After figuring out the perfect mahogany or caramel honey shade to suit you, it is such a pity that the shower is your hair color killer. Most people lose half of their color in the first two weeks just because they are not acquainted with the "rules of engagement." If you want to learn how to keep your hair color that it still appears "salon-fresh" after a few months, it is all about protecting the cuticle.
If you visualize your hair cuticle as a pinecone, can you help it stay closed? Hot water opens the scales; therefore, your costly pigment is going down the drain. Be sure that you always wash your hair with warm water and finish it with a 30-second cold rinse. The "cold water" here is crucial, as it "shocks" the cuticle to close, thus, the previously fused color is locked in, and the hair is given an instant shiny effect.
Being consistent is the main thing that separates a dark fade from a bright glow. Simply adhere to the following easy routine:
|
Action |
Frequency |
Why it Matters |
|
Sulfate-Free Shampoo |
2–3 times a week |
Prevents stripping natural oils and pigment. |
|
Color-Depositing Mask |
Once a week |
Adds a fresh "tint" to replace faded tones. |
|
UV Protection Spray |
Every morning |
Prevents the sun from "bleaching" your color. |
|
Deep Conditioning |
Every 10 days |
Keeps the hair "plump" so it holds color better. |
Heat is not only a blower’s fault, although people seem to overlook this, quite often. For example, the hot afternoon sun in India can cause your hair color to go through oxidation in less than half an hour, thus, the color strip will be quicker than the actual chemical one. Once you figure out how to maintain colored hair, think of the analogy with skin - never go out without a UV-protectant serum or a simple scarf. Besides, if you use heat daily to style your hair, then a heat protector that can handle up to 230°C is what you need to avoid burning the area "toasted" with your pigment."
Essentially, all the talk about maintenance isn’t a ploy to get you to purchase twenty different products but rather a reminder of what you should refrain from doing, that is, exposing your hair to high heat and harsh chemicals. Do less washing, rinse with cold water, and keep your hair hydrated. If you follow these steps, your "Day 1" color can be your "Day 30" color just as easily.
Q: Can I put coconut oil on my colored hair?
Yes, but you should wait at least one week after coloring. Heavy oils can, in fact, "pull" the pigment out if hair is still porous due to the chemical process.
Q: What makes my blonde hair turn brassy?
The most usual cause of that is minerals in your tap water (hard water). Use a "Purple Shampoo" once in a week to neutralize those orange or yellow tones.
Q: Is dry shampoo safe for color?
More than safe—it is a lifesaver! It allows you to skip the wet washes, which are the #1 way that your color will not fade.