Like a phoenix rising vibrantly from the ashes, a fresh new hair colour restores our spirits and self-image. In those first glossy weeks, we savour admiring glances and compliments, feeling renewed. But then the dreadful fading begins, our vivid plumage losing its lustre far too fast. You walk out of the salon feeling fabulous with fresh, vibrant hair colour. But then notice it quickly fading and washing out. What gives?
Hair colour inevitably lightens and loses intensity over time. But you can take steps to dramatically slow the fading process. Read on for five crucial tips to help your hair colour last longer and avoid premature washing out.
1. Use Colour-Saving Shampoo
Traditional shampoos contain harsh sulphates that strip colour molecules from strands. To prevent rapid fading, switch to a gentle, sulphate-free formula designed specifically for colour-treated hair.
Look for moisturising cleansers that use mild surfactants to cleanse hair without removing colour. The rich lather will keep your locks shiny and vibrant for weeks longer.
Also, limit shampooing to every other day or a few times per week max. Over-washing causes more colour to wash down the drain.
2. Shampoo in Cool Water
The temperature of the water makes a big difference. Hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing more colour pigment to escape.
Rinsing your hair with cool or lukewarm water keeps the cuticle sealed tighter to prevent colour molecules from washing out. It may take some adjusting if you love steamy showers, but it’s crucial to use lower temp water when shampooing.
Also, turn down the heat on blow dryers and styling tools. Excessive heat further depletes your lush colour.
3. Use a Weekly Treatment Mask
Deep condition hair weekly with a treatment mask to restore lost moisture and refresh fading colour. Opt for one specially designed for colour protection.
These contain caring oils along with colour-locking technologies to revive your hue. The hydration replenishes strands so colour stays rich and brilliant. Don’t skip your weekly mask!
4. Protect Strands Outdoors
Sun exposure degrades hair colour the same way it fades clothing dyes. UVA/UVB rays rapidly wash out vibrancy leaving hair looking dried out and dull.
Before any outdoor activity, coat strands with a protective spray that creates an anti-fade shield. Wearing hats is another easy way to provide shade from the fading effects of sunlight.
5. Rinse With Cool Vinegar
For extra insurance against colour washing out from your next shampoo, do a pre-wash rinse with vinegar. The acidic vinegar helps seal the cuticle for enhanced colour retention.
Mix 1 cup cool water with 2 tablespoons white vinegar. After wetting hair, pour the solution through the lengths. Let sit briefly before rinsing out and shampooing as normal. This simple step makes a big difference.
Don’t dismay when your fresh colour starts to fade. With a few smart tweaks to your washing and styling routine, you can dramatically extend the vibrancy of your new hue for weeks longer. Follow these pro tips to keep your colour looking rich, shiny and freshly done.
