7 Ways to Maintain Your Burgundy Hair Color

Burgundy hair color is a statement look that can command attention in any room. All the same, it’s not quite fire engine red, which makes it relatively more wearable and slightly easier to maintain (emphasis on “slightly!").

Without the right care and commitment, this deep, wine-red shade can fade quickly and lose its edge. If you're wondering how to maintain burgundy hair so it stays fresh and fierce, these tips will help you keep your color rich and radiant.

One of the easiest ways to protect your burgundy hair color is by using products designed for color-treated hair. Regular shampoos can contain sulfates, which are harsh cleansers that strip away both your natural oils and your new color. Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners labeled “color safe” or “for color-treated hair.”

You can also go for formulas made specifically for red or burgundy tones to keep that just-dyed vibrance, such as Cream Silk Triple Keratin Ultimate Color Revive Serum Conditioner. It’s a sulfate-free formula that revives chemically-treated strands.

Pro tip: Avoid clarifying shampoos unless absolutely necessary. They’re designed to remove buildup, so they can also remove dye molecules from your strands.

Ideally, you’d wash your hair less often to help preserve its color, but in our humid climate, that’s not always realistic. Instead, use cool or lukewarm water when you shampoo. Hot water can lift the hair cuticle, causing color to fade faster.

Pro tip: On days when you’re not heading out and can manage an off day, try using a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and keep your style looking fresh.

Daily blow-drying, flat ironing, or curling can dull your burgundy hair color and weaken the hair shaft. Heat causes the hair’s cuticle to lift, making it easier for pigment to escape. If heat styling is non-negotiable, always use a heat protectant spray or serum that creates a barrier between your hair and the hot tool. This small step can make a huge difference in preserving both your hair's health and color.

Pro tip: Let your hair air-dry when possible, and try heatless styling methods like braiding or using flexi-rods for curls.

Just like your skin, your hair can suffer from sun damage. UV rays break down the dye molecules, leading to dull, uneven color. Before heading out, pop on a wide-brimmed hat or apply a leave-in product with UV protection. This is especially key if you're on vacation or spending long days outside.

Pro tip: Spritz on a UV-protectant leave-in conditioner before a beach day or outdoor event to help lock in moisture and block harmful rays. Add a stylish bandana for extra protection.

Dyed hair tends to be drier and more porous, especially if it was bleached before coloring. Deep conditioning once a week helps hydrate and repair the strands, which in turn keeps your color looking shiny and saturated. Focus on the mid-lengths to ends, where damage usually shows first.

Pro tip: Look for masks that contain ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or shea butter to strengthen and nourish hair without weighing it down.

Even the most vibrant burgundy will eventually fade, especially with regular washing and sun exposure. Some signs that you're due for a touch-up include hair regrowth and brassiness. To keep the tone fresh, schedule salon touch-ups every few weeks or use a color-depositing conditioner or gloss at home. These products infuse pigment into your hair and revive your shade in just a few minutes.

Pro tip: Do a strand test before using any at-home color-enhancing products to ensure the result matches your current tone.

Swimming pools might feel like a dream on hot days, but chlorine is a major threat to your color. It strips the hair of moisture and can cause burgundy shades to turn brassy. If you’re a regular swimmer, wear a cap or rinse your hair thoroughly before and after taking a dip. Steer clear of chemical-heavy treatments like perms or straighteners that can also interfere with your color.

Pro tip: Use a radiance-booster that’s specifically for red-dyed hair, like TRESemmé Pro-Color Series Color Radiance Shampoo. This formula deposits pigments into your hair cuticles to balance out tones and refresh your locks overall.

Knowing how to maintain burgundy hair is the secret to keeping this bold, moody hue looking fresh and fabulous. With the right hair color maintenance routine, you can extend the life of your shade and keep it as radiant as ever.