Coloring your hair is an exciting way to express your personality and make a style statement! The thing is, it’s not as easy to maintain. Colored hair needs special care to remain healthy and vibrant, and that goes for whether you’ve opted for pastel hues, metallic sheens, or vibrant shades.
In this article, we’ll let you in on some of the best ways to make color in your hair last longer (and look healthier!), according to L'Oréal.
1. Limit Wash Frequency
Extend the life of your color by reducing the number of times you wash your hair each week to two to three times. On the days you don't shampoo, consider using a dry shampoo to soak up excess oil, keeping your scalp fresh and preserving your color.
2. Co-Washing as an Alternative
If you're finding it challenging to lessen wash frequency, you can still preserve color by "co-washing" or using conditioner instead of shampoo. This helps maintain the vibrancy of the color while still giving your hair the moisture and softness it craves.
On another note, choose a conditioner rich in hydrating ingredients like oils and butters. This not only helps lock in moisture, but also forms a protective barrier around the hair, keeping the color intact.
3. Choose Specialized Shampoo
Use a shampoo specifically designed for colored hair. Look for formulas labeled as "low sulfate" or “sulfate-free” as these are more gentle on your color. These products help in retaining the vibrancy of your color for longer.
4. Use Heat Protection Sprays
Before using any heat styling tools like straighteners, curlers, or hairdryers, apply a heat protection spray. This forms a protective layer on your hair, reducing the risk of heat damage that can contribute to color-fading.
5. Indulge in Hair Masks
Take time out twice a week to apply a nourishing hair mask! Hair masks provide a deep conditioning treatment, which replenishes lost nutrients and moisture that are crucial for maintaining the vibrancy of your colored hair.
6. Air-Dry When Possible
As much as possible, limit your hair’s exposure to heat and let it air-dry naturally. If you want to enhance your natural hair texture while it dries, you can use lightweight hair oils or leave-in conditioners for added nourishment without risking color-fading.
7. Nourish from Within
Your diet has a significant impact on your hair's health, too! Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, as well as nuts that are high in Vitamin E like walnuts, can make your hair stronger and shinier, and help keep the color for longer.
8. Regular Touch-Ups are Essential
As your hair grows and the color fades, you'll find that your original hue starts to lose its vibrancy. A regular touch-up appointment with your stylist not only revives the color, but also provides an opportunity for a professional hair assessment. He/She can give you tailored advice based on how your hair has responded to the color and products you've been using, ensuring that your locks remain as luscious and vibrant as possible.
And here’s a tip for you, Bestie! We know that getting your hair done isn’t exactly cheap, but with Parlon’s selection of amazing discounts on hair services, you can save up to 50% off your total bill!
Ultimately, taking care of colored hair doesn't have to be overly complicated. With a balanced approach to haircare, you can enjoy your vivid, pastel, or metallic shades for longer, turning heads wherever you go!
Also read:
- This is Why Stylists Often Recommend Sulfate-Free Hair Products
- How Often Should You Really Get a Haircut?
- What Exactly is a Balayage and Why is Everyone Getting it Done?
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