Getting your hair coloured can be an exciting transformation—whether it’s a bold new shade or a subtle enhancement of your natural tone. But maintaining that fresh-from-the-salon vibrancy is where the real effort begins. Hair colour tends to fade over time due to washing, environmental exposure, and the use of unsuitable products. Fortunately, with the right techniques and care, you can extend the life of your colour and keep your locks looking radiant for weeks. Here are some expert-approved tips to help you do just that.
Choose Colour-Protecting Shampoos and Conditioners
Once you’ve coloured your hair, the first step towards preserving it begins in the shower. Traditional shampoos often contain sulphates—cleansing agents that can strip colour from hair strands. Instead, opt for gentle, sulphate-free shampoos formulated specifically for coloured hair. These products cleanse without removing the vibrancy or damaging the hair shaft.
Using a matching conditioner is equally important. These formulas provide the moisture and nutrients needed to keep your hair soft and healthy while helping to lock in colour.
Limit Frequent Hair Washing
Frequent washing is one of the fastest ways to fade hair colour. Try to limit your washes to two or three times a week. When you do wash your hair, use cool or lukewarm water instead of hot, as high temperatures can open up the hair cuticle and cause colour to leach out more quickly.
Dry shampoo can be a great alternative on non-wash days. It absorbs excess oil and refreshes your hair without needing water, helping to preserve your colour for longer.
Use Heat Styling Sparingly
While we all love a good blow-dry or sleek straightened look, excessive heat styling can speed up the fading process. Heat damages the hair cuticle, making it more porous and allowing the colour to escape more easily. When using hair styling products that involve heat—such as straighteners, curling irons, or dryers—make sure to apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. This creates a protective barrier and reduces the impact of high temperatures on your colour-treated hair.
Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from harmful UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can cause your hair colour to fade and lose its lustre. When heading outdoors, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat or scarf to shield your hair. Alternatively, you can use leave-in conditioners or sprays that offer UV protection, keeping your strands safe from the sun’s harsh effects.
Avoid Chlorinated Water
Chlorine, often found in swimming pools, is another major culprit when it comes to fading hair colour. It can react with the dye and lead to unwanted discolouration, particularly in lighter shades. If you plan to swim, wear a swim cap or rinse your hair with fresh water before and after entering the pool. This simple habit can minimise chlorine absorption and keep your colour looking fresh.
Be Selective with Hair Treatments
After colouring your hair, it’s important to be cautious with chemical treatments such as perming, relaxing, or rebonding. These processes can strip the colour and weaken the hair. If you must undergo any chemical treatment, consult your stylist to ensure adequate time has passed since your colouring session and use restorative treatments post-procedure.
Also, when using hair styling products, make sure they’re colour-safe and alcohol-free. Many styling gels, sprays, and mousses contain ingredients that can dry out the hair and fade colour more quickly. Always read the labels and choose products designed for coloured hair.
Deep Condition Weekly
Coloured hair often needs extra hydration to remain healthy and vibrant. Using a deep conditioning mask once a week can nourish your strands and prolong your colour. Look for treatments rich in natural oils, proteins, and vitamins to help repair any damage caused by colouring and external stressors.
Regular Touch-Ups and Trims
Even with the best care, colour will fade over time. To maintain a consistent look, schedule regular touch-ups with your stylist, especially if you’ve opted for vibrant or fashion shades. Additionally, trimming your ends every six to eight weeks helps remove any dry, damaged hair that could affect the overall appearance of your colour.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your hair colour doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a combination of the right products, smart habits, and protective measures, you can enjoy long-lasting, vibrant colour that turns heads for all the right reasons. After all, great hair isn’t just about the colour you choose—it’s also about how well you take care of it.
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