Proper maintenance is key

Experimenting with your hair color can be a fun way to change up your look or get through a stifled style period. While it's often much cheaper than shelling out for a new wardrobe, coloring your hair is still an investment, and you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible, which means knowing when to wash your hair after coloring, and if you should wash your hair before dyeing it.

How Long to Wait to Wash Hair After Coloring

So if you've ever wondered, "Can I wash my hair 24 hours after dyeing it?" you have your answer, once and for all. Jade Kromer, a hair-color specialist, says that you can wash your hair as soon as you need to (although you likely won't need to that day if you're coming fresh from the salon). "Washing your hair right after you color it really isn't the problem," she says. "Focus more on what products you're using rather than time in between shampoos."

Why Is My Color Fading?

When it comes to hair dye, it's much more important to prevent the dye from leaching out than it is to let it "set" in your hair initially. Each strand of hair is surrounded by the cuticle, which is what traps the color in. When you wash your hair, particularly in hot water, you risk opening up the cuticle and letting the color bleed out. Palmer recommended washing colored hair in cooler water: "That makes your hair cuticle stay closed and keeps your hair color trapped inside the strands of hair. Warm water makes the cuticle more likely to open and let the color out, which is why color fades so fast."

How to Keep Your Hair Color Vibrant

If a cold shower doesn't sound appealing to you, you can also wash your hair less frequently and try to avoid water that's steaming hot. Additionally, the type of shampoo, conditioner, and products you use at home can make a big difference in how long your color lasts. Drugstore shampoos may have chemicals in them that are linked to fading of professional hair color. Investing in high-quality hair care can help your color last longer.

Should You Wash Your Hair Before Dyeing It?

Your colorist will have already washed your hair before dyeing it, so there's no need to do it again. However, if you need to wash your hair after the salon, use cooler water and quality products for your hair type. Washing no more than three times per week with cooler water and the right products can help maintain your color. Using a hair-color mask regularly can also prevent dullness.

Do You Need Shampoo to Rinse Out Hair Dye?

If you're dyeing your hair at home, simply rinse it out with cold water until the water runs completely clear. From there, you can shampoo with your typical product and then follow up with a conditioner. Some manufacturers' instructions may require forgoing shampoo after dyeing your hair, so make sure to read the instructions on the product you're using.

Remember, proper maintenance and using the right products are key to keeping your hair color vibrant and preventing fading. With these tips, you can enjoy your new hair color for longer!

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