Summer-proof your hair colour

Whether you’ve gone bold with a whole new shade or simply brightened up with highlights, there’s nothing worse than watching your gorgeous colour fade after a few sunny days. Between UV rays, salt water, and pool chemicals, your hair takes a beating in summer. The result? Dull, brassy tones and dry, brittle strands. Luckily, a few simple tweaks to your routine can protect your colour and keep your mane glossy and vibrant all season long. We reached out to Ilhaam Rabin, owner and stylist at Head Quarters Hair Design, a  Cape Town-based hair salon, for her expert advice on keeping colour-treated hair healthy, shiny, and vibrant all season.

Wait before you wash

“After colouring, your hair cuticles are open and fragile,” explains Ilhaam. “If you wash too soon, you risk rinsing the pigment out.” She recommends waiting at least 48 to 72 hours before shampooing to help the colour fully lock in.

Keep it cool

As tempting as a hot shower may be, it can strip colour and moisture. Opt for lukewarm or cool water instead. “Cold rinses help seal the cuticle, locking in shine and preventing dullness,” says Ilhaam.

Protect from the sun

Just like your skin, your hair needs daily sun protection too. Prolonged UV exposure can break down colour pigments and leave your hair dry and brassy. Use a UV-protective spray or oil before heading outdoors to shield your strands from sun damage, and top it off with a hat or scarf for extra defence against harsh rays.

Use products made for colour-treated hair

Ordinary shampoos often contain sulphates, parabens, and salts that strip away pigment and hydration. Choose gentle, colour-protecting formulas designed to nourish and preserve your shade.

Wash less often

Frequent washing is a major cause of colour fade. Try washing your hair two to three times a week and reach for a colour-safe dry shampoo between washes to soak up excess oil and sweat, which are especially handy on hot summer days.

Protect before you swim

Salt water and chlorine are harsh on coloured hair. “Before swimming, wet your hair with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner or protective spray,” advises Ilhaam. This helps prevent chlorine and salt from penetrating the hair shaft. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and apply a moisturising mask.

Add back moisture

Coloured hair is more porous and can feel dry in summer. Treat it weekly with a deep-conditioning mask or oil treatment packed with nourishing ingredients like argan, coconut, or shea butter.

Turn down the heat

Blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can cause colour to fade faster. Whenever possible, air-dry your hair or style it heat-free. If you must use heat, apply a protectant first.

Get glossy

Between salon visits, boost shine and refresh dull tones with a glossing treatment or lightweight oil. These add a reflective finish and help seal in colour.

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Climaplex Ultra Leave‑In Protection Mist 150ml

Sorbet Colour Protect Shampoo 350ml

Urban Care Hair Care Series Intense Keratin Serum + UV Protectant 75ml

The Body Shop Moringa Shine And Protection Hair Mist 100ml

Alama Colour Protect Shampoo 100ml

Sorbet Colour Protect Conditioner 350ml

Umberto Giannini Boho Beach Waves Coconut Oil Texture Spray 200ml

Hair Rescue Argan Deep Conditioning Treatment Mask 25ml

Clicks Haircare Collection Treatment Mask Shea Butter Coconut Oil 50 Ml

Marc Anthony Deep Conditioner Argan Oil Of Morroco 50ml

Sorbet Drybar Full Shine Ahead Keratin Smoothing Oil 30ml

The Body Shop Grapeseed Glossing Serum 60ml

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