Whether you spend a lot of money at a salon or use drugstore box dye, we all want our locks to look fresh and vibrant for as long as possible. Here are 5 tips for preserving hair color.
1. Don’t Wash Everyday
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It may seem obvious, but water and shampoo are the two main components that make your hair dye fade down the drain. Deep cleansing and anti dandruff shampoos tend to be the main culprits, and should be avoided if you want your color to last. Many experts recommend that washing your hair only once a week is optimal. Although avoiding washing may be more difficult for people with naturally oilier hair, dry shampoo is always your best friend. It’s also important to remember to wait at least 24 hours after dyeing your hair to wash it.
2. Use a Color Protectant or Color Deposit Shampoo and Conditioner
Color protectant shampoos work by being gentler, with protective ingredients that coat the hair and prevent color from escaping the follicle. Amika Vault Color-Lock comes with UV filters and antioxidants that make sure your color stays popping. Color deposit shampoos work how they sound, by depositing the pigment directly back into your hair. This is especially useful for blondes who want to avoid looking brassy. OverTone Haircare comes with a color deposit line with options for a wide range of shades.
3. Use Cold Water
Hot water opens up the hair follicles more than cold water, and allows for more color bleeding, while cold water keeps the follicles tight and closed. This is especially essential for redheads, whose color fades the fastest. Although it may seem unpleasant, it’s worth it in the long run.
4. Limit Your Sun Exposure
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The more time you spend in the sun, the quicker your hair color will fade. This is because the UV rays break down the chemicals bonds within the dye. If being in the sun for extended periods of time is unavoidable, make sure to cover your hair with a large hat or umbrella. Surprisingly, there are also SPF products that can be applied to the hair and scalp, such as the Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil.
5. Avoid Heat Styling
The hotter the temperature, the quicker the color will fade. If you’re married to your blow dryer, curling iron, or straightener and can’t seem to part with them, make sure to use the lowest heat setting possible and utilize a heat protectant spray that will coat the particles and help prevent the color from escaping. The Pureology Color Fanatic Multi-Tasking Leave in Spray is optimal for colored hair.
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