How to Protect Your Hair Color at Home: Expert Tips from Olive + Oak Hair Salon

You’ve just invested in gorgeous new hair color—now it’s time to make it last! At Olive + Oak Hair Salon, we want you to enjoy your color long after you leave our chairs. With the right care, you can keep your color vibrant, shiny, and healthy between appointments. Here are our top tips on how to protect your hair color at home.

1. Use Salon-Quality, Color-Safe Shampoo & Conditioner

Not all hair products are created equal. Drugstore shampoos often contain harsh sulfates that strip away color and moisture. Instead, use a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner recommended by your stylist. This simple switch can make a huge difference in how long your color lasts.

2. Wash Less Frequently

Water is one of the biggest culprits in fading hair color. Try to wash your hair only 2–3 times per week. On non-wash days, use a dry shampoo to refresh your roots and keep your style looking fresh.

3. Rinse with Cool Water

Hot showers feel amazing, but they also open the hair cuticle, allowing color to wash out faster. When rinsing your hair, switch to lukewarm or cool water to help lock in your color and add extra shine.

4. Protect Hair from Heat Styling

Blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands can damage color-treated hair if not used properly. Always apply a heat protectant spray before styling, and keep the temperature as low as possible.

5. Shield Your Hair from the Sun

UV rays don’t just damage skin—they also fade hair color. If you’re spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a UV-protectant spray designed for color-treated hair.

6. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater Damage

Chlorine and saltwater can strip color and leave hair feeling dry. If you’re swimming, rinse your hair with clean water first and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a protective barrier. After swimming, shampoo and condition your hair as soon as possible.

7. Schedule Regular Gloss or Toner Appointments

Even with the best care at home, color can lose its vibrancy over time. A quick in-salon gloss or toner service between color appointments can refresh your tone, add shine, and keep your hair looking freshly colored.

Ready for your next refresh? Book your appointment here!