After your color
The weeks after are part of the plan
Vivid shades soften with every wash, and how you look after them sets how long they stay bright. This is what we ask of everyone who leaves with color, and your colorist adjusts it for your shade.
If something doesn't look right, text us a photo and we'll talk it through.
Cool water and fewer washes
A color-safe shampoo and conditioner
A refresh booked before you go
Week by week
Your first six weeks
- 01Days 1–2
Step 1: The first 48 hours
Wait before you wash. Sleep on a dark pillowcase and keep hair off light clothes, because fresh color can rub off.
- 02Week 1
Step 2: The first week
Wash with cool water, once or twice, with a color-safe shampoo. Rinse well and skip hot showers on your hair.
- 03Weeks 2–4
Step 3: Weeks two to four
Use a color-depositing conditioner in your shade between washes, and book your gloss or refresh.
- 04Weeks 4–6
Step 4: Weeks four to six
This is when most shades have softened and roots show. Come in for a refresh, or text us a photo to plan one.
Between visits
Habits that keep it bright
Cool water
Warm water opens the hair and lets color out. Finish with a cool rinse.
Fewer washes
Every wash fades color. Stretch washes with a dry shampoo when you can.
Shade-matched conditioner
A conditioner that deposits your shade tops it up between visits.
Sun and heat
Sun fades vivid shades fast. Wear a hat, and use a heat protectant on any hot tool.
Pools and the lake
Wet your hair with tap water first and rinse right after, so chlorine and salt have less to take.
Towels and sheets
Fresh color can transfer. Use dark towels and a dark pillowcase for the first weeks.
Questions about aftercare
Why is my color fading so fast?
Vivid shades are the first to soften, and reds and pinks go fastest. Cool washes, fewer washes and a shade-matched conditioner slow it, and a refresh brings it back.
Can I swim?
Yes. Wet your hair with tap water first, rinse right after, and expect a little more fading.
When should I book my refresh?
Before you leave. Most clients come back between three and six weeks, depending on the shade, and your plan has the date.
Book your refresh
Color softens on a schedule. A refresh puts it back.