It’s amazing how something as simple as half a head of highlights can make you feel so complete, but sadly the glossy post-salon mane is often short-lived.
Even if you rarely dye your hair and have forked out for a professional colorist, there’s still a chance your once-shiny strands will eventually become dry and fragile from the dye.
“The hair is made from acid-based keratin and lightening products are alkaline,” explains Goldwell Kerasilk U.K. guest artist, Lisa Whiteman. “Like our nails when we use acetone to remove gels or acrylics, it wears out each layer of the hairs surface and this will make the hair look dull, dry and break if over colored.”
It’s possible to repair the wreckage, but the bad news is that it will take a while to restore hair back to health.
“Once the damage is done it can only be reconstructed with keratin-based lab products. The damaged hair will have to be cut or regrown from the root,” Lisa says.
The first step is to avoid heated styling tools for the indefinite, as well as swimming pools, intense sun, and extreme weather conditions.
“Also make sure to use gentle shampoos when shampooing your hair and check that the shampoo is PH balanced,” she adds. “These can all make the hair condition worse or make the hair very difficult to manage.”
And when it comes to washing and styling, take it easy.
“It’s important not to over wash, color or brush hair,” warns celebrity hairstylist Phil Smith. “Brush hair with a wide tooth comb and never when wet because this will damage color treated hair even more, as it will have lost elasticity.”
Jason Hogan, celebrity and associate colorist at Josh Wood Atelier also believes it’s worth adding a few extra steps to your hair care routine.
“A pre-shampoo treatment (Philip Kingsley Elasticizer is my favorite) is a great way to work that extra nourishment with minimal fuss. Slather on this rich oil cream emulsion before bed, topknot and rinse in the morning,” he suggests.
“And I always recommend a treatment mask every time you wash your hair in place of conditioner,” the expert continues. “These have more of the essential ingredients hair needs to maintain its luster. Shampoo and towel dry, apply through mids and ends with a tangle teaser to coat each strand, leave for a few minutes and rinse. Oribe Shampoo and Masque for Beautiful Color are divine!”
However, Jason is adamant that prevention is always better than cure when it comes to hair health.
“Listen to your colorist for the recommended home care for your hair type and color process,” he insists.
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