Coloured hair can be a fantastic way to express your style and personality. Whether you’ve gone for a bold, vibrant shade or subtle highlights, caring for dyed hair requires special attention to maintain both the colour and the health of your hair. Here’s a guide to keeping your coloured hair looking fresh, vibrant, and healthy for as long as possible.

1. Use Colour-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner

Ordinary shampoos can be harsh on coloured hair, stripping away the dye and dulling your vibrant shade. Invest in a quality, colour-safe shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for dyed hair (sulphate-free). These products are formulated to be gentler, helping to lock in the colour while providing essential moisture.

Brands We Recommend?: “Eufora, Sensus and Malibu C” – All three brand offer professional sulphate free haircare at different price points

2. Reduce How Often You Wash Your Hair

Frequent washing can lead to colour fading faster than you’d like. Ideally, aim to wash coloured hair only two to three times per week. This will help your colour last longer, as each wash removes a bit of the dye.

Top Tip:If your hair feels greasy or you’re in need of a refresh, use a dry shampoo to absorb oils without affecting your colour.

3. Avoid Hot Water

Hot water can cause hair cuticles to open, which makes it easier for dye molecules to escape. Stick to lukewarm water when washing your hair and rinse with cool water if you can tolerate it. The cool rinse helps seal the cuticles, keeping your hair smooth and helping to lock in the colour.

4. Protect Hair from Heat Styling

Heat styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and even hairdryers can cause damage to coloured hair, making it prone to dryness and dullness. If you must use heat tools, always apply a heat protectant spray first. This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat, minimising damage.

5. Deep Condition Regularly

Coloured hair is often more prone to dryness, so deep conditioning is essential. Use a deep conditioner or hair mask once a week to restore moisture and keep your hair feeling soft and healthy. Look for masks that are formulated for coloured hair, as they typically contain extra nourishing ingredients to help maintain both your colour and hair health.

Our Top Pick: “Eufora- Elixir Mask“

6. Protect Your Hair from Sun Exposure

The sun’s UV rays can fade hair colour just like it can fade fabrics. Prolonged exposure can leave your hair looking brassy or washed-out. If you’re spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with built-in UV protection. Some products are designed to protect coloured hair from environmental factors, which can be a great investment for sunny days.

Our Favourites: “Sensus- Thermo Milk“

7. Avoid Chlorine and Salt Water

Chlorine and salt water can be particularly harsh on coloured hair, stripping it of moisture and potentially causing your colour to fade. If you’re planning a swim, consider wearing a swimming cap to protect your hair. If that’s not an option, rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming – wetting it beforehand helps prevent it from absorbing as much chlorinated or salty water.

Top Tip: After swimming, always rinse your hair thoroughly before with fresh water to remove any chlorine or salt from penetrating the hair so much. Use “Malibu C- Swimmers Sachets” to remove any build up!

8. Use Colour-Boosting Products Between Salon Visits

Over time, all hair colour fades, but there are products available to help boost your shade between salon appointments. Colour-depositing shampoos and conditioners add a hint of pigment to your hair each time you use them, helping maintain that “just coloured” look. They’re especially effective for vibrant shades like red, copper, or purple, which tend to fade faster. 

We recommend: “Sensus- Fard Condtioner” 

9. Trim Regularly to Maintain Healthy Ends

Coloured hair can be more prone to split ends and dryness. Regular trims – every six to eight weeks – will help keep your ends looking fresh and prevent damage from travelling up the hair shaft. Healthy ends make your hair look shinier and more vibrant, helping your colour appear more polished.

10. Watch Out for Product Build-Up

Using too many styling products can lead to build-up, which can weigh down your hair and cause your colour to look dull. Consider using a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove any build-up. However, be cautious, as clarifying shampoos can be drying and strip out your colour faster!  If you find you have products/ colour build up, we always recommend Malibu C Crystal Gel Treatment in salon!

11. Be Mindful of Your Diet and Hydration

Finally, healthy hair starts from within. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health, such as biotin, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water will also help keep your hair looking shiny and healthy, which in turn enhances the appearance of your colour.

Final Thoughts

With the right care routine, coloured hair can look gorgeous, vibrant, and healthy for weeks to come. By following these simple tips, you’ll not only extend the life of your colour but also keep your hair in great condition. Remember, a little extra effort goes a long way in preserving that freshly coloured look – and your hair will thank you for it!