Important Aftercare Tips
After coloring your hair, it's important to follow some guidelines to maintain the color vibrancy and overall health of your hair. Here are some hair care tips to consider:
Wait before washing
I find that the color molecules set much better when you allow at least 5 days before washing. I understand that may seem unreasonable, but this is in order for the color to fully penetrate the hair shaft ensuring the longevity of the color. Use this as inspiration to do some slicked back gel looks!
Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner
Invest in a shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are gentle and help preserve the color by preventing it from fading quickly. Look for sulfate-free , paraben free and silicone free products, as those chemicals can affect your hair health and color. If you're unsure of what to use, please ask me directly! I will most likely know what's best for your hair and your hair texture!
Wash with cool water
When washing your hair, opt for cool or lukewarm water instead of hot water. I know- it's torture but you'll be grateful when you see that your hair isn't fading as quickly. Hot water can open the hair cuticles, leading to color fading and cold water helps seal the cuticles, locking in the color and adding shine.
Limit shampooing
Try to reduce the frequency of shampooing, as this can strip away the color. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days or as needed. Try to schedule your washing days with work days and important events!
Minimize heat styling
Frequent heat styling can cause damage and fading to your colored hair. Minimize their use as much as possible, or if you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Opt for lower heat settings whenever you can!
Avoid chlorine and saltwater
Be mindful that chlorine and saltwater can strip away the color and make it fade faster. If you're swimming in a pool or the ocean, protect your hair by wearing a swim cap or create a barrier by using hair sunscreen or leave-in conditioner. Pro-tip- dermatologists recommend using sunscreen on your scalp, but I definitely recommend applying sunscreen to your scalp fresh after a color as your scalp could still be sensitive!
Maximizing Your Take-Home Hair Color Maintenance
Congratulations on your new fashion color! To ensure its longevity, it's important to understand a few key points:
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Fashion colors typically last up to 6 weeks.
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These colors are not permanent; they are direct dyes that adhere to pre-lightened hair.
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Regular color retouch services and using take-home products can help 'stamp' the color in and maintain the color for longer.
There are several ways to use your take-home product; it may require some experimentation to find what works best for you:
Option 1:
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Prime your hair before applying the color by shampooing and conditioning. Apply the product generously to your hair, leave it on for 10-20 minutes (10 minutes for a quick refresh, 20 minutes for longer-lasting results), and then rinse and condition again.
Option 2:
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Apply the color to dry hair before shampooing and conditioning, leaving it on for 10-20 minutes. This method is most effective after the hair has been previously stamped (whether that's an in house color retouch service or a take home maintenance) a few times, so keep that in mind.
Option 3:
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To further extend the life of your take-home color, bring a travel-sized bottle for your stylist to fill with 3/4 of your take-home product and top up with conditioner. Use this mixture as a regular conditioner. This is method is effective after the hair has been previously stamped.
Finding what works best for you is trial and error and always consult me if you have any questions.
Thank you!