Color Care Guide

Most “classic” or “traditional” colors will begin to fade after a few washes. This is completely normal, but in most cases should not be significantly lighter after just a couple washes. Traditional color typically lasts between 10-15 washes (about 6-8 weeks for most people). Vivid colors (red, blue, etc.) will fade faster as they simply stain the hair and do not penetrate it. They generally last around 8 washes. 

This is, of course, assuming professional shampoos and conditioners are being used. “Over-the-counter” products often contain detergents that can strip color more quickly, waxes that coat the hair leaving your color looking dull, and chemicals that change the pH of your hair without returning it to its proper form. All of these things can cause damage as well as alter your hair color.  The cost of professional products can come with some sticker shock but remember that these have been properly formulated to preserve the health and integrity of your hair and its color. Additionally, they’re FAR more concentrated and when used as directed can last twice as long as your standard OTC products and sometimes even longer.

Highlights will never fade, the color has been removed from your hair altogether. The tone, however, may change due to makeup, product, or mineral buildup. This can be treated in-salon with a quick re-tone, a treatment to remove minerals, or a combination of the two. Again, using the proper products can make a world of difference. A purple or blue shampoo can help keep brassiness at bay. There are some sold OTC but these do tend to be VERY drying and while they may help tone, they do not make for great shampoos and you may find you have to use other products to try and solve those problems. Those additional products may turn around and un-do the work the purple shampoo did anyway. We have fantastic options available for sale at a number of price points.

All hair color will wear better and longer when washed as infrequently as possible, with the coldest water you can stand. Products like dry shampoos can help stretch time between washes. Remember that when shampooing, try to keep the shampoo on your scalp, not on the lengths or ends of your hair. Shampoo removes oils which are not made in the hair shaft. Over-washing will leave it dry, brittle, and will fade color much more quickly. In most cases, the process of the suds running through your strands during rinsing is more than sufficient. Conversely, keep your conditioner on the middle and ends of your hair and away from your scalp. Conditioning your scalp too often can leave you feeling oily sooner which leads to needing more frequent washing. 

Heat is often overlooked when trying to solve the problem of fading color. Use hot tools and blow dryers with adjustable heat settings and try to use lower temperatures. Most heat damage will come from irons. Flat irons in particular. Take care to use smaller sections and move slowly with lower temperatures. It will save you from singeing your hair and having to iron the same section 17364829264 times to get it smooth (we’ve all been guilty of this, trust me). And make sure you’re using a good heat protectant before blow drying, styling, or even when you plan to be out in the sun for a good stretch of time.

And speaking of sunny weather, watch out for chlorine and other chemicals used to treat water. They’re made and used, in part, to keep water looking clean and clear so it only makes sense they would fade your color when overly exposed. With vivid colors they can sometimes remove them altogether because remember, those colors are simply stains. Before swimming it's a great idea to get your hair wet in your shower or sink first. This will leave less room for pool water to be absorbed. Braiding your hair (if possible) can also help as it keeps the hair bound close and prevents it from moving back and forth while exposing the full length of each strand to the chemicals. These aren’t perfect solutions by any means but if you’re worried you may not be able to keep your hair dry and want to skip the swim cap, it's better than nothing. Chlorine is notorious for giving blondes a green hue on occasion. This is also treatable at the salon with a quick treatment designed to remove those chemicals. You may find you need a quick tone after as well, but it’s generally a very simple process.

I want you to LOVE your hair and get the most wear out of your service as possible. Once you leave my chair, it’s in your hands though and I’m hoping some of this information will help us both keep you happy and your hair healthy!