If you’re battling flat, lifeless hair, Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo is your new best friend. This sulfate-free gem promises to lift fine, color-treated hair with lightweight volume and movement. I’ve been there—struggling with greasy, limp strands—and this shampoo transformed my routine.
In this article, I’ll share my honest experience, break down the pros and not-so-great parts, compare it to other brands, and give you maintenance tips to maximize its magic.
Trust me, your hair deserves this boost, so let’s get started!
My Experience With Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo
I have fine, wavy hair that’s long and dense but loves to go flat by lunchtime.
For years, I tried every drugstore shampoo under the sun, only to end up with greasy, stringy locks by day two.
Then I splurged on Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer.
The first time I used it, I was skeptical.
It didn’t lather like my old shampoos, which made me wonder if it was even working. But as I massaged the dime-sized amount into my scalp, I felt my roots lifting, like my hair was finally waking up.
After rinsing, my hair felt squeaky clean—not stripped, but refreshed. I paired it with the Pure Volume Conditioner, and as I combed through, my strands felt balanced, not weighed down. The real magic happened when I blow-dried.
My hair had this airy bounce I hadn’t seen in years. It looked thicker, moved with every step, and stayed grease-free for three days. I’m a Black woman with color-treated hair, and I was worried it might dry out my strands, but it didn’t.
Instead, it gave me volume that made heads turn. I’ve even skipped my flat iron a few times because the natural body was just that good.
The scent?
A dreamy mix of pink grapefruit, wild rose, and cedarwood. It’s like a spa day in a bottle, though I’ll admit it’s strong for sensitive noses. The price tag stung at first, but a little goes a long way, and the results are worth every penny. Now, I’m hooked, and my hair has never looked healthier or fuller.
Pros of Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo
- Lightweight Volume That Lasts
This shampoo delivers on its volumizing promise.
My fine hair, which usually falls flat by noon, stays lifted for days.
The wheat protein in the formula plumps each strand, giving the illusion of thicker hair without sticky residue.
Whether I air-dry or blow-dry, the bounce is real, and it doesn’t deflate even on humid days.
You’ll notice your hair moving freely, not clinging to your scalp like it’s given up.
- Sulfate-Free and Color-Safe
If you color your hair, you know the struggle of keeping it vibrant. Pureology’s sulfate-free formula, infused with their AntiFade Complex, protects my highlights from fading. I’ve used it for weeks, and my color still pops.
Plus, it’s vegan and free of parabens and mineral oils, so you’re not dumping harsh chemicals on your scalp. It’s gentle enough for daily use, which is a win for my sensitive skin.
- Clarifies Without Stripping
This shampoo is a clarifying champ. It washes away product buildup, sweat, and oil without leaving my hair feeling like straw. My scalp feels refreshed, and my roots look lifted right after rinsing.
Unlike some clarifying shampoos that leave my ends parched, this one keeps things balanced, especially when paired with the conditioner. You get that clean feeling without sacrificing moisture.
- A Little Goes a Long Way
You only need a dime-sized amount, which makes the bottle last forever. I was shocked at how little I needed to get a good lather once I worked it into my scalp. For someone who’s frugal, this is a huge plus.
The 9-ounce bottle has lasted me months, even with washing every three days. Your wallet will thank you in the long run.
- Luxurious Aromatherapy Experience
The scent is a standout. The blend of pink grapefruit, wild rose, and cedarwood feels like a high-end perfume. Every wash is a mini spa moment, and the fragrance lingers subtly in my hair.
It’s not overpowering for me, but it’s noticeable enough to make you feel pampered. You’ll look forward to washing your hair just to soak in the aroma.
Not-So-Good Parts of Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo
- Pricey for Budget Shoppers
Let’s be real: this shampoo isn’t cheap.
At around $30 for a 9-ounce bottle, it’s a splurge compared to drugstore brands.
I felt the pinch when I first bought it, and if you’re on a tight budget, it might feel like a luxury you can’t justify.
While the quality justifies the cost for me, it’s a hurdle for some.
You’re paying for premium ingredients, but it’s still a commitment.
- Can Feel Drying for Some
While I didn’t find it drying, I’ve heard from friends with super fine or dry hair that it can leave their strands feeling stripped if they don’t follow with a rich conditioner.
The clarifying nature is great for oily scalps, but if your hair is already parched, you might need to alternate with a hydrating shampoo or double down on conditioning. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
- Weak Lather May Surprise You
If you’re used to foamy shampoos, the low lather can be a shock. I was thrown off at first because it felt like it wasn’t cleaning.
You have to trust the process and massage it in to see results. For some, this lack of suds makes it hard to feel like you’re getting a deep clean, even though the results prove otherwise.
- Strong Scent for Sensitive Noses
That luxurious scent I love? It’s not for everyone. If you’re sensitive to fragrances, the grapefruit-rose-cedarwood blend might be too much. One friend said it gave her a headache, and I’ve read reviews where people found it lingered too long. You might want to test it in-store if scents bother you.
Comparison of Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo With Other Volumizing Shampoos
I’ve tested Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo against other big names in the volumizing game: Redken Volume Injection, Biolage Volume Bloom, and OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen.
If you’re wondering how Pureology stacks up, here’s the real talk. I’m pitting each brand against Pureology to see who comes out on top for fine, flat, color-treated hair like mine. Let’s get into it!
- Pureology Pure Volume Vs. Redken Volume Injection
Pureology and Redken Volume Injection both promise sky-high volume for fine hair, but they’re not twins.
Pureology’s sulfate-free formula, with wheat protein and AntiFade Complex, gives me lightweight lift that lasts three days.
My highlights stay vibrant, and my scalp feels squeaky clean without dryness.
The pink grapefruit-rose-cedarwood scent is a luxe vibe, like a spa in a bottle.
Redken, priced at about $20 for 10 ounces, is also sulfate-free and uses cotton extract for volume.
It lifts well, but by day two, I notice a slight residue that weighs my hair down, making it feel less fresh. Its clean, slightly floral scent is pleasant but forgettable compared to Pureology’s aromatherapy glow.
Redken’s a solid choice if you want to save a few bucks, and it’s great for straight hair needing a quick boost. But Pureology wins for oily scalps and color protection—my blonde stays brighter longer.
If you’re torn, Redken’s easier on the wallet, but Pureology’s clarifying power and staying power make it my go-to. You get what you pay for, and Pureology’s $30 price tag feels worth it for the salon-quality results.
- Pureology Pure Volume Vs. Biolage Volume Bloom
Next up, Biolage Volume Bloom, a fan favorite for fine hair, goes head-to-head with Pureology. Biolage, at around $18 for 13.5 ounces, is a steal. Its formula, with soy protein and cotton flower extract, plumps strands and adds softness.
It’s vegan and paraben-free, like Pureology, and my hair feels silky after washing. But the volume? It’s gone by the end of day one, and my oily scalp starts acting up faster. The herbal, slightly sweet scent is nice but fades quickly, unlike Pureology’s lingering citrus-rose magic.
Pureology’s wheat protein and clarifying action keep my hair lifted and grease-free for days, which Biolage can’t match. My color-treated hair also feels safer with Pureology’s AntiFade Complex—Biolage doesn’t emphasize color care as much.
If you have dry hair and wash less often, Biolage’s softness might appeal to you. But for me, Pureology’s longer-lasting bounce and deeper clean make it the champ. You’ll love Biolage if budget’s key, but Pureology’s performance justifies the splurge if you want volume that sticks around.
- Pureology Pure Volume Vs. OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen
Finally, let’s talk about the budget darling, OGX Thick & Full + Biotin & Collagen, priced at just $8 for 13 ounces.
OGX packs biotin and collagen to thicken hair, and it’s sulfate-free, which is great for my color.
It leaves my hair soft, but the volume is underwhelming—my strands fall flat by midday.
The heavy, tropical-coconut scent is cloying and lingers in a way that feels cheap compared to Pureology’s sophisticated grapefruit-rose-cedarwood blend.
Plus, OGX doesn’t clarify as well, so my scalp feels greasier sooner.
Pureology’s lightweight formula and clarifying power blow OGX out of the water. My hair looks thicker and moves freely with Pureology, while OGX feels like it’s just coating my strands.
If you’re pinching pennies, OGX is a decent starter, but it’s not in the same league for color protection or lasting volume. Pureology’s $30 price stings, but a dime-sized amount lasts months, making it a better long-term investment. If you want hair that turns heads, Pureology’s your pick.
Tips For Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo
- Pair with the Right Conditioner: To get the most out of this shampoo, use Pureology Pure Volume Conditioner. It’s lightweight and won’t flatten your hair. Apply it only to your mid-lengths and ends to avoid weighing down your roots. I leave it on for 1-2 minutes before rinsing to lock in moisture without sacrificing volume. If your hair is dry, you can alternate with a heavier conditioner like Pureology Hydrate for extra hydration.
- Use Sparingly for Best Results: Less is more with this shampoo. Stick to a dime-sized amount, even if you have long hair. I made the mistake of using too much at first, and it was overkill. Focus on your scalp, massaging with your fingertips to lift roots and clear buildup. Working it through to the ends ensures even cleaning without stripping. This technique stretches the bottle and maximizes volume.
- Alternate with a Hydrating Shampoo: If your hair leans dry, don’t use Pure Volume every wash. I alternate with Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo every third wash to keep my ends from feeling brittle. This keeps my scalp clean and my strands soft. You can experiment to find your rhythm, but twice a week with Pure Volume is usually enough for oily scalps, less for dry ones.
- Follow with Volumizing Stylers: To amplify the volume, use a styling product like Pureology Style + Protect Instant Levitation Mist. I spritz it on damp roots before blow-drying for extra lift that lasts. A lightweight mousse works too, but avoid heavy serums that can flatten your hair. Round-brush blow-drying also boosts the bounce, giving you that salon-fresh look.
- Clean Your Scalp Regularly: Since this shampoo clarifies, it’s great for removing buildup, but you still need to keep your scalp healthy. I use a scalp brush once a week while shampooing to exfoliate and stimulate my roots. This enhances the shampoo’s lifting effect and keeps your hair looking fuller. Also, rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that can dull your volume.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The “best” Pureology product depends on your hair needs, but Pure Volume Shampoo is a standout for fine, flat, color-treated hair. Its volumizing power, color protection, and lightweight formula make it a favorite for many, including me. If hydration is your goal, Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is a close contender for dry hair. Try samples to find your perfect match.
It’s a luxurious blend of pink grapefruit, wild rose, and cedarwood. Think citrusy freshness with floral and woody undertones—like a high-end spa treatment. The scent is invigorating but can be strong, so if you’re sensitive to fragrances, test it first.
Yes, it’s 100% sulfate-free. This makes it gentle on color-treated hair and sensitive scalps while still cleansing effectively. It’s also vegan, paraben-free, and mineral oil-free, so you’re getting a clean, high-quality formula.
Yes, it has clarifying properties, removing buildup from products, oil, and sweat. It cleans deeply without stripping, thanks to its sulfate-free formula. If you have dry hair, pair it with a conditioner to maintain moisture, as it can feel intense on its own.
Conclusion: Your Hair Deserves Pureology Pure Volume
Pureology Pure Volume Shampoo is a must-try for anyone with fine, flat, or color-treated hair. It’s transformed my limp strands into voluminous, vibrant locks that move with me. Despite the price, its long-lasting bottle and salon-quality results make it worth every cent.
From the uplifting scent to the clarifying clean, it’s a game-changer. Grab a bottle, follow my tips, and watch your hair come alive. You won’t look back!