Tips and Inspiration
From Unilever Beauty Experts
Today is the day you’re finally having your hair colored for the first time (after much deliberation!). You’ve been waiting for this. But just as you’re getting ready, you’re plagued with a barrage of questions: Should you shampoo or not? Will co-washing do? Can you dye freshly washed hair, or will this make the color treatment less effective?
It’s time to put the debate in your mind to rest. Keep reading for some quick pre- and post-hair coloring tips – straight from the expert – to help get you started.
Can You Dye Freshly Washed Hair?
The general answer is yes, but it’s not advisable to wash your hair right before your appointment. “We advise that you don’t shampoo on the same day you’re planning to have your hair colored,” begins Rose Bueno, part-owner of Artistique Salon and a hairstylist and colorist for more than a decade. “That’s because the oil in the scalp helps protect your hair and scalp against the chemicals used in the treatment so you won’t feel any sting. Hindi mahapdi.”
Experts generally advise against shampooing right before coloring also because color treatment works better on dry hair. “If you really prefer to wash your hair, make sure it’s dried thoroughly before your color session,” says Rose.
Salons usually use permanent color dyes for a complete color change. This type of hair dye penetrates the hair cortex, which is the middle layer of the hair structure that provides its color and texture. Wet hair makes it harder for the dyes to get into the hair cortex. “The color dye can turn out to be less effective when applied on wet hair. You might not be able to achieve your target hair color,” she points out.
Should You Come to the Salon With Dirty Hair?
No, it’s not true that color treatments work better on dirty hair. Colorists will shampoo your hair if they find a lot of dirt, buildup, or product residue.
Other color application methods would also require you to come into the salon with clean hair. “Some colorants work better on clean hair, such as henna, cellophane, or semi-permanent color,” Rose explains. “These color dyes don’t penetrate your hair cortex but coat them in color – and they won’t stick to your hair strands if they’re dirty.”
What are Good Pre- and Post-Color Care Practices?
In sum, before a hair coloring session, it’s best to have clean hair – but not hair that’s just washed before your appointment. As mentioned, clean but not freshly washed hair allows your hair and scalp’s natural sebum to serve as a protective barrier from harsh chemicals or bleach. Plus, hair that’s free from dirt and buildup gives you a more even color.
After you color your hair, do you shampoo immediately? Most salons would rinse off the color treatment without shampooing to show you your newly colored hair in its full effect. Shampooing will slowly fade your hair color, which is why other hair cleansing methods like co-washing or using a dry shampoo are also recommended. Still, you’d want to make sure your hair and scalp are clean to avoid developing dandruff or irritation.
Especially after a color treatment, the key is to make sure your hair is moisturized and nourished. “Using the right shampoo and conditioner, plus a weekly hair mask, are good practices,” says Rose. She advises reading the label and choosing products that are specifically formulated for color-treated hair.
What Products Should You Use?
“Even if you think your hair type is not dry per se, after a color treatment, your hair can still benefit from using products formulated for dry hair or those that give intensive moisture,” says Rose. “These products can help nourish your hair and bring back its shine, especially after heavy coloring or bleaching.”
You can also use a toning shampoo and conditioner, especially if your new hair color is blonde or red. These products prevent your hair color from fading or turning brassy. “It’s one way to keep your hair color vibrant over time,” adds Rose. “Some of these shampoos don’t even require everyday use. Once a week can be enough to refresh your hair color.”
Avoid dry and brittle hair with Cream Silk Triple Keratin Ultimate Color Revive Serum Conditioner. It's formulated to nurture colored hair by helping tame frizz, revive damaged hair, and restore shine and luster.
Another option is TRESemmé Pro-Color Series Blonde Brilliance Conditioner, which is specially formulated with a purple conditioner formula and jojoba oil to keep your hair smooth and brilliant. It features Micro-Conditioning Technology with violet pigments that neutralize brassy hues and help preserve blonde shades longer, making it suitable for daily use.
Lastly, you can opt for non-sulfate shampoos and conditioners to lessen the fading of your colored hair. “If you feel that your scalp needs a thorough cleanse, use a deep cleansing shampoo every two weeks,” Rose advises. You can also try a head spa at the salon to refresh and rejuvenate your scalp.
Color With Care
So, can you dye freshly washed hair? Is it okay to shampoo color-treated hair? At the end of the day, this guide offers general recommendations, but it’s best to speak with your colorist or salon to get ready advice. They’ll be able to clue you in on what color treatment they’ll be doing to dye your hair, plus throw in their advice on pre- and post-color care. It’s the best way to achieve a new, vibrant color and nourished, moisturized hair!
