You’ve just left the salon with that stunning new hair colour – vibrant, shiny, and perfectly you! But the journey doesn’t end there. To keep your freshly coloured locks looking salon-fresh for as long as possible, a dedicated post-colour care routine is absolutely essential. Without it, your beautiful shade can fade prematurely, and your hair might lose its healthy lustre.
Post Colour Care: Your ultimate guide to maintaining the vibrancy and health of your coloured hair:
1. The 72-Hour Rule: Patience is Key
The first and most crucial tip: wait at least 72 hours (3 days) before shampooing your hair after a colour service. This allows the hair cuticle, which was opened during the colouring process, to fully close and trap the colour molecules inside. Washing too soon can lead to significant colour washout.
2. Choose Colour-Safe Products
Invest in shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for colour-treated hair. These products are gentler, often sulfate-free, and designed to cleanse without stripping away your colour.
- Sulfate-Free is Your Friend: Sulfates (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or Sodium Laureth Sulfate) are harsh detergents that can strip natural oils and, more importantly, your hair colour.
- Look for pH-Balancing Formulas: Products with a slightly acidic pH help to seal the hair cuticle, which locks in colour.
- Condition, Condition, Condition: Colouring can make your hair porous. A good colour-safe conditioner will help seal the cuticle, add moisture, and enhance shine. View our article here to read about the importance of a good deep condition.
3. Wash Smart, Not Often
- Wash Less Frequently: The less you wash, the longer your colour will last. Try to extend the time between washes using dry shampoo on your roots if needed.
- Use Lukewarm or Cool Water: Hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing colour to escape. Rinse with lukewarm or cool water to help seal the cuticle and preserve vibrancy.
- Gentle Lathering: Don’t aggressively scrub your scalp and hair. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp and let the suds rinse down the lengths.
4. Hydrate with Deep Conditioning Masks
Colouring, especially bleaching, can be drying. Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask specifically for colour-treated hair into your weekly routine. These masks provide intense moisture and repair, which is vital for maintaining the integrity and shine of your coloured strands. Check out our article here about the importance of deep conditioning.
5. Protect from Heat Styling
Heat is a major culprit for colour fade and damage.
- Use a Heat Protectant: Always apply a good heat protectant spray or serum before using any heat styling tools (hairdryers, straighteners, curling irons).
- Lower the Temperature: Use the lowest effective heat setting on your tools.
- Limit Frequency: Try to air-dry your hair when possible and reduce the frequency of heat styling.
6. Guard Against Sun Damage
Just like your skin, your hair needs sun protection. UV rays can break down colour molecules, leading to fading and brassiness.
- Wear a Hat: When spending extended time outdoors, a wide-brimmed hat is your best defence.
- Use UV Protectant Sprays: Some hair products offer UV filters, which can provide an extra layer of protection.
7. Beware Of Metals (Hard Water)
Hard water, common in many areas in the UK, contain minerals like calcium and magnesium that can build up on hair, making it look dull and even altering colour over time (especially blondes).
- Consider a Shower Filter: A simple shower filter can significantly reduce mineral deposits.
- Use Chelating Shampoos (Occasionally): These shampoos are designed to remove mineral build-up, but use them sparingly as they can be stronger.
8. Regular Trims
Even with the best care, coloured hair, especially ends, can become prone to dryness and split ends. Regular maintenance haircuts and trims (every 6-8 weeks) will keep your hair looking healthy, strong, and your colour fresh. Book your appointment to keep those ends healthy.
By following these post-colour care tips, you can significantly extend the life and vibrancy of your beautiful new hair colour, keeping it looking salon-perfect until your next visit to Charlie Brown Hair!
