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Photo Credit: Idhren at Flickr[/caption] Hair dye can add verve and shine to your look, and allow you to play with your style and perhaps even express your personality. However, there is no denying that it can also give your locks a dry, dull look, especially as the color fades. There is no need to anguish over this reality as there are certain steps you can take to maintain a full head of healthy curls.
- Avoid washing your hair until at least 48 hours after your dye, as this provides your strands the necessary time to build up natural, protective oils.
Even after this initial period, it is unnecessary to wash your hair every day. Even after the two days, avoid shampoos that have “clarifying” properties or get rid of dandruff, as these are especially harsh. As important as it is to find conditioners and washes that cater to preserving color, the true culprit is the water itself. As the dye strips away the protective oils, it makes hair more susceptible and the water easily rinses out the color molecules. To minimize this, elect to use warm water instead of that of a hotter temperature, as heat weakens the strands’ hold on the hue. Dry shampoo is a great tool to extend the time between wetting your tresses.
- Diminish heat damage in its many forms. If you have the time to spare, let your tresses air dry until they’re only slightly damp and then use a blow dryer to finish the job and
style your look. Additionally, consider applying products that help to insulate your cuticles from the otherwise blistering temperature of hot tools. On days with plenty of direct sun, either wear a covering or applying protective sprays with SPF (and always wear a swimming cap when swimming as chlorine is a dye job’s worse nightmare). Plus, there are plenty of leave-in conditioners and masks that will help to seal in moisture.
- Finally, choosing the right shade can help to maintain your hair’s natural shine. When you drastically deviate away from your natural color, it can really do a number on your particles, especially when bleach is involved. One alternative to consider is to choose demi-permanent color as it utilizes less chemicals.