Biolage Color Last Shampoo

A robust sulfate-based cleanser formulated with dimethicone for smoothing and UV filters for environmental protection.

Performance Rating: 4.2

This formulation relies on the classic and highly effective combination of Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Coco-betaine. This duo ensures a rich lather and deep cleansing capability. The inclusion of Dimethicone, a silicone, alongside Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, provides excellent slip, detangling, and smoothing effects, effectively combating frizz. Glycol distearate adds a pearlescent texture, and Soybean oil offers emollient properties. It is a high-performing formula for standard hair types looking for smoothness and cleanliness, though potentially too stripping for very dry or curly hair due to the sulfates.

Safety Rating: 3.2

The safety profile is moderate. While SLES is milder than SLS, it can still be irritating to sensitive skin and eyes. The most significant safety concern is the high concentration of specific fragrance allergens (Limonene, Hexyl cinnamal, Coumarin, Benzyl alcohol, Linalool, Amyl cinnamal), which poses a risk for individuals with contact dermatitis or scent sensitivities. Salicylic acid is a useful exfoliant but should be noted for those with aspirin sensitivities. Sodium benzoate is a safe, food-grade preservative.

Final Rating: 3.7

This is a quintessential mass-market commercial shampoo designed for cosmetic elegance and efficacy. It scores high on performance because it effectively cleans and smooths hair using a proven surfactant-silicone system. However, the rating is tempered by the inclusion of ethoxylated ingredients and a significant number of potential allergens, making it less suitable for those prioritizing natural ingredients or those with sensitive scalps.

Verdict

This formulation represents a quintessential drugstore shampoo profile, balancing heavy-duty cleansing agents with cosmetic smoothing ingredients. At its core, the product relies on Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) combined with Coco-Betaine. This duo creates a rich, satisfying foam that effectively removes dirt, sebum, and product buildup. While SLES is less irritating than Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), it is still a powerful detergent that leaves the scalp feeling thoroughly clean, making it an excellent choice for those who struggle with oily roots or use heavy styling waxes and sprays. To counteract the potential stripping nature of the sulfates, the formula incorporates a significant amount of Dimethicone. This silicone wraps around the hair shaft to fill in porosity, lock in moisture, and provide immediate slip. For users with unruly, frizzy, or tangling hair, this ingredient is the heavy lifter that results in that silky, manageable feel post-shower. Additionally, the inclusion of Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride aids in reducing static and improving wet combing. One interesting addition is Ethylhexyl Salicylate, a UV absorber that can help protect hair integrity and color from sun damage, although it is not a substitute for a dedicated heat protectant. Glycine Soja Oil (Soybean Oil) is present but appears low on the ingredient list, suggesting its role is likely supportive rather than a primary moisturizer. Ideally, this shampoo is best suited for resilient hair types that need a deep clean followed by synthetic smoothing. However, consumers should be wary of the potential for silicone buildup over time, which can weigh hair down if not alternated with a clarifying routine. Furthermore, the extensive list of fragrance allergens, including Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Coumarin, and Linalool, indicates a strong scent profile that might trigger contact dermatitis in those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions like eczema. Ultimately, it is a functional, smoothing cleanser for robust hair types but perhaps too harsh or sensitizing for delicate, dry, or curly textures.

Who Is This Product For?

Oily scalps needing a deep clean
Frizzy hair requiring smoothing
People who use heavy styling products
Standard straight or wavy hair

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Curly Girl Method followers
People with sensitive scalps or fragrance allergies
Extremely dry or damaged hair
Color-treated hair prone to rapid fading

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Solvents / 溶剂

🧪 Aqua / water / eau / 水

Purpose: Base solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: The primary liquid base for the shampoo.

🧪 Hexylene glycol / 己二醇

Purpose: Solvent, viscosity decreasing agent

Concerns: Low risk of irritation

Notes: Helps to thin out the formula and improve texture.

📁 Surfactants (Cleansing Agents) / 表面活性剂（清洁剂）

🧪 Sodium laureth sulfate / 月桂醇聚醚硫酸酯钠

Purpose: Primary surfactant, cleanser, foaming agent

Concerns: Can be drying or irritating to sensitive skin; often confused with SLS but is generally milder

Notes: Provides the main lathering effect.

🧪 Coco-betaine / 椰油酰基甜菜碱

Purpose: Amphoteric surfactant, foam booster

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Mild co-surfactant derived from coconut oil, helps reduce irritation from sulfates.

🧪 Cocamide MIPA / 椰油酰胺 MIPA

Purpose: Surfactant, foam booster, viscosity builder

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Helps create a creamy foam structure.

📁 Conditioning Agents & Emollients / 调理剂与柔润剂

🧪 Dimethicone / 聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Silicone conditioning agent

Concerns: Can cause buildup on hair if not washed out properly

Notes: Smoothes the hair cuticle and adds shine.

🧪 Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride / 瓜儿胶羟丙基三甲基氯化铵

Purpose: Antistatic agent, hair conditioning

Concerns: None generally

Notes: A cationic polymer that helps detangle hair.

🧪 Glycine soja oil / soybean oil / 野大豆油

Purpose: Emollient, antioxidant

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Natural oil that provides moisture and shine.

📁 Thickeners & Texture Modifiers / 增稠剂与质地调节剂

🧪 Sodium chloride / 氯化钠

Purpose: Thickening agent

Concerns: Can be drying in very high concentrations

Notes: Common table salt, used to adjust viscosity.

🧪 Glycol distearate / 二硬脂酸乙二醇酯

Purpose: Pearlizing agent, opacifier

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Gives the shampoo a pearlescent, shiny appearance.

🧪 Carbomer / 卡波姆

Purpose: Viscosity controller, emulsion stabilizer

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Helps suspend ingredients and control the flow of the product.

📁 pH Adjusters & Scalp Care / 酸碱调节与头皮护理

🧪 Citric acid / 柠檬酸

Purpose: pH adjuster

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Derived from citrus, used to ensure the shampoo pH is skin-friendly.

🧪 Sodium hydroxide / 氢氧化钠

Purpose: pH adjuster

Concerns: Highly caustic in pure form but safe in regulated small amounts for pH balancing

Notes: Used to neutralize acids.

🧪 Salicylic acid / 水杨酸

Purpose: Exfoliant, anti-dandruff agent, preservative

Concerns: Can be drying; not recommended for children under 3 in large amounts

Notes: Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that helps clear scalp buildup.

🧪 Fumaric acid / 富马酸

Purpose: pH adjuster, acidulant

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Helps maintain the stability of the formula.

📁 Preservatives / 防腐剂

🧪 Sodium benzoate / 苯甲酸钠

Purpose: Preservative

Concerns: None generally

Notes: Prevents bacterial and fungal growth.

🧪 Benzyl alcohol / 苯甲醇

Purpose: Preservative, solvent

Concerns: Potential allergen for sensitive skin

Notes: Also a component of some fragrances.

📁 Fragrance & Allergens / 香精与致敏原

🧪 Parfum / fragrance / 香精

Purpose: Scent

Concerns: Common cause of contact dermatitis for sensitive individuals

Notes: A blend of aroma chemicals.

🧪 Limonene / 柠檬烯

Purpose: Fragrance component