In the world of hairstyling, vivid or fantasy hair colors have surged in popularity, allowing individuals to express their creativity and individuality through their hair. From pastel pinks to electric blues, the possibilities are endless. However, maintaining the vibrancy and health of fantasy color hair requires special care and attention. In this guide, we'll explore the essential tips and tricks for keeping your vivid locks looking vibrant and beautiful for longer.
Understanding Fantasy Hair Colours
Fantasy colour refers to hair that has been dyed with unconventional shades that do not occur naturally, like blues, pinks, fiery reds, etc. These colors typically involve bleaching the hair to a lighter shade before applying the vivid dye to achieve the desired colour. Due to the bleaching process and the nature of fantasy color dyes, this type of hair requires specific care to maintain its color intensity and health.
Choose Quality Products
When caring for fantasy colour hair, it's crucial to invest in high-quality hair care products specifically formulated for coloured or chemically treated hair. Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are gentle on the hair and won't strip away the color. Additionally, opt for color-safe hair masks and leave-in treatments to nourish and moisturize your locks.
Minimize Washing
Frequent washing can cause fantasy colour hair to fade prematurely. Aim to wash your hair no more than two to three times a week, using lukewarm or cool water. Consider incorporating dry shampoo into your routine to refresh your hair between washes without stripping away the color.
Colour-Depositing Conditioners and Masks
Colour-safe shampoo and conditioner is great, but for additional longevity, consider a colour-depositing mask or conditioner. These products have pigment in them, so rather than just preserving the colour, they actually refresh it. You can create your own by mixing a semi-permanent colour (such as Manic Panic or Arctic Fox) into your conditioner. Note that this only works if you have a solid colour; if you have a fancy style with multiple fantasy colours, this is not recommended and may create undesired tones.
Cold Rinse
After shampooing and conditioning, rinse your hair with cold water. Cold water helps seal the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and preventing color fading. While it may be less comfortable than a hot shower, the benefits for your fantasy color hair are worth it.
Use Heat Protectant
Did you know you can burn the colour out of your hair? When styling your hair with heat tools such as flat irons or curling wands, always use a heat protectant spray or serum to shield your hair from damage. Heat damage can cause bleached hair to break and color to fade, so heat protection is 100% essential for maintaining color vibrancy and overall hair health.
UV Protection
Just like your skin, your hair is susceptible to damage from UV rays. Exposure to sunlight can cause fantasy color hair to fade and become dull over time. Protect your locks by wearing hats or using UV-protectant hair products when spending extended periods outdoors.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Treat your hair to regular deep conditioning treatments to keep it soft, hydrated, and vibrant. Look for conditioning masks specifically designed for color-treated hair.
Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine from swimming pools and saltwater from the ocean can both have damaging effects on fantasy color hair. Before taking a dip, wet your hair with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to create a protective barrier. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any chlorine or salt residue.
Conclusion
Caring for fantasy color hair requires a combination of gentle products, proper maintenance techniques, and protective measures to keep your locks looking vibrant and healthy. By following these tips and incorporating them into your hair care routine, you can enjoy your vivid hair color for longer periods without sacrificing its integrity. Embrace your bold and beautiful hair, and let your creativity shine!