This means making sure the hair is well moisturized, relatively detangled and all split ends have been trimmed off. When applying the hair dye, follow the manufacturer’s directions accurately. If applying a permanent hair dye, ensure that the dye does not sit on your hair longer than recommended. Shampoo and rinse well followed by a good deep conditioner*.
After your hair has been thoroughly conditioned, re-moisturize the strands and seal in the moisture with an oil, butter or gel. During this time, pay attention to the hair and how it is reacting to the products. Do your strands look any different than they did pre-coloring? Do the products have the same effect on your hair? Afterward, place the hair in your most moisture retaining style. This varies depending on the hair type and porosity level. For me, it’s small twists but for others, it may be a wash and go, braid out or updo. This makes sure that all that moisture and good stuff stays in your hair as it acclimates to its new condition.
Maintaining the Hair
You may notice that your colored hair may dry out quicker than normal or the texture is a bit looser. This is because the hair dye has altered the porosity and texture of your hair.
Although the texture of your hair will remain permanently altered, you may improve the porosity of your hair by applying a protein treatment (Aphogee* sales an affordable one at local beauty stores) and/or a porosity balancing shampoo and conditioner.
This will adjust the way your hair holds in moisture and may prevent it from drying out so quickly. The second thing to do is to MOISTURIZE. I can’t stress this enough. Failing to properly moisturize color treated hair can lead to unwanted breakage and hair loss. This means using a moisturizing shampoo (one that is paraben and sulfate free) that will not dry out your hair, deep conditioning* every week and applying a moisturizer and sealant.
Monitor Your Hair
Furthermore, it is important to keep an eye on the condition of your hair over the next several weeks post the coloring treatment. Is your hair retaining moisture well?
Pay close attention to how much hair loss or breakage is occurring. Is your hair breaking off more than normal? Is this your usual amount of hair loss? If your hair seems to be getting worse instead of better, it may be time to see a beautician or hair specialist about additional hair treatments.