A new hair colour can transform your look and give you more confidence, however it can come with a downside. When you change your hair colour, it will inevitably fade, lighten or revert back to it’s natural state, meaning you have to be prepared to maintain it
There are some things you can do in order to keep your colour looking rich and vibrant, for longer.
The right choice of colour
The best advice we can give to people who want to maintain their colour is that the right choice of colour is essential.
Choosing a colour that is two or three shades within your natural colour range will ensure that your roots won’t be too obvious when it grows through.
If you have grey or a salt & pepper type of colour, it’s usually better to go with a multi-tonal colour, usually applied using highlights to blend the different colours in your hair, minimising signs of regrowth.
Use a mild Shampoo
By using a mild shampoo that doesn’t contain sulphates or sodium chloride, this will minimise the risk of your shampoo being too harsh stripping the colour out over time.
Colour enhancing shampoo can be useful; if your hair tends to go a brassy colour, use a violet-based shampoo, as the violet hues will combat the warm, brassy undertones.
Aveda have carefully crafted shampoos for colour treated hair. Products such as the Colour Conserve strengthen, illuminates colour and gives a reflective shine.
We also have a range of colour enhancing shampoo to match your shade, EG: blonde, brunette, red. These are great for making your colour last that bit longer.
Conditioning Your Hair
When you colour your hair, it’s usually done using a chemical process that opens up the cuticles (a layer that protects the hair shaft) to either strip out or modify your natural hair pigment.
A high quality conditioning regimen is important because it will help to help keep the cuticles of the hair shaft closed after your hair colour. This is what keeps your colour in for longer, makes your hair smooth and gives your hair that beautiful shine.
Don’t Wash Hair Straight After Colour
By not washing your hair for the 24-48 hours after having hair colour treated, you will give the cuticles on the hair shaft a chance to close properly and seal the colour into the hair.
The scalps natural oils will help moisturise and protect your scalp, which in turn will make sure your hair grows through strong and healthy.
Use Leave In Conditioner
Products that are designed to be left in your hair can also be very useful for making your colour last longer.
We suggest using products that add a layer of protection to your hair. Blow-drying your hair with heat, excessive straightening iron use along with UV rays from the sun will all contribute towards your hair colour fading or appearing dull.
Ask your stylist what products you can use, that suit your hair type and give you that extra protection.
Protect Hair From Sun Damage
It’s not always practical to wear a hat outside but direct sunlight can strip the hair colour. Use a shampoo and conditioner with built in sunscreen. There are also UV sprays, which also help lock in moisture.
Aveda’s hair care range offers a variety of products boosted with UV protection.
Be Careful When Swimming
Going on holiday can be a tough time for your hair, and swimming pools with chlorinated water can also strip the colour from your locks quicker than it took to apply it.
To minimise this, spread a little conditioner through your hair and tie it in a bun. This will seal and guard hair to lessen the effects of chlorine. Remember to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water once finished with your swim though.
Conclusion
There is no magic cure for keeping your hair colour fresh and vibrant for longer. It just requires a small amount of consistent, ongoing care.
Tell us what you think or contribute your own tips below in the comments…
