User Feedback

Users are generally impressed with the way this shampoo keeps red tones looking vibrant without causing dryness or fading. Many appreciate its gentle formula, which doesn't strip the hair of natural oils or irritate the scalp. The scent is another point of praise; it’s subtle and not overpowering, making it ideal for daily use. However, a few users mentioned that it may require a couple of washes to fully see the color-enhancing effects, but most agree it’s a reliable shampoo for color-treated hair.

Pros

  • This shampoo effectively helps maintain red tones, preventing color from fading quickly between salon visits.
  • The color-depositing formula is gentle and does not dry out hair, keeping it soft and moisturized.
  • It is sulfate-free and paraben-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive scalps or dry hair.
  • Many users appreciate the subtle scent, which is not overpowering and is suitable for daily use.
  • The cruelty-free certification appeals to ethical consumers who are looking for animal-free products.
  • Ideal for people with red or auburn color-treated hair who need regular color maintenance.
  • This shampoo works well for maintaining vibrant hair color without the need for frequent salon visits.
  • The moisturizing formula is gentle enough for daily use without stripping hair of its natural oils.

Cons

  • Some users with fine or oily hair found this shampoo to be a bit too moisturizing, making their hair feel weighed down.
  • Those with highly processed or severely faded red tones may not see significant color restoration with this product.
  • A few buyers felt the shampoo didn’t lather as much as they expected, which might feel less satisfying for those used to traditional formulas.
  • Users who prefer a stronger fragrance might find the scent too subtle and it fades too quickly for their liking.
  • Not suitable for humid climates, as the moisturizing formula may make hair feel heavier in damp conditions.
  • The color-depositing formula may not be enough for people who need more intensive color treatment for very faded hair.
  • Some users experienced that the shampoo works best for maintaining color, but not necessarily for vibrant color rejuvenation.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a variety of platforms and languages, we found that the CHI Color Illuminate Shampoo Red Auburn 12oz consistently impresses many users, particularly for its ability to maintain vibrant red tones. The ratings reflect both the product's strengths, such as its gentle formula and color-depositing properties, and some occasional concerns about its performance for all hair types. Feedback was carefully filtered to exclude spam, bot, and incentivized reviews, ensuring only high-quality input informed these scores.

Effectiveness for Color Maintenance
89%
Many users find that this shampoo effectively refreshes and maintains red-toned hair between salon visits. The color-depositing formula ensures that vibrant shades last longer, keeping the hair looking fresh without fading too quickly. Reviewers also love how it enhances the natural richness of red hues without being too overpowering.
Some users have noted that the shampoo doesn't provide long-lasting color vibrancy for those with heavily faded or very dull red hair. While it works well for maintaining vibrancy in mildly faded shades, those with severe fading may not see as dramatic results.
Sulfate-Free Formula
93%
The sulfate-free formula is a major highlight for users with sensitive scalps or dry hair. It helps prevent the stripping of natural oils, keeping hair soft and hydrated. Many buyers appreciate how it leaves their hair feeling nourished and gentle without the harshness of sulfates, especially for frequent use.
A few reviewers feel that the lack of sulfates may affect the lather, making it slightly harder to work into a rich foam. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for most, some people prefer a more traditional shampoo experience with thicker lather for better spread.
Moisturizing Benefits
85%
Users love how moisturizing this shampoo is, especially for color-treated hair. It provides deep hydration, leaving the hair feeling soft and smooth after use. Many have mentioned that it works well in restoring moisture to dry, brittle strands, making the hair more manageable and shiny.
Some individuals with fine or oily hair have mentioned that the moisturizing effect can feel a little too heavy, potentially weighing hair down or causing it to feel greasy faster than they’d like. This shampoo might not be ideal for those with naturally oilier hair textures.
Gentle on Hair and Scalp
91%
The gentle formula of this shampoo is praised for being easy on both hair and scalp, even for those with sensitive skin. It cleanses effectively without causing dryness or irritation. Many users have shared that it leaves their scalp feeling refreshed and free of product buildup without any itching or tightness afterward.
While most users find it gentle, a small number of individuals with very sensitive scalps report mild irritation after prolonged use. This issue seems rare but can occur, especially for those with certain scalp conditions that require extra care in choosing products.
Fragrance Quality
78%
22%
The shampoo has a pleasant, subtle fragrance that users describe as fresh but not overpowering. Many buyers appreciate that the scent isn't too strong, making it suitable for daily use without overwhelming other fragrances, like perfumes.
Some users find the scent too mild or even somewhat bland, particularly those who prefer stronger, more distinct fragrances. A few also mentioned that the scent fades too quickly, leaving no lingering fragrance on the hair after washing.
Ease of Use
88%
The shampoo is easy to apply, lathers well (despite being sulfate-free), and rinses out effortlessly. Many buyers find it convenient for daily use, with no complicated steps involved. The manageable 12oz bottle size also makes it ideal for travel or gym bags.
A few users have pointed out that the bottle design can be slightly awkward, especially when nearing the end of the product. It can be tricky to squeeze out the last bit of shampoo, which some find a little frustrating during the final uses.
Value for Money
92%
Given its effective color maintenance and nourishing properties, many users feel this shampoo is a great value for money. The product’s gentle formula and sulfate-free attributes add to its appeal, making it suitable for long-term use without the need to replace frequently. It delivers good results while still being affordable for many.
Some buyers feel that, while the shampoo works well, it could be more affordable, especially for those with long hair who need to use more product. A few mentioned they prefer larger quantities or more concentrated formulations for better value.
Cruelty-Free Certification
96%
The cruelty-free certification is a significant selling point for many users who prioritize ethical beauty products. Buyers appreciate that the shampoo aligns with their values and supports brands that don’t test on animals. This is especially important for those who are committed to supporting sustainable and ethical beauty brands.
There are no major cons associated with the cruelty-free certification, as it is generally seen as a positive attribute. However, a very small number of users have mentioned that they wish there were more detailed information on the sourcing and testing practices to further confirm the product’s ethical stance.
Packaging/Dispensing
80%
20%
The packaging is compact and practical, with a secure cap that makes it easy to store and use. Users find it easy to control the amount of shampoo dispensed, helping to avoid waste. The 12oz size is convenient for both home and travel use.
Some users find the bottle design a bit hard to manage when it’s almost empty, as it becomes difficult to get the last of the shampoo out. Additionally, a few have reported that the plastic feels a bit thin compared to other shampoos in similar price ranges.
Long-Term Color Results
84%
Over time, users report that this shampoo helps in preserving the depth and vibrancy of their red-toned hair. Many have found that it prevents color from fading too quickly, particularly for those who are vigilant about color-treated hair care. It also seems to enhance the overall health of the hair in the long term.
A few individuals with very processed or bleached red hair felt that the long-term results weren’t as dramatic as they hoped. Some have mentioned that they experienced fading faster than expected after a few weeks of use, especially if they wash their hair frequently.
Customer Satisfaction
87%
Most customers express high satisfaction with this shampoo, particularly due to its color-preserving qualities and gentle formula. Users love that it works for a variety of hair types and maintains its performance even with daily use. Positive reviews often mention that it’s a dependable shampoo for anyone with color-treated hair.
Though generally well-received, a few dissatisfied customers pointed out that it didn’t perform as well for their specific hair needs. Some users mentioned that the shampoo left their hair feeling too weighed down or that the color maintenance wasn’t as noticeable as advertised.
Overall Hair Health Improvement
90%
Several users reported an improvement in the overall health of their hair, noticing shinier, smoother strands with regular use. Many find that it helps reduce frizz and enhances manageability, making their hair feel healthier and more hydrated. Those with dry or damaged hair particularly appreciate the restorative qualities.
However, some individuals with oily or fine hair felt that the moisturizing properties of the shampoo were too rich, making their hair appear greasy more quickly than they expected. It seems better suited for those with drier hair types or those who use styling products regularly.

Suitable for:

This product is ideal for people with color-treated hair, especially those with red or auburn shades. Users who are looking for a sulfate-free shampoo to help maintain and refresh their vibrant red tones will benefit most from this formula. It’s also great for individuals with sensitive scalps or dry hair, as the gentle, moisturizing formula helps keep hair soft and hydrated without harsh chemicals. This shampoo is suitable for anyone wanting to keep their color looking fresh without frequent salon visits, as its color-depositing formula helps maintain vibrancy between treatments. Additionally, those seeking an ethical, cruelty-free product will appreciate the brand’s commitment to animal-free testing.

Not suitable for:

This shampoo may not be ideal for users with oily or fine hair, as its moisturizing properties could make hair feel heavy or greasy, especially if used daily. People who prefer a stronger fragrance might find the subtle scent too mild or quickly fading, which may be a drawback for those seeking a long-lasting scent. Additionally, those with very processed or severely faded hair might not experience the same level of color maintenance, as this product works best for maintaining mild fading rather than restoring very dull or highly faded red tones. Users expecting a thicker lather from their shampoo may also be disappointed, as the lack of sulfates results in a lighter foam that may not feel as rich.

Specifications

  • Size: The shampoo comes in a 12oz bottle, providing an ample amount for regular use.
  • Color-Depositing: This shampoo features a color-depositing formula that helps maintain and refresh red auburn tones.
  • Sulfate-Free: It is free from sulfates, making it suitable for those with sensitive or dry hair.
  • Paraben-Free: The shampoo is also paraben-free, ideal for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Cruelty-Free: This product is cruelty-free, adhering to ethical beauty standards and not tested on animals.
  • Moisturizing: The formula is designed to deeply moisturize hair, keeping it soft and hydrated.
  • Fragrance: It has a subtle fragrance that doesn’t overpower, making it suitable for daily use.
  • Hair Type Compatibility: Best for color-treated hair, especially those with red or auburn shades, but works well for other hair types as well.
  • Ideal Usage: This shampoo is ideal for maintaining hair color between salon visits, especially red tones.
  • Daily Use: Its gentle formula makes it safe for daily use without stripping hair of its natural oils.
  • Gentle Formula: The shampoo's gentle formula ensures it doesn’t strip the scalp or hair of moisture.
  • Vibrancy Maintenance: It helps maintain the vibrancy of red and auburn hair, preventing fading over time.
  • Ethical Standards: The shampoo is cruelty-free and adheres to high ethical beauty standards.
  • Packaging: The product comes in a standard 12oz plastic bottle, convenient for everyday use.
  • Color-Freshening: It refreshes red-toned colors, keeping hair looking freshly colored between salon visits.
  • Free From Harsh Chemicals: This shampoo avoids harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive scalps.
  • Hydration: The formula delivers moisture to color-treated hair, keeping it hydrated and healthy.
  • Vegan: This shampoo is vegan, containing no animal-derived ingredients.

FAQ

To use this shampoo, apply a generous amount to wet hair and gently lather. Massage into your scalp and hair, focusing on the red-toned areas. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a conditioner for added moisture and color protection. For best results, use regularly to maintain vibrancy.

This shampoo is specifically designed for color-treated hair, especially those with red or auburn shades. Its color-depositing formula helps maintain and refresh red tones, while being sulfate-free and paraben-free. It’s also cruelty-free, making it a great choice for ethical beauty enthusiasts.

Yes, this shampoo is sulfate-free and paraben-free, making it gentle for sensitive scalps. The mild formula helps avoid irritation, which is ideal for those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions.

You can use this shampoo daily or as often as needed, especially if you want to maintain the vibrancy of your red or auburn hair. The gentle formula makes it safe for daily use without stripping hair of its natural oils.

While this shampoo is excellent for maintaining red tones, it may not be as effective for restoring deeply faded or heavily processed hair. It works best for preserving color between salon visits, but you may need additional treatments for intense color revival.

This shampoo contains a color-depositing formula that helps replenish red tones. It is enriched with moisturizing ingredients that nourish hair and keep it soft, without sulfates or parabens, making it ideal for those with dry or sensitive hair.

The shampoo has a subtle scent that is not overpowering. Many users appreciate its light fragrance, making it suitable for those who prefer a mild, non-invasive scent in their haircare products.

Yes, this shampoo works well for curly hair. Its moisturizing formula helps hydrate curls, keeping them soft and defined without weighing them down. It's also gentle on textured hair, helping maintain color without causing dryness.

Absolutely! This shampoo pairs well with a variety of conditioners and styling products. For added moisture, you can follow with a sulfate-free conditioner, and use styling treatments to maintain hair texture and color vibrancy.

Generally, this shampoo is well-tolerated by most users due to its gentle, sulfate-free formula. However, if you have a very sensitive scalp, we recommend doing a patch test first to ensure compatibility. There have been no major side effects reported.