Pureology Hydrate vs Hydrate Sheer (The Definitive Guide)

So, you've decided you want to try one of Pureology's cult-favorite, best-selling shampoos/conditioners, but you can't quite figure out what the differences are? We've all been there, don't worry!

Come with us as we compare the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo vs Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo (as well as their conditioners) side-by-side to help you decide which is right for you. Enjoy!

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Pureology Hydrate vs Hydrate Sheer Shampoo

With both shampoos appearing practically identical on the shelf with their signature purple branding, we're going to have to dive straight into their formulas to find any differences of note.

First and foremost, it's worth establishing the fact that since both shampoos are from the same range ("Hydrate"), they have therefore been designed with the exact same benefits in mind.

To be specific, they have both been formulated to deeply hydrate color-treated hair.

They are both completely free from nasties (such as sulfates) and they each contain a concentrated, nourishing combo of Green Tea (supports healthy hair growth), Jojoba (protects against dryness), and Sage (improves circulation to the scalp) which yields an addictingly touchable softness to the hair.

What's more is that they each contain Pureology's patented 'Antifade Complex' (including Sunflower Seed, a UV filter, and Vitamin E) to help protect color vibrancy, and an aromatherapy blend of Lavendar, Bergamot, and Patchouli.

That's a *lot* of similarities. The differences only come into play when we explore which hair types they are intended for.

While the Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo is a lightweight shampoo for fine, dry, color-treated hair, the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo is a slightly richer shampoo for normal-to-thick, dry, color-treated hair.

This becomes evident upon further inspection of their ingredients lists, with the Hydrate Shampoo boasting a much longer list (62) compared to the Hydrate Sheer Shampoo (41).

Among the extra 21 ingredients the Hydrate Shampoo contains is Rose Extract (reduces oiliness), Wheat Protein, Soy Protein, and Vegetable Protein. Each protein has a different molecular weight which aids in the penetration of the hair and ensures thorough damage & color protection for thicker hair types.

The Hydrate Sheer Shampoo instead only additionally contains Eucalyptus Leaf Extract (stimulates hair follicles), and only one protein ingredient—Wheat Protein—since it is important not to overload finer hair types with protein.

The similarities and differences are more or less the same when it comes to comparing the conditioners, too, with the Hydrate Sheer Conditioner being intended for fine hair types, and the Hydrate Conditioner being aimed at normal-to-thick hair types.