Shampooing
Before Color – Do not have your hair colored if your hair is clean. Actually, you should not shampoo your hair for 24 to 48 hours before the color is added. The reason is that you need your scalp to have some natural oils present, which helps the color adhere better. Additionally, with an unwashed scalp, the color will penetrate deeper into the hair follicles, making it last longer. In addition to an unwashed scalp helping the color stay, it will also act as a protective barrier so that your head does not become irritated from the chemicals in hair color. Therefore, the longer you can go without washing your hair before you have color applied the better.
Color Glaze or Gloss – Ask your colorist about having glaze, or gloss applied to your hair at the time of coloring. In addition to extending the life of your hair’s color, this will also seal the hair’s cuticle. You can choose from a semi-permanent gloss that is applied with or without heat, both helping extend the color in a safe and healthy manner. These treatments also give your hair more shine, producing a beautiful color reflection.
Conditioning – A minimum of once a week, you should use a deep conditioner that is made for colored hair. This will help maintain the color and strength the hair.
Sunshine – When out in the sun, wear a cap or hat to protect your colored hair. Ask your colorist about Aveda’s Suncare Protective Veil product to help keep the sun from fading your color. This is a relatively new product and is very effective
