How do I slow down my hair color fading?

Tips to Extend Your Hair Color: Preventing Fade

Hair color fading is a natural part of the process with permanent dyes. However, there are several strategies you can adopt to prolong the vibrancy of your color. Understanding the factors contributing to color fade and making informed choices about your hair care routine can significantly impact how long your color stays vibrant.

Understanding Hair Color Fade

Hair color fading is influenced by your hair's condition and how you care for it post-coloring. Healthy hair tends to hold onto color better. Due to their composition, reds, coppers, and mahogany shades are particularly prone to fading faster than others.

Tips to Prevent Color Fade:

Prioritize Hair Health: Dry, porous, or damaged hair has compromised cuticles, the outer protective layer. This can lead to moisture loss and faster color fade. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your routine to repair and nourish your hair. Check out our article: Deep Conditioning Treatment 

Reduce Washing Frequency: Washing your hair too frequently can be very drying and strip away color molecules. Opt for a pH-balanced, color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Lukewarm water is gentler on your hair and helps keep the cuticles closed, reducing color loss. Avoid hot water, as it opens the cuticles and accelerates color release.

Limit Heat Styling: Heat-styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage hair and cause color to fade faster. When using these tools, lower the temperature settings to minimize damage. Heat opens the cuticle layer, making it easier for color molecules to escape.

Rethink the Pool: Chlorine is notorious for causing fading or distorting color. It’s best to put off swimming for at least 24 hours after your color treatment. The longer you wait, the better. Before and after swimming, it’s smart to rinse your hair with cool water. And if you’re serious about minimizing color fade, wear a swimming cap as an extra precaution.

Practice Sun Safety: Protect your hair from UV rays to maintain your color longer. UV rays can break down hair color, leading to faster fading. To safeguard your hair from the sun wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors.

By incorporating these tips into your hair care routine, you can effectively prolong the vibrancy of your hair color. Embrace healthy hair practices and choose products that support color retention for longer-lasting, vibrant hair.

For information on how to prevent brassy or warm hues, check out our detailed article: What are brassy or warm hues and how do I get rid of them?

Questions? A Naturtint USA Color Specialist is happy to help!