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6 Tips for Making Your Hair Color Last, According to Stylists

 

Raise your hand if you regularly visit the hair salon for color treatments! Whether you’re getting highlights, lowlights, a root touchup, or an all-over color, we can all agree while worth it, the beauty treatment can be an expensive habit. That's why we do everything we possibly can to make our color last between salon visits. However, that is a lot easier said than done. Not sure where to start? We tapped two colorists to share their top tricks for preserving hair color at home. Below, learn six tips, from product recommendations to routine suggestions, that will help extend your time between appointments.

Meet the Experts

• Lorena M. Valdes is a colorist at Maxine Salon and based in Chicago.
• Daniel Mora is a hair artist and educator, Wella Professionals Ambassador, and co-owner of the Onyx On Madison salon in California.

Use a Heat Protectant

We’ll be the first to admit that we, too, forget to use heat protectants on occasion. But it’s a super important part of your prep work that you shouldn't be skipped. “A heat protector is your best friend—regardless if you blow dry or air dry your hair. It will create a shield to protect strands from the elements while acting like a lightweight leave-in conditioner,” explains Lorena M. Valdes, colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.

Similarly, Daniel Mora, hair artist and Wella Professionals Ambassador tells us that excessive heat styling can be a major factor in causing color to fade quickly. “Heat tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can dry out your hair and strip color from the cuticle," he explains. "To protect your color, minimize heat styling and always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools.”

Protect Your Hair From Sun Exposure

Just as consistent exposure to heat from our hot tools can be harsh on our hair, the same goes for the sun. “The sun can damage your hair and cause color to fade faster, particularly when hair is already color-treated,” Mora explains. “UV rays can break down hair pigments, leaving the color dull and faded.”

Limiting the amount of time you sit in the sun, especially with direct exposure to your hair, can help preserve your shade. However, if you’re planning on being outside for an extended period, Valdes suggests wearing “a hat when out in the sun to keep color from fading.”

Hydrate Hair Regularly

Using a deep conditioning treatment or at-home mask is going to be a total game-changer when it comes to your hair’s health, especially when it comes to color-treated hair. Mora says those who opt to dye their hair often need “extra hydration since the coloring process can leave hair drier and more fragile.”

So how should you incorporate it into your routine? “Using a deep conditioning treatment once a week can help replenish moisture, strengthen the hair shaft, and lock in color," Mora suggests. "This helps maintain the vibrancy of your color and prevents it from looking dull. I like to use the Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Miracle Hair Rescue as a weekly deep treatment.” 

And if you’re short on time and are looking for a quick way to hydrate your hair, Valdes has a great tip: “Mix your mask into your conditioner if you're not able to let the mask sit in for the full amount of time. While it’s diluted with conditioner, it will still [be beneficial].”

Allow Color to Set (And Limit Washes)

The previous tips are great for prep work and maintenance, but when it comes to the actual day (and days immediately after) you get your hair dyed, it is vital to allow your color to set. In other words, don’t wash your hair for at least 48 hours—the longer the better. “This gives the color time to fully set and bond to the hair,” Mora says. “After washing, avoid hot water, as it opens up the hair cuticle and can lead to color loss. Instead, wash with lukewarm or cool water to help preserve the color.”

Valdes also cautions to limit contact with chlorine. “If you’re a frequent swimmer, invest in a chlorine shampoo and a water filter at home to prevent mineral and metal build-up,” she suggests.  

Once you’re past the 48-72 hour mark, you can get back to your regular washing schedule. "The more frequently you wash your hair, the quicker your color will fade," warns Mora. "Try to wash your hair every two to three days rather than daily. If necessary, use a dry shampoo in between washes."

Keep Hair Healthy and Trimmed

Taking care of your hair is a huge part of making your color last. Yes, that means keeping up with regular haircuts. “Go for a trim every six to eight weeks to get rid of split ends and keep hair healthy,” says Mora. “This also ensures that color-treated hair looks its best, as split ends can make the color look dull and damaged. [Remember to] continue to use color-safe, sulfate-free products to help preserve your vibrant color.” If you give your hair extra TLC and take all the proper steps to maintain it, Valdes says it will be less prone to fading or lacking shine.

Use Products Designed for Color-Treated Hair

When curating the products in your routine, make sure the formulas are designed specifically for color-treated hair. While a run-of-the-mill shampoo and conditioner isn’t necessarily bad, it’s not giving you any additional benefits, either. “Sulfate-free shampoos are a must since sulfates can strip away color and moisture,” Mora explains. “Leave-in conditioners or color protection sprays can provide an extra layer of defense against fading.” 

Valdes's top picks include the K18 a bond-building treatment and a heat protector that can protect hair up to 450 degrees. "Metal detox shampoo is also an essential for everyone," she adds. "If water touches your hair you’re exposed to it and will benefit from it.”