When you spend all that time and money at the salon, you want to protect your investment. But even with the best intentions, you can end up with highlights that fade fast or blonde that suddenly turns brassy. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to prevent slow color fade. “Technically speaking, colored hair has been chemically modified and damaged,” says Laura Luciani, Davines international scientific communication manager.
By using color-protecting products, you are protecting elasticity and the integrity of the fibers with amino acids and proteins, she says. It’s also important to protect color-treated hair from the sun and UV rays since they’re catalysts for color fade. ”Protecting your hair color starts in the shower, so be sure to use color-safe shampoos and conditioners. “The best shampoos and conditioners to use are the ones that are rich in antioxidants (to counteract UV rays) and nourishing ingredients, such as oils, butters or extracts,” Luciani says.
How to protect hair from sun and heat styling
Another culprit that can do major damage to hair is heat, whether from your heat-styling tools or the sun. Look for leave-in products that offer UV protection when you have some al fresco fun planned. A wide-brimmed hat is also your best friend. Heat can change or modify the color, so make sure you use your styling tools on a low temperature to protect your color, Luciani says. “You can offset this by making sure you use a heat protecting spray like the MELU Hair Shield, which helps to provide a barrier between your hair and hot tools for a healthier styling experience.”
Just as you protect your skin from damage by slathering on sunscreen and regularly moisturizing, you should protect your hair, too. “The best way to keep hair color looking fresh is to use products that protect it while being exposed to the sun and chlorine—this way it doesn’t fade or change,” Luciani says. “Specific attention is needed, sometimes simple actions, but they all make a difference in how hair color looks and feels.”