Just like blondes, brunettes, and redheads, those with gray hair — whether it be natural or color-treated — have a unique set of concerns that are the focus of their hair care routine. And the first step to maintaining soft, shiny strands, is employing the best shampoos for gray hair.

“As hair turns gray, it often becomes coarser and rougher. This happens because the body stops producing melanin, and hair follicles produce less sebum, leading to drier, more wiry hair,” explains Richy Kandasamy, vice president color development & R+COLOR collective member.

To keep your silver hair glossy and vibrant, Kandasamy says to look for a shampoo with the following ingredients. “For gray hair, use shampoos with purple or blue pigments to neutralize yellow tones,” he shares. “Hydration is [also] key, so look for glycerin, aloe vera, and oils to keep it smooth. Always choose sulfate-free formulas to protect moisture and avoid stripping natural oils.” Additionally, formulas that offer UV protection will also help prevent fading and brassiness, while charcoal will gently help remove buildup when your strands need a reset with a clarifying shampoo.

If you’re in the process of transitioning to full-on gray hair, Kandasamy recommends a sulfate-free shampoo to “protect [the] dyed sections and nourish new gray hair growth.” During this process, you might notice your hair has different textures (the gray strands could be more wiry, for example), so he says to use a hydrating formula with keratin and oils to keep both textures strong and smooth.

Ahead, you’ll find the 10 best shampoos for softer, shinier, and brighter gray strands. A future of good hair days starts here.

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