10 Ways To Keep Long-Lasting Highlighted Hair
Whether you've recently left the salon with a head full of fresh highlights or you're a seasoned veteran of the lightened look, maintaining the brilliance of highlighted hair requires a tailored approach to your hair care routine. Highlighted hair is a canvas of color, showcasing your individual style and personality. To ensure that your vibrant hues stay true and your locks remain healthy, it's essential to adopt a specialized care regimen.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps and tips on how to maintain highlighted hair – from choosing the right products to implementing smart lifestyle choices. Get ready to unlock the ways to long-lasting, luminous highlights that turn heads wherever you go.
Invest in a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo formulated for highlighted or color-treated hair. Sulfates can strip away the color and natural oils, so opting for a gentler cleanser helps preserve your highlights and maintain overall hair health.
Conditioning is crucial for highlighted hair, as the coloring process can leave strands more porous. Use a nourishing conditioner to keep your hair hydrated, smooth, and less prone to frizz. Consider implementing a weekly deep conditioning treatment to provide extra moisture and maintain the health of your hair.
Frequent washing can contribute to color fade. Try to extend the time between washes, and on non-wash days, use a dry shampoo to refresh your hair and absorb excess oil without compromising your highlights.
Sun exposure can lead to color fading, especially for highlighted hair. Shield your locks by using a UV-protective spray or wearing a hat when spending extended periods in the sun. This extra layer of protection helps maintain the vibrancy of your highlights.
When washing your hair, use cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can open the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to escape. Rinsing with cooler water helps seal the cuticle, keeping the color intact.
Excessive use of heat styling tools can contribute to damage and color fade. If you need to use these tools, apply a heat protectant spray before styling to minimize the impact on your highlighted hair. Consider air-drying or using heat-free styling methods whenever possible.
Keep your highlighted hair looking fresh by scheduling regular trims every 6-8 weeks. Trimming helps prevent split ends and breakage, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your hair.
A leave-in conditioner can provide continuous hydration and protection for your highlighted hair throughout the day. Choose a lightweight formula to avoid weighing down your hair.
Chlorine in swimming pools can be harsh on highlighted hair and may cause discoloration. Before swimming, wet your hair with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a protective barrier. Consider wearing a swim cap to minimize exposure.
Regularly visit your hairstylist for touch-ups and consultations. They can assess the condition of your highlighted hair, recommend specific products, and provide professional treatments to maintain the integrity of the color.
By implementing these tips into your hair care routine, you can keep your highlighted hair looking vibrant, healthy, and salon-fresh for an extended period.
