Hair Colour Aftercare

Have you ever noticed your hair colour has faded quicker than you'd like or expect? A few simple changes in your hair care routine could prolong the longevity of colour and condition of your hair.

Firstly, when you have your hair coloured, your hair's cuticles open in order for the colour molecules to be deposited into each strand. We advise not to wash your hair for at least 48 hours after colouring, this gives time for the cuticles to close, locking in your colour. Washing directly after your colour service may cause some of the colour to be washed out of your hair. Similarly, the use of hot tools, such as straightening irons and curling tongs within the 48 hour period should be avoided as this can pull the colour out of your hair.

Secondly, a switch to sulphate free shampoos and conditioners is key to ensuring that your colours lifespan is prolonged.

Sulphates are the agent which help products to lather up; however, not many people realise the effects sulphates can have on their hair and scalp. They're inexpensive to use in shampoos, which explains why more than 90% of shampoos contain them. Certain sulphates are also found in most household cleaning products. Would you want these on your hair?

There are many negative effects sulphates can cause to your hair and scalp including fading your colour. They are an aggressive cleanser and will strip the colour out of your hair which you have spent your hard earned money on. A keratin treatment can also be removed from your hair within 3 washes with a shampoo and conditioner containing sulphates.

Sulphates also remove your natural oils, causing your hair and scalp to dry out and can worsen dandruff and eczema. Your hair follicles may also become corroded and damaged, contributing to hair loss.

Making a switch to a sulphate free shampoo and conditioner may cost you more than the supermarket brands, but the benefits will far outweigh the cost and will prolong your colour, and keep your hair and scalp healthy. That's a saving in itself!
We only stock KEVIN.MURPHY shampoos and conditioners which are all sulphate free, and should form part of your home care regime if you want the best from your colour. These are highly concentrated, packed with natural ingredients and essential oils, and when used correctly should last you a considerable amount of time. Not only this, they are also paraben free (a chemical preservative which can be damaging to health) and cruelty free!

Clients who use sulphate free products are getting better results from their colour services, and the overall health of hair has improved. Speak to your stylist about making the switch if you haven't already.