If you’ve ever had your hair colored at a salon, you may have wondered why they make you wash it afterward. It seems like an extra step that isn’t really necessary. Well, as it turns out, there is a science behind why your hair is washed after coloring.

In this blog post, we will explore why salons insist on washing your hair after they color it and how long you should wait before washing it yourself!

How does hair coloring work?

Hair coloring is a process in which dyes are applied to the hair in order to change its color. The color of the hair is determined by how much melanin it contains, and when cosmetic dyes are applied, they either add or subtract from the amount of melanin in each strand of hair.

This can be done by directly applying the dye to the hair (known as permanent coloring) or by using a semi-permanent coloration process that gradually fades over time.

Why is my hair color fading?

One of the reasons why hair color fades is because it can be difficult to get the dye all the way down to the scalp. This means that some of the dye will inevitably wash away each time you shampoo your hair. In addition, many dyes contain harsh chemicals that can strip away natural oils from the hair, which can also lead to fading.

Why do salons wash your hair after coloring?

There are a number of reasons why salons rinse your hair after dyeing it.

These include:

To remove excess dye

Salons wash your hair after coloring to remove any excess dye that may have been applied. This ensures that the freshly dyed hair has been evenly distributed throughout the hair and that none of it has been left behind. It also helps to prevent any harsh chemicals from remaining on the scalp and causing irritation.

To seal the color

Salons often wash your hair after coloring to seal the color. This helps to lock the freshly dyed color in place so that it doesn’t fade away as quickly. This can be done by using a special shampoo or conditioner that is designed to help keep the color looking vibrant for longer.

To treat and restore moisture

When a salon prepares your hair for the next treatment, they will not only wash out any excess dye that may have been applied, but they may also apply a conditioner that helps to nourish the hair and restore any lost moisture. This will help prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle, which can lead to further damage.

To relax you

When it comes to why salons wash your hair after coloring, one of the main reasons is to relax you. After all, having your hair dyed can be a stressful experience, and being able to take a few minutes in the shampoo chair while they massage your head can help calm your nerves.

To introduce you to new products

A trip to the salon for a hair coloring procedure can be more than just a relaxing experience. After your stylist has transformed your tresses, they may introduce you to some of their favorite shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. This is a great way for them to expand their customer base and try out new products.

Should hair be washed before or after coloring?

When it comes to coloring your hair, it’s important to know whether you should wash it before or after the process. Salons only rinse your hair to remove excess hair dye and to check the color. Generally speaking, most salons and hair professionals recommend that you wait at least two days after coloring your hair before washing it.

This helps to ensure that the color will last longer, as any shampooing before then can strip away some of the dye. If your stylist has used a semi-permanent coloration process, you may be able to wash your hair the same day, but it’s best to check with them first.

Can I wash my hair immediately after coloring it?

Both yes and no. It is better if hair professionals rinse your hair after coloring for the best results. But after the salon visit, it is not recommended to wash your hair immediately after coloring.

Hair color is a chemical process and the fresh dye needs time to properly lock itself in place before it can be washed away. It is also important to use mild shampoo and lukewarm water when washing your hair after coloring, as this can help reduce fading and maintain the vibrancy of your hair color.

How long should you wait to wash your hair after coloring it?

People who have had their hair dyed should wait at least two days before shampooing their tresses, as any washing done before then can strip off some of the colors. Those who have had semi-permanent color applied can usually get away with washing their hair the same day, but it’s still best to check with their stylist first.

How to Wash Hair After Dyeing It at Home

When washing hair after dyeing it at home, there are several steps to follow to ensure a successful and long-lasting color. Firstly, it is important to wait for two days (or more depending on the type of dye used) before washing the hair. This will help lock in the color and prevent any fading or discoloration.

When it’s time to finally shampoo and condition the hair, be sure to use an only mild shampoo and lukewarm water. It is also best to avoid using any other styling products or heated tools for at least a week after dyeing your hair. Taking these steps can help ensure that your newly dyed hair looks its best for longer.

Dos and Don’ts of Washing Your Hair After Color

By following these dos and don’ts when washing your hair after coloring, you can be sure that your freshly dyed locks will stay vibrant.

Dos

• Best to have the procedure done professionally, so they can rinse your hair the best way.
• Wait at least two days after coloring before shampooing your hair.
• Use mild shampoo and lukewarm water when washing your hair.
• Avoid using any other styling products or heated tools for at least a week after dyeing your hair.
• After washing your hair, apply a deep conditioning treatment to help lock in the color.

Don’ts

• Don’t wash your hair immediately after it is colored.
• Don’t use hot water when shampooing and conditioning your hair.
• Never use harsh shampoo or styling products that contain alcohol.
• Don’t use a towel to dry your hair, as this can cause damage and fading of the color. Instead, opt for an old t-shirt or paper towel.

Can you wash your hair after highlights?

Yes, you can wash your hair after getting highlights. However, you should wait at least two days before doing so to allow the color to be properly set and lock in place. Additionally, when washing your hair after highlights, it is important to use mild shampoo and lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can cause the highlights to fade, so it is best to avoid it.

After washing your hair, you should also apply a deep conditioning treatment to help nourish and protect your highlights. These tips will ensure your newly highlighted hair will stay looking its best for longer.

How can I keep my hair color vibrant?

Keeping your freshly dyed hair looking vibrant for as long as possible is important to maintain a healthy, stylish look. There are several things you can do to ensure that your color stays vibrant and true-to-tone.

Use Quality Hair Care Products

It is important to use only quality hair care products when washing and styling the tresses. Mild shampoos and deep conditioning treatments will help to keep the color locked in while avoiding products that contain alcohol, as these can dry out the hair and cause fading.

Avoid Washing Hair Too Much

It is also important to avoid washing your hair too often, as this can strip away the color. If you have oily hair, opt for a dry shampoo to keep it clean and fresh between washes.

Wait Two Days Before Washing

Be sure to wait at least two days after coloring your hair before washing it for the first time. This will help lock in the color and prevent any fading or discoloration. When it is time to shampoo, use an only mild shampoo and lukewarm water to avoid damaging your freshly dyed locks.

Do hot showers make your hair color less vibrant?

Yes, hot showers can make your hair color less vibrant. Taking a hot shower with water that is too hot can cause the color to fade and discolor as the heat will open up the hair cuticles, allowing the dye to be washed away.

How often should you wash your colored hair?

When it comes to washing colored hair, it is important not to over-wash your tresses. Too much shampooing can strip away the color, leaving you with dull, lifeless locks. Ideally, you should only be washing your colored hair once or twice a week.

Best Shampoos for Washing Color-Treated Hair

Ashford & Parker Hair Studio offers several hair care products that are perfect for color-treated hair. Some of the best shampoos that you can purchase from them are:

• Volu Shampoo
• Melu Shampoo
• Solu Shampoo
• Love Smoothing Shampoo
• Love Curl Shampoo
• Momo Shampoo
• Minu Shampoo
• STMNT Shampoo
• OI Shampoo

It is Best To Dye Your Hair at the Salon

Going to Ashford & Parker Hair Studio to get your hair colored is still the best way to dye your hair. This ensures that your hair is colored evenly and rinsed using the ideal method. It is also important to follow the dos and don’ts of washing your hair after coloring in order to maintain the vibrancy of your locks.

By using a mild shampoo, deep conditioning treatment, and avoiding hot water, you can keep your hair color looking vibrant for longer. Additionally, be sure to wait at least two days after coloring your hair before washing it for the first time to allow the color to set properly.

Schedule an appointment at Ashford & Parker Hair Studio, here.

Last updated on January 16, 2023