Essential Steps
Preparing for Hair Coloring
Instead of a color-depositing product, mix 1 to 2 drops of green hair dye with your regular conditioner for a DIY color-refreshing treatment.
Extend the time between hair washes as much as possible. Depending on your scalp's oil production, you might need to shampoo every other day or once weekly. Aim to stretch the time between washes to preserve your hair dye.
- You can train your scalp to produce less oil by sticking to a consistent wash schedule. After a month or two, your scalp will adapt, reducing oil production.
Tip: Utilize dry shampoo or baby powder on non-wash days to combat greasiness.
Opt for cold water when washing your hair. Hot water opens the hair cuticles, leading to color loss. Use cool or cold water during hair washing.
- If you dislike cold showers, consider washing your hair separately before turning on the shower.
Choose a color-safe shampoo designed for treated hair. Invest in shampoos and conditioners that preserve your hair color and maintain moisture. Look for products labeled as “color-safe” or “color-protecting.”
- Most beauty supply stores carry these products.
- Avoid clarifying shampoos as they can strip both color and natural oils from the hair.
Use a nourishing conditioner post-shampoo to seal in moisture. Shampooing often leads to dryness as it removes natural scalp oils. Apply conditioner to your hair ends after every wash, leaving it on for approximately 5 minutes before rinsing.
- For added moisture, incorporate a deep conditioner into your routine once weekly.
- Look for ingredients such as Argan oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil.
Opt for hair styling products free of silicones and sulfates. These substances can dehydrate your hair, leading to faster color fading. Choose products labeled as “silicone and sulfate-free” to ensure quality.
- Avoid products containing alcohol, as it also contributes to hair dryness.
- Seek products with natural, non-toxic ingredients.
Avoiding Damage
Gently blot wet hair with a towel to dry. Instead of vigorously rubbing your hair, softly squeeze the ends with a microfiber towel to prevent frizz and breakage.
- Vigorously rubbing hair with a towel can lead to damage and dryness.
- If a microfiber towel is unavailable, an old T-shirt can serve the same purpose.
Avoid using heat styling tools. Hair straighteners, curling irons, and hair dryers can all damage hair and accelerate color fading. Minimize their use throughout the week if possible.
Tip: Explore non-heat hair styling methods, such as braiding wet hair for waves or using curlers for voluminous curls.
Apply heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools. Prior to using a hair straightener, curling iron, or hair dryer, spray a fine mist of heat protectant onto your hair, allowing 30 seconds for it to dry. This provides a barrier between your hair and the heat.
- Heat protectant sprays are available at most beauty supply stores.
Use a swim cap in chlorinated pools. Chlorine can dry out hair and cause color stripping. Keep your hair protected by wearing a swim cap whenever you swim in a chlorinated pool, and remember to rinse your hair afterward.
- Extended exposure to chlorine can also alter the shade of dyed hair.
Shield your hair from the sun. If you anticipate spending more than 1 to 2 hours outdoors, apply a UV protectant spray to your hair or wear a hat. Ensure full coverage of your hair to prevent fading.
- UV protectant sprays are commonly found in beauty supply stores.
- Consider bringing a large umbrella to the beach or park for added protection.
Maintain regular trims to remove split ends. Schedule trims every 6 to 8 weeks at your salon to keep your hair healthy and prevent fading on the dry ends.
- For faster-growing hair, more frequent trims may be necessary. Consult your hairstylist for personalized advice.
Tips
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Maintaining green hair may seem daunting, but the stunning and attention-grabbing color makes it worthwhile in the end!
Essential Items
Dyeing Your Hair
- Nourishing conditioner
- Color-enhancing product
Washing Your Hair
- Shampoo and conditioner free of silicones and sulfates
Avoiding Damage
- Microfiber towel or old T-shirt
- Heat protectant spray
- Swim cap
- Hat, hood, or UV protectant spray