Everyone always wants to know how to protect their hair from fading. I think damage is one of the biggest factors in fading color. When the hair is not healthy and porous, the color just has nothing to stick to, so it fades right away. So how do you protect your color? Each color family has it’s own problems.

 Red:

 Red fades the fastest. Red starts off vibrant and shiny, but after a week or two, it fades and gets dull. It’s very important to use the right shampoo and conditioner. Stay away from highlights—too many highlights (especially done with bleach) will make your vibrant color fade faster. Normally I am not a fan of shampoos with color in them, but for reds I think it is a good idea to use something to keep the color fresh. Artec shampoos are great—but only pick a shade that looks natural. Stay far away from fake, intense colors.

 Blondes:

 More than fading, blondes can get brassy or dull. So what do you do? First of all, do a conditioning treatment 1-2 times a week. I love the PhytoNectar Oil. You can put it on dry hair and sleep with it overnight, then just wash it out in the morning. It helps to keep the hair healthy and shiny. If you feel your hair gets too orangey/brassy, it should help if you take your base color one shade darker. (Sometimes your hair is not meant to be that light.) You can always make the highlights lighter and you will appear blonder and less brassy.

Brunettes:

Brunettes have the hardest time with fading—especially if you are gray. Brown hair tends to turn reddish and less shiny. Use shampoos and conditioners that have the words “hydrate” or “moisturize” on the bottle. Brown hair can get dehydrated and look dry and brittle, but can also look shiny and silky if you tend to it properly. Also, always get a clear gloss after color.

xx, Rita Hazan