We understand the frustration of watching your vibrant hair colour gradually fade away.

Hair colour fading is sadly part of life if you dye your hair. But with the right knowledge, products and a little love, you can keep your hair colour looking vibrant and fresh for longer. 

In this article, we'll explore the main causes of hair colour fading, our organic-friendly approach to hair care and essential tips and products to use to maintain your vibrant hair colour - from heat protector to shampoo for coloured hair. Discover the secrets to long-lasting, beautiful hair colour, no matter the shade.

Why Hair Colour Fading Happens

Hair colour fading is a natural process influenced by factors like water, UV rays and chemical exposure. But the main culprit is the condition of your hair! 

When you dye your hair, the colour fades over time, even if you use shampoo for coloured hair. The question is how long can your hair last at its most vibrant?

The cuticle's role: Did you know that the hair's outer layer, known as the cuticle, opens during washing? This opening allows colour molecules to escape, leading to hair colour fading. Think of it like a colander – if your hair cuticles have holes, they can't hold the colour. That's why repairing (filling in the holes)-‘a  bringing them back to the right pH level is crucial - this closes the cuticles so less colour molecules escape. Using products like heat protectant spray and shampoo for coloured or damaged hair help with this.

UV effects: Sunlight and UV radiation can break down the chemical bonds formed by dye molecules, causing gradual colour loss. Protecting your hair from the sun is essential for maintaining vibrant colour.

Chemical treatments: Excessive use of harsh chemicals, including exposure to chlorine and saltwater, can accelerate the hair colour fading process. This is why at Love Hair, we opt for products that use less harsh chemicals and we are proud to say that our salon is equipped with ECOHEADS shower heads that soften and filter the water that we use.

Three Contributing Factors to Hair Colour Fading

Heat: Heat can fade your colour. That's why it's important to use a heat protectant spray or any heat protector when styling your hair. At Love Hair, we use Kevin Murphy’s Heat Defence as a heat protector, which uses less harsh chemicals while protecting your hair. Also investing in higher quality styling tools that don't get too hot will help reduce hair colour fading. 

Environmental factors: Apart from heat, environmental factors like sunlight can also cause hair colour fading. If you're spending time outdoors, consider wearing a hat or using SPF specifically formulated for your hair. Protecting your hair from the sun's harmful rays is a great way to maintain your colour.

Chemical treatments and water quality: Hard water and hot water during washing can strip away the colour, hastening fading. Take note of the water quality and temperature when washing your hair. Additionally, certain chemical treatments, like a keratin treatment, can affect your hair colour. It's essential to seek advice on whether these treatments should be done before or after your colour application. 

That’s why we always have a consultation with each client before you embark on any hair treatment or hair dyeing process. This allows us to manage expectations and explain the maintenance process, including how long your hair will realistically remain vibrant.

Tips For Vibrant Colour Maintenance

Maintaining vibrant hair colour requires some extra TLC, especially for those of you rocking bold vibrant hues. To guide you along your vibrant hair journey, here are some maintenance tips to prevent hair colour fading.

• Choose less harsh chemicals: Opt for hair dyes with less chemicals that create lasting colour changes without compromising hair health. Hair health is paramount if you want to maintain its colour. That’s why at Love Hair, we prioritise organic ingredients where possible, that are kind to your hair and the environment. 
• Use a heat protector daily: Heat, environmental factors and chemical treatments can lead to hair colour fading fast. Protect your hair from heat using a heat protectant spray. Wear hat or SPF to protect your hair and limit exposure to hair treatments that use harsh chemicals.
• Embrace air-drying: Minimise heat styling by embracing air-drying or opt for heat-free styling techniques whenever possible.
• Gentle hair care routine: Use sulphate-free and colour-safe products. At Love Hair, we use the Kevin Murphy Everlasting colour range. They carry colour-safe products, particularly a shampoo for coloured hair, that are specifically intended for closing the cuticle and bringing down the PH level. 
• Rinse with cool water: Ending your hair washing routine with a cool water rinse helps close the cuticle, sealing in your colour and leaving your hair shiny and vibrant. Use a shower filter if possible. This helps remove sediments that may otherwise harm your hair and makes the water “softer” in texture.
• Get personalised advice: Not all hair is the same. Our expert stylists provide personalised advice on the best colour and maintenance routine for your hair. Our consultation even includes a discussion on what hair colour would suit your skin tone best.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Hair colour fading has a lot to do with hydration and the condition of your hair so keeping it nourished is paramount. The Re-store, colour range and Olaplex products offer treatment, conditioner, and shampoo for coloured hair that not only hydrates but protects your hair. Olaplex, in particular, fixes broken bonds in the hair, which creates more bonds for the colour to attach to. 
• Maintain according to your colour: The more vibrant the colour, the more maintenance it requires. With a more natural colours, you'll need fewer salon visits since there won't be a harsh regrowth line. Maintain your hair and schedule your salon appointments for regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to ensure fresh and vibrant hair colour. 

Conclusion

Maintaining a vibrant hair colour requires a little extra effort, but it's definitely attainable. By understanding the process behind hair colour fading, choosing the right products, scheduling regular touch-ups and protecting the hair with a heat protector, you're taking the necessary steps to preserve the vibrancy of your hair colour.

Embrace your vibrant hair this 2024 and let it shine with confidence!