A fresh hair color is a brilliant way to revitalize your look, and locking in that perfect shade is crucial. While far more affordable than a new wardrobe, dyeing your hair still represents a valuable investment of time and money. That’s why protecting your color isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the key to making that investment last.
Many people mistakenly believe they must wait several days before washing newly dyed hair, but this is just a myth, according to hair-color specialist Sydney Palmer. She explains that hair color doesn’t ‘set’ any further after application, so there’s no need to avoid washing your hair for an extended period.
Despite this, it is widely advised to adhere to the 48-hour rule, not for the hair dye to set, but to protect the cuticle layer of your hair, which helps seal in the color. Jade Kromer, another hair-color expert from Juut Salon Spa, points out that the focus should be more on the products used rather than the timing between washes. Salons typically wash your hair post-coloring to ensure all residual dye is removed, sometimes even opting for a double wash to ensure thorough cleansing.
If your hair color is fading, the issue often lies with your washing routine itself, not how long you wait to wash. Hot water and certain shampoos can open your hair cuticles, which is how the color escapes because the cuticle traps it in each strand. Using cooler water helps keep the cuticle closed, preserving that vibrant color, as Palmer notes: ‘Warm water makes the cuticle more likely to open and let the color out, which is why color fades so fast.’
Maintaining that fresh-from-the-salon look doesn’t mean enduring frigid showers; a simple adjustment to lukewarm water and washing less frequently can make a significant difference. For those with bold fashion colors like pink, orange, or purple, Kromer advises washing only once a week, with dry shampoo, such as the Divi Dry Shampoo Spray, as a useful supplement.
If your color treatment includes highlights or lowlights, you may not need to be as stringent about water temperature since there’s less pigment involved. Beyond these practical steps, the products you use at home play a pivotal role in how long your color remains vibrant. Kromer warns against drugstore shampoos that might contain chemicals harmful to professional hair colors, like sulfates and parabens, which can strip the hair of its color.
Investing in high-quality hair care products can extend the life of your color and contribute to the overall health of your hair. Clarifying shampoos, while effective at cleansing the scalp, should be used sparingly since they can also strip hair color. By selecting the right products and adhering to recommended washing practices, you can significantly prolong the brilliance of your hair color.
While the initial 48 hours after dyeing might not impact color setting as once believed, they are vital for ensuring longevity and vibrancy. By understanding the role of hair cuticles and the effects of water temperature and product choice, anyone can maintain their new look with confidence.
Product on Amazon: Schwarzkopf Keratin Color Permanent Hair Color, 6.0 Delicate Praline, 1 Application-Professionally Inspired Permanent Hair Dye, for up to 80% Less Breakage vs Untreated Hair and up to 100% Gray Coverage
Price: $10.92
Rating: 4.6 with 10,200 ratings
Brand: Schwarzkopf
To keep your freshly dyed hair looking salon-fresh and vibrant, the right advice and products are crucial. If you’re aiming to maintain that beautiful hue, we’ve compiled expert insights to guide you. From understanding the importance of color-safe shampoos to making smart product choices and knowing when to consider touch-ups, we’re here to help.
Hair-color specialist Jade Kromer highlights that the shampoo, conditioner, and products you use at home are the primary factors determining how long your color lasts or fades. Investing in high-quality hair care is essential. While drugstore options may seem convenient, they often contain harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens that can strip your hair of its vibrant color, so it’s better to choose professional-grade, color-safe products.
Product on Amazon: Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Purifying Shampoo, Silicone-Free, 12.5 Fl Oz, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)
Price: $3.99
Rating: 4.9 with 19,572 ratings
Brand: Garnier
A common mistake many make is over-washing their hair, which can lead to color fading. Washing your hair too frequently, especially with hot water, opens up the hair cuticles and lets the color bleed out. To preserve your hair color, reduce the frequency of hair washes. For those who sport bold fashion colors, like pink or purple, Kromer suggests washing just once a week. In between washes, a product like Divi Dry Shampoo Spray can refresh your hair without stripping away the color.
It’s also important to consider the impact of water temperature on your hair. As Sydney Palmer advises, washing colored hair in cooler water helps keep the cuticle closed, trapping the color inside. If you’re not a fan of cold showers, lukewarm water can also help maintain the vibrancy of your color. In the case of highlights or lowlights, you’re in luck; less pigment means that the water temperature matters less, but it’s still beneficial to err on the side of cooler water.
Beyond selecting the right products and adjusting your washing habits, don’t overlook the benefit of hair masks to keep your color-treated hair nourished and shiny. Products like the Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Hair Mask or Shu Uemura’s Color Lustre Treatment Mask can be excellent additions to your hair care routine, providing essential moisture and an extra layer of protection for your hair color.
Product on Amazon: Olaplex No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Hair Mask, Adds Smoothness & Nourishes for Visibily Healthy Hair, For All Hair Types & Treats Damaged Hair, 3.3 fl oz
Price: $30
Rating: 4.7 with 12,855 ratings
Brand: Olaplex
Touch-ups are another aspect to consider when aiming for long-lasting color. Depending on the hair color and your natural hair growth, the frequency may vary. Consulting your hairstylist can provide you with a tailored plan for when to refresh your color to keep it looking its best.
Ultimately, maintaining your hair color involves making informed decisions about products and techniques that affect your hair. With the right approach, you can ensure your hair remains as stunning and vibrant as the day you left the salon. Embrace your new look with confidence, armed with the knowledge to keep your color looking fabulous.
