From spacing out washes to avoiding the sun like the plague, many women are willing to go to extreme lengths to go longer in between color touch-ups. But are your experimental methods actually working or are you doing your hair a major injustice in the long run? We’re breaking down our fave tried-and-true tips for keeping your color looking fresh for as long as possible.
Tip # 1: Purple shampoo and conditioner should be every blonde’s BFF
If you decided to go lighter, chances are, you’re ready and willing to do anything possible to keep brassy tones at bay. However, if you haven’t made the long-term commitment to a purple toning shampoo and conditioner (because two is always better than one), then you’ll probably need to schedule your color touch-up ASAP—otherwise, you run the risk of rocking orange-toned locks. Utilizing a violet-infused formula regularly (1-2 times a week) is the only way to maintain your blonde without the help of your colorist.
Try:
Redken Color Extend Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo & Conditioner
Tip #2: Turn down the heat
If only you had a nickel for every time your colorist told you to lay off the heat styling! And while she has a point, there is another sneaky culprit damaging your color: the shower! Scorching-hot water lifts the outer hair cuticle, causing your color to prematurely fade. When rinsing, stick with warm water, then turn up the heat as you allow the conditioner to sit in your hair. Or, even better, rinse with cool water to add softness and shine.
Tip #3: Stop washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo
Yes, it’s a good idea to deep clean your scalp every once in a while, especially if you’re a dry shampoo junkie. However, many clarifying shampoos contain acetic acid, the acid naturally found in vinegar that allows it to remove build-up and impurities. Though effective, acetic acid will also quickly strip your color. Your best bet? Stick with a gentle detoxifying shampoo strictly formulated for colored strands.
Tip #4: Deep condition regularly
Over-processing can leave your hair looking dry, dull and brittle. To keep your locks looking fresh, integrate an array of conditioning treatments into your haircare routine. Use a deep conditioner at least 1-2 times a week, and use a nourishing leave-in treatment designed to lock in strength, softness, and shine.
Try:
Redken Color Extend Magnetics Mega Mask and Redken One United
Tip #5: Reduce washes—but don’t go too long in between shampoos
Limiting your washes to a couple of times a week will help you go longer in between appointments. However, going too many days without shampooing can leave your color looking dull, lifeless and flat. Instead, create a wash routine that works for your specific hair type, ideally 2-3 times a week for fine, straight and/or oily strands, or 1-2 times a week for those with dry, textured and/or thick locks. To help enhance your style and extend your blowout, add dry shampoo to your routine.
Try:
Redken Dry Shampoo Powder 02 or Redken Triple Dry 15
For more color formulas, tips, and tricks visit www.redkensalon.com/, follow along and tag us in your creations on social media @Redken!
