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How to Care for Colored Hair: Easy Tips from Yaletown Stylists

How to Care for Colored Hair: Easy Tips from Yaletown Stylists

Just colored your hair? Whether it’s a bold red, a soft blonde, or a custom shade in between, freshly dyed hair deserves a little extra attention. Color treatments can leave hair more vulnerable to dryness, fading, and damage, but with the right care routine, vibrant results can last longer and look healthier.

This guide covers everything to do (and not to do) after a color service, recommended salon treatments, and expert product picks to maintain shine, tone, and strength.

Why Colored Hair Needs Special Care

Coloring changes the structure of hair. During the process, hair becomes more porous, which makes it prone to moisture loss and faster color fading. That’s why proper maintenance is essential. With a thoughtful routine, color can stay rich and luminous, without sacrificing hair health.

What to Do After Coloring Hair

Use Gentle, Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner

Many standard shampoos contain harsh sulfates that strip color. Look for sulfate-free, color-protectant formulas. These are specifically designed to preserve vibrancy while keeping hair soft and manageable.

Wash Less Frequently

Washing too often can cause premature fading. Aim to shampoo only 2–3 times per week. On in-between days, a dry shampoo can refresh roots, absorb excess oil, and add lift.

Rinse with Cool or Lukewarm Water

Hot water opens up the hair cuticle, allowing color molecules to escape more easily. Instead, opt for cooler water when rinsing to help seal the cuticle and lock in color.

Deep Condition Weekly

Color treatments can dehydrate strands. Use a nourishing deep conditioner or mask once a week to replenish moisture and maintain softness. Look for ingredients like keratin, shea butter, or argan oil.

Protect Hair From Heat Styling

Heated tools such as flat irons and curling wands can cause color-treated hair to become brittle. Always use a heat-protectant spray before styling. Alternatively, explore no-heat styles like braids, buns, or twists.

Refresh Color with Gloss or Toner

To revive shine and tone between appointments, book a salon gloss or toner treatment every 4–6 weeks. These treatments enhance color depth and add luminosity, especially helpful for neutralizing brassiness in blonde tones.

What Not to Do After Coloring

Avoid Washing your Hair Immediately After Coloring

Hold off on the first wash for at least 48 hours. This waiting period allows the color to set fully and improves longevity.

Skip Drugstore-Grade Hair Products

Lower-quality shampoos and conditioners often contain sulfates, parabens, and alcohols that can strip color and dry out hair. Professional-grade, color-safe products are formulated to support hair health and extend vibrancy.

Limit Use of Clarifying Shampoo

While clarifying shampoos remove buildup, they can also fade color. Use them sparingly—once every few weeks at most—and follow up with a hydrating treatment to restore moisture.

Protect Hair From Sun and Chlorine

UV rays and chlorinated pools can cause color to fade and hair to dry out. When outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat or apply a UV-protectant spray. For swimming, rinse hair before and after with clean water or use a swim cap.

Recommended Salon Treatments for Colored Hair

Gloss Treatment


A gloss adds mirror-like shine and revives color between appointments. It works well for all shades and takes only 20–30 minutes at a salon.

Botanical Repair Treatment

Ideal for chemically treated or bleached hair, this salon-grade treatment uses plant-based ingredients to rebuild the hair’s internal structure, smooth the surface, and boost resilience.

Professional Haircare Products to Use

To protect your investment in color, use high-quality, stylist-recommended products tailored to colored hair. These may include:

  • Color-safe shampoo and conditioner for gentle cleansing

  • Heat protectant spray for daily styling

  • Leave-in conditioner or serum to repair and smooth

  • Lightweight oils for added shine and frizz control

Ask a stylist for personalized product recommendations based on hair type and color history.

Common Questions About Color Maintenance

How often should touch-ups be scheduled?

  • Root touch-ups: Every 4–6 weeks
  • Highlights or balayage: Every 8–12 weeks
  • Gloss or toner treatments: Every 4–6 weeks

Is it safe to correct color mistakes immediately? 

It’s best to wait at least 2 weeks before attempting a color correction. This gives the hair time to recover and helps avoid further damage. A professional consultation is highly recommended before proceeding.

Can hair oil be used on colored hair?

Yes, as long as the oil is lightweight and color-safe. Argan or rosehip oils can help tame frizz, add gloss, and nourish ends, without stripping the color.

Final Thoughts

Caring for color-treated hair doesn’t have to be complicated. With mindful habits, the right products, and occasional salon treatments, hair can stay vibrant, strong, and beautiful between coloring sessions. 

Whether the goal is to preserve fiery reds, icy blondes, or rich brunettes, following these steps ensures lasting results and healthier strands.

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