Changing your hair color can be a vibrant way to express your individuality. However, one aspect of hair coloring that many people may not consider is the eventual fading of the color. Whether you opt for vibrant reds, soft pastels, or natural shades, hair color fading is inevitable.
And if you choose to change your hair color, there is a healthier way to do it – using a hair color fader. This haircare product is filled with healthier ingredients to accelerate hair color fading.
Understanding the science behind it and learning how to fade your hair color healthily can help you preserve intense hair color or transition into more vibrant locks.
Why Does Hair Color Fade?
Hair color fading occurs due to various factors, both internal and external.
Hair porosity
This refers to how your hair absorbs and holds onto moisture and color molecules. High porosity hair absorbs color more readily but can also lose it quickly. For example, if you have naturally curly hair, it tends to be more porous and may require more frequent color touch-ups.
Shampoo and water
Frequent washing and exposure to water can strip hair color molecules from the hair shaft. Overuse of hot water and harsh shampoos fade hair dye faster. Consider switching to sulfate-free shampoos and limiting washes to every 2-3 days to retain your color’s vibrancy.
UV radiation
Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays that can break down the semi-permanent hair color molecules in your hair. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to fading, especially in lighter shades. To combat this, wear a wide-brimmed hat or use UV-protectant sprays when spending time outdoors.
Chemical treatments
Chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, and repeated dyeing can weaken the hair cuticle, making it more prone to color loss. If you must undergo chemical treatments, ensure your hair is in optimal condition before coloring to minimize damage.
Swimming pool chlorine
Chlorine in swimming pools can oxidize and strip color from your hair, particularly if it’s porous or chemically treated. To protect your color, wet your hair thoroughly and apply a leave-in conditioner before swimming. Post-swim, rinse your hair immediately, and use a color-protecting conditioner.
Product choice
The type of hair dye and brand you use can impact fading. Permanent hair dyes often last longer than semi-permanent or temporary ones. For example, if you’re considering vibrant fashion colors like blue or pink, semi-permanent dyes may require more frequent touch-ups due to their shorter lifespan.
Tips for Healthy Hair Color Fading
Start with a fade-friendly shade
If you’re worried about fading, consider choosing a hair color shade that complements your natural color or is close to it. This way, the fading process will be less noticeable. For instance, if you have dark brown hair, opting for a warm chestnut shade can help maintain a subtle transition as it fades.
Use color-protecting products
Invest in shampoos and conditioners designed for color-treated hair. These products will minimize color loss and maintain vibrancy. Look for products with ingredients like antioxidants and UV filters.
Wash with cool water
Hot water opens up your hair cuticle, which then allows color molecules to escape more easily. Washing with cool water can help seal the cuticle and slow down fading. Consider rinsing with cold water during your final rinse to lock in color.
Reduce washing frequency
Washing your hair less frequently can extend the life of your color. Consider using dry shampoo between washes to keep your hair looking fresh. For example, if you wash your hair daily, switch to every other day or even less frequently if your hair allows it.
Wear UV protection
When spending time in the sun, shield your hair from UV radiation with a hat or products with UV filters. This is especially important if you have light or pastel shades, which are more susceptible to sun-induced fading.
Limit heat styling
Excessive heat from styling tools can accelerate color fading. Use heat protectants and reduce the frequency of hot styling tools. If you must style your hair, use lower heat settings and give your hair breaks between styling sessions.
Hair Color Fader: A New Solution
To aid in the healthy fading of hair color, a relatively new product called a “hair color fader” has gained popularity. Hair color faders are specially formulated to gently remove unwanted colors or lighten existing colors.
When using a hair color fader, follow the product’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging your hair. It’s essential to condition your hair thoroughly after using a hair color remover to maintain its health and hydration.
For example, if you’ve experimented with bold red hair and now want to transition to a more natural shade, a color fader can help you achieve this gradual transformation without causing excessive damage to your dyed hair.
Conclusion
Hair color fading is a natural part of the hair coloring process, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can enjoy a graceful and healthy fade. Understanding the causes of fading, choosing fade-friendly colors, and using color-protecting products are all steps you can take to prolong the life of your hair color.
Additionally, the introduction of hair color faders provides a safe and effective way to transition between colors or make hair significantly lighter. Embrace your ever-changing hair journey while maintaining the health and vibrancy of your locks.