How To Prevent Hair Colour Damage

stop hair colour damage

Colouring your hair can add lustre and emphasise texture, cover grey hairs, and maximise new haircuts. But does dying your hair damage it? Read on to find out how to prevent damage when colouring your hair…

Hair Colour Facts

For hair dye to effectively colour your hair ammonia is initially used to lift the hair cuticle and then peroxide destroys the current colour. The longer the cuticle is lifted the dryer the hair becomes as the peroxide strips the hair of nutrients and can leave hair feeling brittle and prone to breakage.

Overexposure to these chemicals can result in dry and damaged hair, as can mixing hair dye with other chemicals such as hair relaxers. And you should be aware that the chemicals in tap water can react to certain compounds present in hair dyes resulting in unexpected shades of green or orange!

Hair thinning and hair loss are less common reactions to hair dye if the chemicals come into contact with the scalp and cause a reaction. Permanent hair dyes can actually cause hair fall and if exposed to the sun can result in dermatitis and increase the chance of pigmentation.

Hair Colour Know-How

Colour-damaged hair can be avoided if you choose a product that lets you add colour without harmful bleaches and chemicals. Chalks, crayons, and powders can add hints of colour and streaks. Henna, lemon juice, and coffee are all alternative ways to naturally colour your hair, but these are all temporary dyes.

Semi-permanent dyes wash out after around 20 -26 shampoos and permanent dyes are permanent and will need to grow out. Pick a colour that you really like sticking to no more than two shades darker or lighter than your own natural hair colour.

Use a colour cape to protect your clothes and cover any surrounding surfaces. Brush your hair and put on the gloves provided. Follow the directions to combine the dye ingredients, and then comb your hair into different sections and use plastic clips for separation. Apply the dye in sections working the dye in, well. Set the timer and follow the instructions exactly. Rinse your hair until the water runs clear then wait an hour before shampooing and conditioning. Allow your hair to dry naturally.

Improve Your Hair Colour

  • Don’t wash your hair before treatment as this reduces natural oils
  • Avoid heat styling your hair for a couple of days before and after dying
  • Add a protein treatment to increase nutrients back into the hair while the cuticle is open
  • Use a shampoo and conditioner designed specifically for coloured hair
  • Apply coconut oil to the hair ends to prolong the colour and protect the ends if you swim often

Find The Best Hair Colourist In London

Hair replacement systems in the UK aren’t the only treatments that Cochrane & Co salon specialises in. Experienced stylists from the London colouring clinic will use a range of colours enriched with amino acids to match the colour of your hair system to your natural hair. From highlight and low lights to root rehab and grey coverage, you won’t need to look any further for a personalised service that fulfils your expectations, and more.