Color-treated hair requires extra care and attention to achieve the best results over time. Hair dye that fades within a week or two can be frustrating and a waste of money. The following tips from the experts at Parker Trichology Centre in Carrollton, TX will keep your colored hair looking fabulous.

Wait to Shampoo
In order to preserve and protect color, wait 3 days to shampoo your hair after the dye is applied. Hair dye opens the cuticle layer, allowing the dye to penetrate the shaft. The longer the cuticle layer remains open, the longer the color pigment has to soak in. Using shampoo immediately after the dye is applied washes the color away before it has time to set.

Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Sodium laureth sulfate is a form of detergent that is added to various beauty products in order to produce foam. These chemicals can remove important natural moisture and oil from your hair. It can also cause hair color to fade. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent your hair dye from fading.

Lower the Water Temperature to Shampoo
Hot water can open your hair cuticle and affect your color. You can prevent the dye from washing away by shampooing with warm water and rinsing with cool water.

Shampoo Less Often
Washing your hair every day can accelerate the speed at which your color fades. Avoid shampooing every day if possible. Wash your hair every other day or so, and, if necessary, apply dry shampoo in-between your wet shampooing.

Protect Your Hair
Hair dye can dry out your hair. You need extra hydration to prevent damage to your hair. Apply a leave-in treatment to keep your hair hydrated. Use a heat protect spray to reduce damage caused by blow-drying and styling your hair

Prepare Your Hair
Before you get your hair colored, apply a clarifying shampoo to remove any oils that may prevent the color from penetrating the cuticle.

Avoid Chlorine
Chlorine is a bleaching chemical that is used to keep pools clean. It can remove the color from your hair. It can also cause blonde hair to take on a greenish hue. If you are exposed to chlorinated water on a regular basis, wear a swimming cap. Another option is to apply a leave-in conditioner treatment before you get in the water.

Get Regular Trims
Split ends do not retain hair dye. Be sure to have your hair trimmed regularly to keep your hair looking great.

With these simple steps, you can get weeks of extra vibrant color each time you dye your hair. For more expert advice and professional hair color treatments in Carrollton, TX, visit the Parker Trichology Centre at 214-307-6200 today!