Having my hair colored is now not an option nor a luxury. If I don’t want to look like someone’s grandmother (even though I am) an investment in a good cut and precise coloring is imperative, as well as expensive.
Making my visits to the salon as far apart as possible is a priority so when I noticed that I was fading out way too quickly, I asked my colorist and did some research on my own on how to protect that color investment.
One thing to note is that your color really won’t last more than about six weeks no matter how you pamper it – and if you have red coloring you can plan on a monthly visit to the salon.
Cool Water
Cool water is a must when shampooing and rinsing – even if you are taking a shower. Hot water fades your hair but cool to lukewarm water will keep it looking good.
Skip a Day
Don’t wash your hair for a few days after you have it done. For the longest lasting color, try not to wash it every day but skip a day in between shampoos.
Shampoo
Using a color enhancing shampoo can keep your hair color vibrant between visits. There are violet or blue shampoos for hair that gets that weird brassy color as it fades. You can usually find them at your beauty supply center.
Protect It
You hair needs protection from the sun as much as your skin does. It only takes a few hours to fade out your color. Try wearing a hat or scarf when you are going to be spending a lot of time outside.
You can also use hair products with sunscreen or mix 1/2 cup filtered water with one teaspoon of SPF 25 sunscreen and use that to spritz on your hair before heading out to the pool.
photo credit: M. Marcus
