I'm a natural blonde, but even god-given hair color needs some enhancement to keep it from looking (in my case) mousey or dishwater-like. But lately I've realized that my trips to the salon are getting pricey (and I'm not quite brave enough to employ these DIY color tips just yet). Not to mention that I've clearly been reading too many trashy mags during my visits, which is why I'm up on "The Bachelor" gossip. So I've decided it's time to start protecting my investment with quality, color-protecting products.

In fact, from now on, when I travel I vow to always BMO shampoo and conditioner (I found some pretty sweet travel-sized products on this list of the 10 best beauty products for your next vaca) because hotel bathrooms never have color-safe options like these winners below. TotalBeauty.com readers gave us the lowdown on which conditioners extend the life of their colored hair, and helped them stretch their dollars. I'll share a few with you here (and take notes for myself!).

Garnier Fructis Fortifying Cream Conditioner for Color-treated or Highlighted Hair, $4.20

Readers say it heals damaged, color-treated hair by working to "keep moisture locked in, keep your color from fading, and literally taking out all tangles and frizzies." Another reader says, "I don't have to get colored as much." See what key ingredient helps remedy dry hair here (hint: it's a vegetable).

Kerastase Reflection Chroma Protect Polishing Cream, $40

"It, without a doubt, protects my hair from fading," as well as "provides excellent shine," says a reader. And for "anyone getting their hair color[ed], this is a requirement following your color." See why to use it before blow-drying

Pureology Hydrate Conditioner, $28.49

Readers enthusiastically agree: "NOTHING compares in maintaining color!" When it comes to protecting color-treated hair, readers rave about this conditioner that "repairs damaged hair while leaving it soft and shiny" "improves the texture of colored hair" and even "makes your $8 color look like a million bucks." See what it does for split ends here.

Pantene Pro-V Brunette Expressions Conditioner, $5.99

When color treatments make your hair "dry and lifeless," readers say this will "help strengthen and soften your hair" while bringing it back to its "rich and shiny" state. And there’s nothing like "the smell of nutmeg and dark chocolate" to make protecting your hair color, the most enjoyable experience on earth. See why other readers gush about Brunette Expressions.

There are more color-specific reviews on conditioners for brunettes, blondes (my interest is piqued) and red heads too.

• Feeling overwhelmed by all the hair care product choices? Take this quick quiz to find the best shampoo and conditioner for your hair.

• Don't color your hair? See which celebrities are rocking gray hairstyles and how to make it look chic on you too.

• Debating a color change? Follow this three-step plan to help you pick your best color.

• Keep up with the latest in beauty -- follow us on Twitter, add us on YouTube and friend us on Facebook.