7 Tips to Keep Color Treated Hair Healthy
How To Maintain Color Treated Hair
Have you considered dyeing your hair but you’re scared your hair will fall out? Or dry out? Or both?!
While it can be exciting to experiment with different colors, maintaining color treated hair requires extra care and attention. This is because the chemicals used in hair dyes can strip the natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and dullness.
If you’re thinking about color, I recommend consulting with a professional. There is science to hair color so if you want to avoid a bad dye job, find a trained stylist who knows which color process will be best for your individual hair type and texture.
To keep your colored locks looking vibrant and healthy, it is important to follow a proper hair care routine. In this guide, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to maintain color treated hair, including the best products and practices to protect your colored locks.
What is Color Treated Hair?
Color treated hair refers to any type of hair that has been chemically dyed or altered. This can include permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary dyes, as well as highlights and balayage. Hair coloring involves the use of chemicals such as ammonia and hydrogen peroxide to lift the natural pigment from your hair shaft and deposit new color molecules. This process can be damaging to your hair, as it removes not only the color but also the natural oils that keep your hair healthy and shiny.
Color treated hair requires special care and attention because it is more fragile and prone to damage. The chemicals used in hair dyes can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to breakage, split ends, and dryness. Therefore, it is essential to follow a proper hair care routine to maintain the health and vibrancy of your colored locks.
How to maintain hair color for longer
After investing time and money into coloring your hair, the last thing you want is for the color to fade quickly. Here are some tips on how to maintain hair color for longer:
Wash your hair less
Washing your hair every day can strip away the natural oils and color from your hair, leading to dryness and fading. It is generally recommended to wash colored curly hair no more than 1-2 times a week.
However, this may vary depending on your hair type and personal preference. If you have oily hair, you may need to wash it more frequently. In this case, opt for a mild shampoo specifically designed for colored hair and follow up with a nourishing conditioner.
On the other hand, if you have dry or curly hair, washing it every day may not be necessary. Instead, focus on keeping your hair hydrated with leave-in conditioners and masks.
Ultimately, the key is to find a washing routine that works for your hair type and lifestyle. But remember, less is more when it comes to washing colored hair. And always follow up with a color safe conditioner to help preserve your hair's color and health. So while you may be tempted to wash your colored hair every day, it's best to stick to a consistent and gentle washing routine to maintain the vibrancy and health of your color treated hair.
Use Color Safe Shampoos and Conditioners
Color safe shampoos and conditioners are specially formulated for color treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle on your hair while still effectively cleansing and nourishing it. They also contain ingredients that help seal the hair cuticle, locking in the color and preventing it from fading.
When choosing a color safe shampoo and conditioner, look for products that are sulfate-free and contain ingredients like keratin, coconut milk, and bentonite clay. These will help keep your hair hydrated and healthy, while also preserving the color.
Avoid Hot Showers and Styling Tools
Hot water can strip away the natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness and fading of color. It is best to avoid washing your hair with hot water, and instead use lukewarm or cool water. This will also help keep your scalp healthy and prevent irritation.
In addition, styling tools such as blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can also cause damage to color treated hair. The high heat can strip away the color and cause breakage and frizz. If you must use these tools, make sure to apply a heat protectant product beforehand and use them on a lower heat setting.
Limit Sun Exposure
Just like how the sun can damage our skin, it can also cause harm to color treated hair. UV rays can cause the color molecules in your hair to break down, leading to fading and dullness. To protect your hair from the sun, wear a hat or use hair products that contain UV protection.
Keep Your Hair Cuticles Closed
The cuticle is the protective outer layer of your hair shaft. When it is closed, it helps keep moisture and color locked into your hair. However, heat styling, harsh chemicals, and even brushing can cause the cuticle to open, making your hair more susceptible to damage and color fading.
To keep your cuticles closed, use a deep conditioning treatment once a week and avoid over-brushing or using harsh chemicals on your hair.
Rinse with Cold Water
After shampooing and conditioning, rinse your hair with cold water. This will help seal the cuticle and lock in moisture, keeping your hair hydrated and vibrant. It may be uncomfortable at first, but the benefits for your hair are worth it.
Use Heat Protectant Products
As mentioned earlier, heat styling tools can cause damage to color treated hair. To minimize this damage, always use a heat protectant product before using any heat styling tools. These products create a barrier between your hair and the high heat, helping to prevent color fading and breakage.
In addition to these tips, it is also important to regularly trim your hair to get rid of split ends and maintain its health. Remember, healthy hair is the key to vibrant and long-lasting color. So next time you plan on coloring your hair, make sure to follow these tips and maintain your gorgeous locks.
FAQs
Is it okay to dye your hair at home?
In general, it's safer to get your hair dyed by a professional hairstylist. They have the knowledge and experience to properly mix and apply the dye, reducing the risk of damage or incorrect color results. If you do decide to dye your hair at home, make sure to carefully follow instructions and choose high-quality products. You can also consult with a hairstylist beforehand for tips and advice.
How often should I touch up my roots?
The frequency of root touch-ups depends on the individual's hair growth rate and desired look. On average, it's recommended to get your roots touched up every 4-6 weeks. However, if you have a faster hair growth rate or want to maintain a more precise color, you may need to touch up every 2-3 weeks.
Can I dye my hair if it's damaged?
It's generally not recommended to dye damaged hair, as the chemicals can further weaken and damage the already compromised strands. It's best to wait until your hair is healthy again before dyeing it. In the meantime, focus on nourishing and repairing your hair with deep conditioning treatments and avoiding heat styling tools.
Conclusion
Dyeing your hair can be a fun and exciting way to change up your look. However, it's important to take proper care of your colored locks to keep them healthy, vibrant, and strong. With the right products, techniques, and maintenance routine, you can rock any color with confidence!
Additionally, don't be afraid to consult with a professional hairstylist for personalized advice and recommendations. They can help you achieve your desired color while minimizing damage and keeping your hair in top shape. Remember to always listen to your hair's needs and give it the TLC it deserves. Happy coloring!