Keeping your color fresh and vibrant isn’t just about the salon—it’s about how you care for your hair at home. When working with clients, I always remind them that a big part of the process is following simple after-coloring hair care rules. I make sure to go over these steps so they can keep their color looking great long after they leave the salon. I want to share with you the key things to remember after coloring your hair!
No matter how well your hair was colored, the pigment will naturally wash out over time. This doesn’t mean something went wrong—it’s simply how hair color works. However, how quickly it fades depends on your after-coloring hair care routine. The right habits can help your color last much longer!
The first 72 hours after coloring are crucial. The cuticle layer of your hair is still open from the coloring process, and washing too soon can cause the pigment to slip out before it fully settles. Waiting a few days before your first wash helps the color lock in, making it last longer.
Not all hair products are created equal—using the wrong shampoo can strip your color faster. Choose a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can make your color fade quickly and leave your hair feeling dry. If you want to extend the life of your color even further, try washing your hair less frequently—every 2-3 days instead of daily. This way, your hair care routine will protect your color for longer!
We all love a hot shower, but your hair doesn’t! Hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing color to escape more easily. Instead, rinse your hair with lukewarm or cool water. This helps seal the cuticle, keeping your color in and your hair shinier.
Color-treated hair tends to be drier because the coloring process weakens the hair structure. Moisture is key to maintaining soft, healthy-looking hair.
Healthy, moisturized hair holds onto color better!
UV rays, chlorine, and salt water can fade your color quickly. Here’s how to protect it:
If you’re spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a UV-protectant hair spray to shield your hair from the sun.
Swimming tips: Chlorine and salt water can strip color, especially lighter shades. Before swimming, wet your hair with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner—this creates a barrier that helps prevent damage.
If you love using a blow dryer, curling iron, or straightener, always apply a heat protectant spray first. Heat tools can cause your color to fade faster and leave your hair feeling dry or brittle. Try to use lower heat settings whenever possible.
It’s tempting to hop into bed with damp hair, but especially after coloring, this can be harmful. After the coloring process, your hair is more delicate and prone to damage. When your hair is wet, it’s even more vulnerable, as it’s thinner and more prone to breakage. To keep your hair strong and healthy, avoid sleeping with wet hair—let it dry first or use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
Taking care of your hair after coloring isn’t complicated—it’s all about small changes that make a big difference! A little extra care will keep your hair looking vibrant, healthy, and salon-fresh for weeks. If you want to make sure you’re following the best hair care routine for your color, just remember: consistency is key!
So, don’t wait—start your after-coloring hair care routine today.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also like Wellness Shots for Healthy Hair. After all, the health of your hair starts from the inside! Nourishing your body with the right vitamins and antioxidants can make a big difference in keeping your hair strong, shiny, and vibrant.