Beauty Redken Color Extend Magnetics Review: Pros, Cons, Verdict
Redken Color Extend Magnetics is the salon world's workhorse color shampoo, built around amino-ions that are attracted to the hair fiber to seal in color. It is sulfate-free, acidic, and priced in the mid salon tier. Stylists recommend it constantly, but does it deserve the hype?
We reviewed the formula, aggregated verified buyer feedback, and compared it against its biggest rivals. Here is what Color Extend Magnetics does well, where it falls short, and our verdict on who should buy it.
Key Takeaways
- Amino-ions and an acidic pH seal the cuticle to lock in color vibrancy.
- Lightweight formula suits fine to medium hair; very dry hair may want richer care.
- One of the best value picks in the salon color tier at at a fair price to.
Quick Answer: Top 3 Picks
- Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo, 10.1 Fl Oz The reviewed product: amino-ion color protection.
- Redken All Soft Shampoo, 10.1 oz Best Redken alternative for dry colored hair.
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo Best Redken pick for damaged colored hair.
Full reviews and comparisons below.
On This Page
Our Top Picks
Best for: Fine to medium color-treated hair
#1 Best OverallRedken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo, Sulfate-Free, 10.1 Fl Oz
- Sulfate-free color care with amino-ions
- Acidic formula balances pH to seal in color
- RCT Protein Complex targets root, core and tip
- Gently cleanses while enhancing vibrancy
Pros
- Top-rated salon color protection
- Lightweight, will not weigh down fine hair
- Pleasant camellia leaf scent
Cons
Best for: Dry, brittle color-treated hair
Runner-UpRedken All Soft Shampoo, 10.1 oz
- Argan oil deeply softens dry hair
- RCT Protein Complex nourishes
- Gentle cleanse for dry, brittle hair
- Color-safe formula
Pros
- Incredible softness
- Salon staple
- Great for dry color-treated hair
Cons
Best for: Damaged, bleached color-treated hair
Best ValueRedken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo
- Acidic pH formula with citric acid and bonding complex
- Strengthens weakened bonds, reduces breakage
- Sulfate-free, safe for color-treated hair
- Concentrated, thick consistency
Pros
- Visible strength improvement with regular use
- Great value in the 10.1 oz size
- Protects salon color from fading
Cons
The formula: amino-ions explained
Color Extend Magnetics uses amino-ions, positively charged amino acids that are magnetically attracted to the negatively charged hair fiber. This attraction helps the formula target the root, core, and tip of each strand through Redken's RCT Protein Complex. The acidic pH then seals the cuticle flat.
The formula also includes cranberry oil, citric acid, and glycerin for conditioning and shine. It is sulfate-free and lathers surprisingly well for a gentle formula. Compare this sealing approach with Biolage Colorlast's low-pH system, which pursues the same goal differently.
What buyers love, and what they do not
Verified buyers consistently praise the lightweight feel, the salon-like camellia scent, and genuinely longer-lasting color, especially on standard permanent shades. Fine-haired buyers love that it does not weigh hair down, and a 10.1 oz bottle lasts months since a little goes far.
Criticisms are consistent too: very dry or coarse hair finds it not moisturizing enough, the fragrance is strong for sensitive noses, and it will not rescue heavily damaged hair on its own. For damage plus color, repair shampoos for damaged color-treated hair are the better call.
Verdict: who should buy it
Buy it if you have fine to medium color-treated hair, want proven fade protection without weight, and like a fresh salon scent. It is one of the best value propositions in salon haircare: real technology at a mid-tier price.
Skip it if your hair is very dry, coarse, or heavily bleached, where richer formulas win, or if you are sensitive to fragrance. Pair it with the matching Magnetics conditioner for the full pH-sealed system. See more salon picks worth the price for alternatives.
How to Choose Within Your Budget
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo prices vary for 10.1 fl oz, with 33.8 oz salon sizes offering better value. Given its concentration, the monthly cost is at typical prices making it one of the most economical true salon formulas.
Final Thoughts
Redken Color Extend Magnetics earns its reputation: real amino-ion technology, genuinely lightweight, fairly priced for the salon tier. It is the best pick for fine to medium color-treated hair and a safe recommendation for most salon color. Very dry or damaged hair should look to richer Redken lines instead.
How We Test and Rank Products
We review salon formulas by analyzing the ingredient technology, aggregating verified buyer reviews across retailers, and comparing performance claims against reported results. Marketing without evidence does not survive our process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. It is formulated without SLS and SLES sulfates, using gentler cleansing agents that protect color. This also makes it suitable for keratin-treated hair and for followers of the Curly Girl Method.
It is one of the best salon options for fine color-treated hair. The formula is lightweight and will not weigh strands down, while the amino-ion system still delivers real fade protection. Use the matching conditioner lightly on the ends.
Most buyers report a 10.1 fl oz bottle lasting two to three months with regular use, since only a small amount is needed per wash. That brings the monthly cost in line with cheaper, less concentrated shampoos.
It protects red dye as well as any non-depositing shampoo, but red still fades faster than other shades. For reds, pair it with a weekly color-depositing treatment for the best longevity. See our red hair guide for the full routine.