Fall is right around the corner, and it’s always a good time to think of new styles for your hair. A good way to transition into a new season is with a new look, and what better way to add some flavor to your look than with a pop of color. But before you add chemicals to your hair, take the following precautions to keep your hair healthy along the way.
Healthy hair is a must
If you’ve already been having hair issues, including breakage and trouble with retaining moisture, then it may not be a good time to dye your hair. Coloring your hair will require specific maintenance and comes with its own risks for damage. It’s unfair to count on your stylist to do everything. Going into an appointment to have your hair dyed involves making sure you also do your part to prep your hair. Have an honest conversation with your stylist to make sure your hair is healthy enough for the coloring process. If not, the results can be disastrous and irreversible.
Leave it to the professionals
This sounds like a no brainer, but I am shocked at how many people dye their hair themselves, even if it's not a permanent dye job. You may not think it's rocket science and be tempted to simply follow the instructions on the back of the box, but there are certain things a professional will be able to do that you don’t have the knowledge of. As a reminder, there’s a preparation process that goes into dying your hair. Utilizing the expertise of a professional is your best bet, even if you know how to do your own hair. Dyeing your own hair is not a science project that any stylist would recommend trying at home.
Make sure the dye doesn't have harmful ingredients
The hair color used should be infused with ingredients to help protect hair against potential damage. It’s also not necessary to always use permanent hair color, as there are semi- or demi-permanent formula options that require minimal upkeep. Make sure there are key ingredients in the hair color, including a moisturizing and conditioning component. Remember, that color takes time to fully process, so you’ll be sitting with it in your hair for some time before shampooing it out to see your finished product. It’d be horrible if you end up like Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It’, with her hair falling out from the hair color as the stylist washes it out. Leave it to the pros!
Use recommended products for color-treated hair
This also seems like a no brainer, but your hair will require additional care after your color appointment. There are specific shampoo and conditioning treatments you’ll need to preserve your color, and special products that work best for color-treated hair. Speak with your stylist about the recommended products and how often you should shampoo and condition your hair.
Limit hair manipulation after your color service
Any chemical treatment can be tough on your hair, depending on the products used and your upkeep process. Avoid styling your hair often, and limit heat styling specifically. Give your hair enough time to adjust and ensure your hair is in a healthy state before overdoing it on styling or any other major changes.
