Secrets to Keeping Your Color

Coloring my hair has been practically a hobby of mine for awhile now. My sister, Nicole, and I joke that we never know what color each of us will have when we see each other! (We tend to stick to brunette shades, but there’s a lot of variety there!) And there is nothing more frustrating than watching those highlights you sprung for turn slowly orange.
What are the tricks of the trade?

1. PROTECT YOUR COLOR: Don’t wash every day – every wash strips your color. And always use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. These are essentially detergents that help to remove dirt and oils from your hair, but they can also slowly strip away hair color. The problem becomes even more pronounced if you use a clarifying shampoo which contains higher levels of sulfates. Use sulfide-free versions, such as L’Oreal Ever-Sleek or Pantene Pro-V Color Solutions line at the drug store. Or from a salon, try LiQWD or Neil George.

2. BABY YOUR COLOR: Use a color-sealing treatment once a week, which helps lock in color molecules. Try Pantene Pro-V Color Treatment: it helps to seal hair cuticles and repair the surface of damaged, porous fibers so that color fades less. This nourishing weekly treatment infuses hair with moisture for enhanced color and shine.

3. STYLE KINDLY: Products like hairspray and mousse are loaded with alcohol, so they will dry your hair out. Try products like Moroccan Oil for smoothing and protecting during your blow-drying and dry shampoo for adding texture and volume.