Colour Fade

Colour Fade: Causes, Effects, and Prevention

Colour fading is a common concern for anyone who colours their hair. Over time, vibrant colours can lose their luster, turning your stunning new shade into a less vibrant version of its former self. In this post, we’ll explore what causes colour fade, how it affects your hair, and give you tips on how to prevent it.

What Causes Colour Fade?

Colour fade can be influenced by several factors:

• Hair Porosity: Highly porous hair absorbs colour quickly but also loses it quickly. Porosity increases with the use of heat styling tools and chemical processes.
• Quality of Hair Colour and Products: Not all hair colours and products are created equal. Some contain harsh chemicals that can strip colour away, especially cheaper or non professional products.
• Exposure to Sunlight: UV rays can break down the chemical bonds in hair colour, leading to rapid colour loss.
• Frequent Washing: Washing your hair too often can strip away colour due to the harsh chemicals found in some shampoos and the simple act of water flushing through the hair.
• Chlorine and Salt Water: Swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater can cause your hair colour to fade quickly, as these can strip away natural oils that protect your hair.
• Heat Styling: Regular use of hot styling tools (like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons) can massively  accelerate colour fade.

How Does Colour Fade Affect the Hair?

Colour fading not only affects the aesthetic of your hair but can also impact hair health. Frequent colouring and the subsequent fading process can lead to:

• Dryness and Brittleness: As colour fades, hair often becomes drier and more brittle due to the loss of natural oils and moisture.
• Split Ends and Breakage: The weakened hair structure may result in increased split ends and breakage.
• Dullness: Faded hair often looks less shiny and vibrant, which can make your overall hair appearance look less healthy.

How to Prevent Colour Fade

Here are some effective ways to prevent your hair colour from fading too quickly:

• Use Colour-Protecting Products: Invest in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments specifically formulated for colour-treated hair. These products help seal in color and provide extra hydration. We sell a wide range of professional products in salon and online, if you need any help, just get in touch!
• Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can open up the hair cuticle, allowing colour to wash out. Opt for lukewarm water instead. (This is also muhc kinder to your scalp!)
• Wash Less Frequently: Try to extend the time between washes to prevent stripping your colour. Use dry shampoo to keep your hair fresh on non-wash days.
• Cover Up: When going out in the sun, wear a hat to protect your hair from UV damage. There are many hair products now available that contain UV protection!
• Lower the Heat: Use heat styling tools on a lower setting and always apply a heat protectant before styling to minimise damage.
• Regular Trims: Keeping your hair trimmed and healthy reduces the risk of dry, split ends and helps maintain the overall health of your hair.
• Use a Hair Mask Weekly: A deep conditioning mask once a week can help replenish moisture and nutrients, keeping your hair vibrant and less susceptible to fading.

By understanding what causes colour fade and how to prevent it, you can keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy for longer. Remember, the best way to maintain your colour is to start with healthy hair practices at home between salon visits!