7 Ways to Make Your Hair Colour Last Longer

Whether you’ve embraced a dramatic new look or just added some highlights, changing your hair colour can be a significant investment, which is why you would want your new ‘do’ to last as long as possible. However, without the proper hair care routine, your vibrant colour could fade quickly. Here, Bronwyn Rhodes, hair stylist and owner of Well Deserved Hair and Beauty Salon shares her top tips for not only increasing the vibrancy of your new shade for longer, but improving the overall health of your hair too.

1.    Allow the colour to settle

After getting a fresh colour, your hair needs a little time to adjust. To help your new shade settle in and minimise washout, Rhodes suggests waiting 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair.

2.    Keep cool

A hot shower might feel good after a long day, but hot water can re-open the hair cuticle, allowing colour (and moisture) to escape. To help extend the colour (and shine) of your hair, rinse your hair with cool (or cold) water. This helps seal the cuticle, keeping your hair hydrated and reducing split ends.

3.    Don’t over-wash

One of the biggest causes of colour fading is washing your hair almost every single day, says Rhodes. Over-washing your hair will not only strip hair of oils and colour, but can also make your locks dry, brittle, and damaged. She suggests washing your hair twice or three times a week.

4.    Choose colour-safe products

Regular shampoos and conditioners often contain chemicals like parabens, sodium chloride, and sulphates that can fade your colour and dry out your hair. Instead, look for products specifically designed for colour-treated hair. These are formulated to nourish your locks and keep your colour vivid and long-lasting.

5.    Boost hydration

Colour-treated hair can be more fragile and drier, so adding extra hydration is crucial. Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment, such as an oil or hair mask, into your routine once a week. Ingredients like coconut, argan, and jojoba oils, as well as shea butter, help seal the cuticle, locking in moisture and enhancing shine and volume.

6.    Limit heat-styling

Dyed hair is more prone to damage, so try to limit the use of blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. Opt for air-drying and heatless hairstyles whenever possible. If you must use hot tools, apply a heat-protectant product first to shield your hair and help preserve your colour.

7.    Get glossy

Using a glossing treatment is a great option between hair-colouring appointments and will help seal in your colour, boost its brightness and essentially help the health of your hair. While hair gloss treatments are traditionally performed at a salon, at-home treatments are also available and come in a variety of formats to enhance your locks.

IMAGE: 123rf.com