The dyeing process can damage hair, leaving tresses dull and dry. With a little extra attention, color-treated hair can stay healthy and vibrant-looking longer. Follow these 8 dos and don’ts for taking care of color-treated hair.
Do...
- Invest in color-enhancing hair products. Ammonia-free products specifically designed for color-treated hair will make color appear brighter and shinier. These products are made to treat and protect hair that is left weak from dye.
- Condition your color. Use conditioner every time you shampoo, and don’t rinse it out until the end of your shower – the steam will help the conditioner penetrate deeper into your hair. Seal your new color by applying leave-in conditioner and sleeping with hair wrapped, and try a hot-oil deep conditioner once a week to keep hair soft and supple.
- Use the right hair brush. A great brush can prevent fading and promote shine in your hair. For a sleek style, use a paddle brush. If you have layers and want volume, go for a round natural bristle brush.
- Protect your hair from the sun. UV rays fade hair color and dehydrate strands – even during winter months. Shampoos, glazes, and conditioners with SPF can help protect hair from sun damage year-round. Some brands even include a mix of vitamins A, C, and E, which help restore hair and prevent further damage.
Don't...
- Shampoo too often. Shampooing twice a week is recommended, although those with oily or fine hair can shampoo up to every other day. Avoid clarifying shampoos altogether, as their cleansing agents can strip hair of dye pigments.
- Use too much hairspray. Hairspray strips the sheen from hair, so try to avoid it. If you need the hold, follow it with some shine serum.
- Drown your hair. Research suggests that up to 80% of color fade is caused by water alone. Once you shampoo and condition in the shower, avoid letting the water run over your hair. When you do rinse, use lukewarm or cool water—hot water can cause color loss.
- Overheat. High heat can cause dull color by making the hair cuticles rough. If you can’t air dry, a tourmaline and ceramic grill blow dryer can help smooth cuticles without the damage. Flat irons can dry out hair, so use heat-protective products like sprays and serums to prevent damage.
Quick At-Home Tip:
Rinse with chamomile tea for a gentle scalp treatment that keeps hair soft and shiny and cuts brassiness from blonde hair. Pour a cup of room temperature tea onto damp hair and massage in. Rinse with cool water after 10 minutes. Repeat twice a month.
Helpful Hint:
Hair color and eyebrows shouldn’t be a perfect match. Lighten brows with a brow pencil or powder one shade lighter than hair color.
Expert Advice: Go For Quality
“Don’t cheat on color just to save money. Most colors on the market have a low price point and use secondary colors like purple, orange, and green that fade easily from hair. In contrast, quality colors are formulated from the primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. Find a stylist that knows these qualities, or ask your salon about the brand of color they use and call the company for more information. If you need to cut salon costs, wave the cut and blow dry instead. It’s better to achieve high color and long-lasting results.”
Judy Wilson
21 Knots Hair Salon
