If your hair is processed, that is, permed or straightened, your hair is more susceptible to damage from drying and styling. Definitely use pre-styling products that protect the hair from thermal damage but you have to get more basic with your hair care, starting with your shampoo.

A mild shampoo is a must. You can try different shampoos in different price ranges. Salon shampoos are great but pricey; try one of the shampoos for colored and processed hair available at the drug or department store. Follow it up with an extra-moisturizing conditioner for colored hair. These products contain ingredients to protect and preserve hair color. Because your hair is more likely to be dry near the ends, concentrate conditioner in that area. Scalp hair may get oily if you use too much conditioner.

Finally, try washing your hair less often, say every other day instead of every day. Let it have a break occasionally from styling as well.

Our pick for price and quality is L’Oreal Vive Pro Color Shampoo. It contains UV filters to protect from sun-fading of your hair color and promises 45% more color rentention.