
Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo For Very Dry and Color Treated Hair, Renews Softness & Shine, Sulfate Free & Vegan
Rich, transformative sulfate free shampoo that renews softness, manageability, and shine to cleanse dull, coarse, brittle, or very dry color treated hair
★★★★★
$50
Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo The Gold Standard for Very Dry Hair
Hair ages. Just like skin, our hair undergoes significant changes over time. It can become brittle, wiry, dull, and significantly drier. Combined with the stress of coloring, heat styling, and environmental exposure, hair can eventually reach a breaking point where standard moisturizing shampoos simply stop working. This is the moment to upgrade your regimen. Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo represents the pinnacle of professional haircare luxury. It is a transformative, restorative formula designed specifically for very dry, color-treated, and aging hair.
This comprehensive guide serves as your definitive resource for Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo. We will peel back the layers of this premium “gold” formula, examining how ingredients like Golden Marula Oil and Keravis work to reverse signs of damage. From understanding its rich, concentrated texture to mastering the application for salon-worthy results, this page provides the deep-dive expertise you need to restore your hair’s youthful movement, softness, and luster.
Key Features and Benefits The Pinnacle of Luxury Care
Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo is often referred to as the “Gold Standard” within the brand’s portfolio. It is the richest, most creamy formula they offer, designed to tackle the toughest cases of dryness and dullness.
Restorative Transformation
The primary benefit of Nanoworks Gold is its ability to radically change hair texture. It targets strands that feel rough or “crispy” and transforms them into silk.
- Renewed Softness: It instills a cashmere-like softness to even the coarsest, most brittle hair types.
- Brilliant Shine: Dullness is often a result of a rough hair cuticle. This shampoo smooths the surface to reflect light, restoring a healthy, youthful gloss.
Anti-Aging for Hair
While often marketed for “very dry” hair, this formula is an anti-aging powerhouse. As hair grays or ages, the texture changes—often becoming coarser and more resistant to moisture.
- Manageability: It tames unruly, wiry grays, making them supple and easier to style.
- Elasticity: It restores the bounce and resilience that older or heavily processed hair often loses.
Zero Sulfate Technology
Harsh detergents can be disastrous for already dry hair. Pureology signature Zero Sulfate formula uses an ultra-gentle cleansing system derived from coconut, corn, and sugar.
- Creamy Lather: Despite being sulfate-free, it produces a dense, rich foam that feels like a moisturizing cream in your hands.
- Lipid Preservation: It cleanses without stripping away the vital natural oils that dry hair desperately needs to retain.
Unrivaled Color Protection
For those investing in color whether covering gray or maintaining a vibrant fashion shade protection is non-negotiable.
- AntiFade Complex: This exclusive blend of antioxidants and full-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreens protects color vibrancy.
- Prevents Oxidation: It shields hair from environmental stressors that cause color to fade or turn brassy.

100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free
Pureology maintains its commitment to ethical beauty standards.
- Clean Formula: 100% vegan with no animal products or by-products.
- Ethical Stance: Certified cruelty-free, ensuring no animal testing.
Opulent Aromatherapy
The sensory experience matches the premium performance. The scent profile features Dewy Pear, Ylang Ylang, and Golden Amber, creating a warm, sophisticated, and indulgent fragrance that lingers beautifully.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Golden Marula Oil | Provides intense, lightweight moisture and softness. |
| Keravis Protein | Strengthens the hair fiber and improves elasticity. |
| ZeroSulfate® Formula | Gently cleanses without stripping moisture or color. |
| AntiFade Complex® | Prevents color fading and protects against UV damage. |
| Rich Concentration | A dense formula requiring only a small amount per use. |
How It Works: The Science of Nanoworks
Why is this shampoo different from a standard moisturizing product? The secret lies in the name “Nanoworks.” It refers to the advanced delivery system and the molecular weight of the ingredients.
Deep Penetration vs. Surface Coating
Many shampoos for dry hair rely on heavy silicones or waxes that sit on top of the hair shaft. While this mimics smoothness, it can mask underlying damage and weigh hair down. Nanoworks Gold utilizes ingredients with a smaller molecular size. This allows the restorative agents to penetrate deep into the cortex of the hair fiber rather than just coating the cuticle. This internal repair is what makes the hair feel structurally healthier and softer, not just slippery.
Balancing Strength and Moisture
Very dry hair is usually weak hair. However, adding too much protein can make dry hair brittle (protein overload), while adding too much oil can make it greasy. Nanoworks Gold strikes a precise balance.
- The Moisture: Golden Marula Oil provides lipid replenishment, mimicking the natural oils a healthy scalp produces.
- The Strength: Plant-based protein (Keravis) reinforces the hair structure.
By delivering these simultaneously, the shampoo restores the hair’s “hydro-lipid balance,” ensuring it is strong enough to resist breakage but soft enough to have movement.
The Cuticle-Sealing Action
Dull hair absorbs light; shiny hair reflects it. The damage on dry hair causes the cuticle scales to lift and fray. Nanoworks Gold works to smooth these scales back down. The antioxidants in the formula also neutralize free radicals that degrade the cuticle. A smooth, sealed cuticle locks in the moisture and color, resulting in that signature “glass hair” shine.
Ingredients: The Gold Standard Blend
Pureology Nanoworks Gold relies on a potent mix of exotic oils and scientifically advanced proteins to deliver its transformative results.
Key Active Ingredients
- Golden Marula Oil: Harvested from the nut of the Marula fruit, this oil is a super-hydrator. It is rich in oleic acid, essential antioxidants, and Vitamin C and E. Unlike heavier oils, Marula absorbs quickly and deeply, providing intense nourishment without the heavy, greasy residue associated with oils like castor or heavy shea butter.
- Keravis (Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein): A multifaceted protein complex. It is unique because it can penetrate the hair cuticle to build strength from within while also forming a protective film on the surface. This dual action significantly increases the tensile strength of the hair, preventing the snapping and breakage common in dry hair.
- Shea Butter: A classic emollient known for its deep conditioning properties. In this formula, it supports the Marula oil to seal in moisture and soothe the scalp.
- Green Tea Extract: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect the hair and scalp from environmental aging factors. It supports the health of the follicle.
- Sunflower Seed Oil: A vital part of the AntiFade Complex®. It acts as a natural UV filter and prevents color oxidation, keeping your shade rich and vibrant.
- Vitamin E (Tocopherol): A reparative antioxidant that helps to heal the scalp and improve the elasticity of the hair strands.
What Is Excluded?
- Sulfates (SLS/SLES): No harsh detergents that strip essential oils.
- Animal Ingredients: 100% Vegan.
- Parabens: Formulated without common synthetic preservatives.
- Mineral Oil: No cheap petrochemical fillers.


Who Should Use Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo?
Nanoworks Gold is a specialized, high-performance product. It is the most conditioning shampoo in the Pureology line. Because it is so rich, it is not for everyone.
The Ideal Candidate Profile
- Very Dry, Dull Hair: If your hair feels like straw, lacks shine, or makes a crunching sound when you touch it, you need this level of moisture.
- Aging or Gray Hair: As hair loses pigment (goes gray), the texture often changes, becoming wiry, coarse, and unruly. This shampoo softens that specific texture better than almost anything else on the market.
- Coarse or Thick Texture: If you have thick, thirsty strands that drink up product, this rich formula will provide the hydration you crave.
- Chemically Distressed Hair: If you have subjected your hair to extreme chemical processing (double-process blonde, relaxers, perms) that has left it brittle and dry, the restorative properties here are essential.
- Color-Treated Hair: Specifically for those who feel their color fades quickly due to hair porosity.
Who Should Approach with Caution?
- Very Fine, Thin Hair: This formula is incredibly rich. While it can be used on fine hair that is severely damaged, it has the potential to weigh down healthy fine hair. If you have fine dry hair, consider Pureology Hydrate Sheer instead.
- Oily Scalp: If you struggle with greasy roots by the end of the day, Nanoworks Gold might be too moisturizing for your scalp. You could use it on your mid-lengths and ends, or opt for a lighter shampoo.
How to Use: A Ritual for Radiance
Because Nanoworks Gold is so concentrated, the application technique is slightly different from drugstore shampoos. Following these steps ensures you get the benefits without wasting product.
Step 1: Soak and Warm
Thoroughly wet your hair with warm water. Warm water helps to open the cuticle slightly, preparing it to receive the nutrients.
Step 2: The “Dime” Rule
Pureology formulas are concentrated, and Nanoworks is the most concentrated of them all. Start with a dime-sized amount (for short/medium hair) or a quarter-sized amount (for long/thick hair). Do not pour a handful.
Step 3: Emulsify First
Rub the shampoo between your palms. You will notice it is thick and golden. Rub until it turns into a creamy white lather before applying it to your head. This activates the ingredients and ensures even distribution.
Step 4: Scalp Focus
Apply the lather to your scalp. Massage gently using the pads of your fingers. Focus on cleansing the scalp; do not ball up your hair and scrub the ends. The rich foam will gently cleanse the drier ends as you rinse.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Because the formula is rich in oils and butters, it requires a thorough rinse. Rinse until the water runs clear and you no longer feel a slippery residue on the scalp.
Step 6: Follow with Nanoworks Gold Conditioner
For the full restorative effect, follow with the matching conditioner. Apply it to the mid-lengths and ends and leave it on for 2-5 minutes to allow the Marula Oil to penetrate deeply.
Why Choose Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo Over Competitors?
At a premium price point, Nanoworks Gold is an investment. Why is it worth choosing over other luxury or “repair” shampoos?
Unmatched Concentration
A bottle of Nanoworks Gold lasts significantly longer than standard shampoos. Because you use so little per wash, the cost-per-use becomes much more reasonable. Many users find a single bottle lasts them 3 to 6 months.
The “Youth” Factor
Most repair shampoos focus only on breakage. Nanoworks Gold focuses on the texture of aging hair. It is one of the few products that successfully softens coarse, wiry gray hair without relying on heavy silicones that eventually dry the hair out further.
Color Safety Guarantee
Many “intense moisture” shampoos are not color-safe. They can be heavy or contain ingredients that strip toner. Pureology is the authority on color care. You get the deep moisture of a hair mask with the color protection of a specialized shampoo.
Immediate Results
This isn’t a product where you have to wait a month to see a difference. Most users report a tangible difference in softness, slip, and shine after the very first wash.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Pureology Nanoworks Gold | Drugstore “Repair” Shampoo | Luxury Oil-Based Shampoo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Renew Softness & Shine | Stop Breakage | Add Shine |
| Key Ingredient | Golden Marula Oil & Keravis | Keratin / Silicones | Argan or Coconut Oil |
| Concentration | Very High | Low (Watery) | Moderate |
| Vegan? | Yes | Rarely | Varies |
| For Aging Hair? | Specifically Targeted | No | Sometimes |
| Color Protection | High (AntiFade Complex) | Low | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Nanoworks Gold better than the original Hydrate shampoo?
“Better” depends on your hair type.
- Hydrate (Purple): For medium-thick dry hair. It’s a great daily moisture shampoo.
- Nanoworks Gold (Gold): For very dry, coarse, or aging hair. It is richer, more restorative, and more anti-aging focused than Hydrate. If Hydrate isn’t moisturizing enough for you, upgrade to Nanoworks.
2. Will this weigh down my hair?
It is a rich formula. If you have fine or thin hair, yes, it might be too heavy for daily use. For coarse, thick, or very dry hair, it absorbs beautifully and restores movement rather than weighing it down.
3. Is it safe for keratin-treated hair?
Yes. It is sulfate-free and sodium chloride-free, making it compatible with most keratin smoothing treatments. In fact, its smoothing properties complement keratin treatments well.
4. Why is the price higher than other Pureology shampoos?
Nanoworks Gold is the brand’s premier “prestige” line. It uses more expensive, higher-quality ingredients (like Golden Marula Oil) and has a more advanced, concentrated delivery system than the core lines.
5. Does it help with hair growth?
It does not stimulate growth at the follicle level. However, by preventing breakage and keeping the hair shaft flexible and strong, it helps you retain the length you have, allowing hair to grow longer without snapping.
6. Can I use this on extensions?
Yes, it is excellent for human hair extensions, which often lack natural oils from the scalp and become dry over time. It restores softness to extensions, extending their lifespan.
7. What does the scent smell like?
It is a departure from the minty/herbal scents of other Pureology lines. It is a warm, floral-amber scent with notes of Pear and Ylang Ylang. It is often described as smelling like a high-end perfume.
Buying Guide: Authentic Luxury
When purchasing luxury haircare, authenticity is paramount. Counterfeit products can be diluted or contain harmful fillers.
Where to Buy
- Authorized Salons: The best place to buy. Your stylist can assess your hair to ensure Nanoworks is the right match.
- Official Website: Pureology.com guarantees 100% fresh, authentic product.
- Authorized Retailers: Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and major salon-supply e-commerce sites are safe.
- Avoid: Unauthorized sellers on Amazon, eBay, or discount stores (like TJ Maxx). These products are often diverted, expired, or tampered with.
Available Sizes
- Travel Size (1.7 oz / 50 mL): A lower-cost entry point to try the product before investing in the full size. Perfect for travel.
- Standard Size (9 oz / 266 mL): The standard shower bottle.
- Liter Size (33.8 oz / 1 L): The smart investment. Once you fall in love with the product, the liter size offers the best value per ounce and comes with a pump for easy dispensing.
Identifying Authenticity
- Packaging: The bottle should be a distinct, pearlescent gold color. Text should be crisp and clear.
- Batch Code: Look for a code printed on the back or bottom of the bottle.
- Texture: The shampoo inside should be thick, creamy, and golden-yellow, not watery or clear.
Conclusion: Transform Your Hair into Gold
Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo is more than a cleansing product; it is a resurrection for your hair. It answers the call of very dry, aging, and brittle strands that have stopped responding to ordinary care. By fusing the richness of Golden Marula Oil with the structural integrity of plant-based proteins, it accomplishes the rare feat of making hair stronger and softer simultaneously.
If you are tired of dullness, roughness, and unmanageable texture, it is time to upgrade your routine. Experience the difference of the Gold Standard. Restore your hair’s youthful shine, touchable softness, and vibrant color with the ultimate in luxury haircare.
Ready to revive your hair? Shop Pureology Nanoworks Gold Shampoo today and experience the transformation.

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