Thinking of adding some “wow” to your style? Colour is an easy way to personalize a style and what better way to do so than to  colour  your hair? If you are wondering what life is like after colouring, here are a few tips, pointers and some advice to answer some colour questions.

Washing Coloured Hair

For the first 48 hours after getting your colour done, avoid washing your hair. If you have only parts of your hair coloured, try to shampoo around those parts. You can keep your hair out of the water by wearing a ponytail, bun or even a shower cap. (Don’t worry Gents, we won’t tell anyone.) Why avoid shampoo at this time? Shampoo can take the fresh colour out of your hair.

Caring for Coloured Blue braids

When it is time, use shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for dyed, or “colour-treated,” hair. Shampoo only your scalp, then condition the lengths of the hair. The conditioner should be a moisturizing one as coloured hair is often dry. Washing your hair less will help it retain more natural oils, keeping the hair healthier. Sometimes, simply skip the shampoo and just use conditioner.

This may not be as enjoyable as you’d like, but it is recommended to  wash your hair in the coolest water you can handle. This will help you skin and complexion as well as your hair.

What to Avoid

With colour hair, try to avoid heavy soaps with chlorine. Anything with chlorine or sulphates can strip hair colour and should be left on the shelf.  There are sulphate-free products, so this is a good time to start reading labels. Clarifying shampoo isn’t the best for coloured hair, so you can leave that alone too.

Extended time in the sun, water and wind should also be avoided. They can cause dryness and fading. This doesn’t mean don’t enjoy the outdoors, just be prepared. Sun can be regarded as a natural bleach, so if you want your colour to be and stay vibrant, wear hats or scarves to protect it. Search for UV protection products for your skin and hair.

Do not flat iron wet hair. You can burn your hair and it will die. Prevent such tragedy with a weekly hair mask to retain moisture. Also use heat-protection products if you use a lot of hearing utensils. Avoid the hottest setting on the hair dryer, and go for the coldest.

Hairstylist Advice

It is always a good idea to have a professional hairstylist colour your hair. They will be able to suggest the best quality product and colour for your hair’s texture and style. Try vegetable dyes as they aren’t as drying as some other types. Regular trims will keep your colour and cut looking sharp.

Once dyed and dried, seal the colour by using a flat-iron. Re-colour your hair no more than once a month. You don’t want to dye your tresses too often or you’ll damage your hair. It will break, split and tangle easier than normal. It will lose shine, body, luster and overall health. No one wants dull, frizzy hair. Bleached and coloured hair needs extra care, brush gently.

Some stylists suggest leave-in conditioner, and to have deep-conditioning treatments to add luster and a healthy look. Most deep conditioners get washed out after 30 minutes, but keep in mind that time can change with different products.

Always talk to your hairstylist if you have any concerns or questions. Stylists will be thrilled to help you create a signature colour or look.

Anything Else?

Eat a healthy diet. It sounds amazingly simple, but it is the most important piece of advice. You need to eat right so your body can grow the best hair possible. Include iron-rich foods like lean meat, fish, eggs, spinach (yes it IS good for you,) fruits, nuts and vegetables. You can take vitamins if needed.  Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

Sometimes it takes while to trust a stylist enough to have them colour your hair. At salons like Haircutie, trained stylists are always updating their skills to create your special look with colour and style. They will offer advice on managing and keeping your coloured hair healthy. Their experience says it all. They are here for you, and your hair.