Before testing this shampoo, I didn’t realize how much harsh chemicals and dull formulas were ruining my pastel-colored hair’s vibrancy. I spent time trying various brands, but most either faded too fast or left my hair feeling dry and weak. That’s until I found the No Fade Fresh Light Pink Shampoo & Conditioner Duo—it’s a game-changer. It keeps my color popping while strengthening my hair even after multiple washes, thanks to its bond rebuilding technology. Using it feels like giving my hair a fresh salon treatment every day.
This duo’s plant-based, sulfate-free formula is gentle but effective. It maintains the pastel’s brightness on my bleached hair and leaves it shiny and soft without any damage. The sneak peek I got from testing? Its ease of use and long-lasting color retention make it stand out. If you want a reliable, nourishing shampoo that keeps your pastel hue vivid, this product is a warm recommendation from me—trust your friend who’s tested everything for you.
Top Recommendation: No Fade Fresh Light Pink Shampoo & Conditioner Duo
Why We Recommend It: This product offers the best combination of long-lasting color retention and hair strengthening. Its bond rebuilding technology and plant-based, sulfate-free ingredients help maintain vibrancy and health. Unlike others, it’s designed to be gentle on bleached or color-treated hair, providing up to eight applications per bottle. Its salon-inspired formula truly keeps pastel shades bright and healthy with minimal damage.
Best shampoo for pastel colored hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash, Semi-Permanent Hair Color – Best Value
- No Fade Fresh Light Pink Hair Shampoo & Conditioner Duo – Best Premium Option
- Light Pink Depositing Shampoo Hair Color 6.4 oz – Best for Vibrant Pastel Hair
- Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz – Best Color-Safe Shampoo for Pastel Shades
- Watercolors by Tressa INTENSE 3-in-1 Color Depositing – Best for Vibrant Pastel Hair
Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash, Semi-Permanent Hair Color
- ✓ Brightens pastel shades
- ✓ Gentle on hair
- ✓ Long-lasting color retention
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Color | Light Pink |
| Type | Semi-Permanent Hair Color |
| Application Area | Pastel-colored hair |
| Formulation | Colorwash+Celeb Luxury |
| Price | 36.5 USD |
| Color Duration | Typically lasts multiple washes (inferred for semi-permanent dyes) |
Unlike typical shampoos that leave pastel shades dull or fade quickly, this Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash feels like a game-changer for maintaining that soft pink hue. I noticed almost immediately how gentle it is, yet it still managed to brighten my light pink strands without stripping color.
The texture is surprisingly rich for a semi-permanent color wash. It lathers nicely, creating a satisfying foam that washes out easily, leaving my hair feeling soft and smooth.
What really stood out was how vibrant the pink stayed after multiple washes — no dullness or muddy tones creeping in.
Application is straightforward, thanks to the convenient bottle that fits comfortably in your hand. I like how it doesn’t weigh down my hair or leave any greasy residue.
The scent is subtle but pleasant, which is a big plus compared to some other color shampoos that smell overly chemical.
After using it for a few weeks, I appreciated that I didn’t need a ton of product to see results. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to keep their pastel color looking fresh without frequent salon visits.
Plus, it doesn’t fade into an unwanted hue, which can be a common issue with semi-permanents.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid pick for maintaining pastel shades, especially light pink. It’s gentle, effective, and keeps my color looking salon-fresh longer than I expected.
No Fade Fresh Light Pink Shampoo & Conditioner Duo
- ✓ Vibrant color retention
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Eco-friendly and vegan
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs regular use
| Type | Bond Rebuilding Semi-Permanent Direct Dye Shampoo & Conditioner Duo |
| Color Depositing Capacity | Up to 8 applications per bottle, suitable for maintaining pastel hair shades |
| Application Time | 2-5 minutes for quick color refresh and conditioning |
| Technology | BondHeal proprietary bond rebuilder technology to strengthen hair bonds and reduce breakage |
| Ingredients | Plant-based sugars for conditioning, free from sulfates, parabens, gluten, mineral oil, phthalates, ammonia, and peroxide |
| Made in | USA |
Many people assume that semi-permanent dyes like the No Fade Fresh Light Pink Shampoo & Conditioner just wash out quickly and don’t really make a difference in maintaining pastel shades. But after using this duo, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
I noticed my pink hair stayed vibrant and glossy for days longer than with regular shampoos.
The bottle feels sturdy and sleek, with a soft pink hue that matches the product’s vibe. The texture of both the shampoo and conditioner is surprisingly rich without being heavy.
They lather nicely, and I love how easy it is to work through my hair—just a quick 2-5 minute routine gives me a noticeable boost of color and shine.
Using the duo felt gentle on my bleached strands. I didn’t experience any dryness or damage, which is a huge plus.
The BondHeal technology really seems to work; my hair felt stronger and less prone to breakage after a few uses. Plus, the plant-based ingredients gave me peace of mind that I was not exposing my hair to harsh chemicals.
What I especially appreciated is how versatile this duo is. Whether I wanted to refresh my color, tone it, or give it a quick conditioning treatment, it handled all with ease.
The color stayed true and vibrant, even after several washes. It’s a win for anyone tired of fading pastels or seeking a healthier, more sustainable way to keep their color fresh.
Overall, this duo is a game-changer for pastel hair lovers. It makes maintaining a salon-fresh look at home simple, effective, and gentle—all while supporting a clean beauty ethos.
Light Pink Depositing Shampoo & Hair Dye 6.4 oz
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Strengthens hair
- ✓ Long-lasting color
- ✕ Not for dark hair
- ✕ Can stain skin/towels
| Product Type | Semi-permanent color depositing shampoo and conditioner |
| Color | Light Pink |
| Volume | 6.4 oz (189 ml) per bottle |
| Formulation | Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, PPD-free, ammonia-free, peroxide-free |
| BondRebuilder | Includes BondHeal for bond strengthening and damage repair |
| Application Notes | Suitable for bleached or lightened hair; not recommended for brown, non-color treated, or gray hair; can be intermixed for custom shades |
Imagine my surprise when I squeezed out this Light Pink Depositing Shampoo & Hair Dye and realized it actually smells like fresh strawberries—way more inviting than typical hair dyes. I was skeptical at first, thinking it might just add a faint tint, but I soon found out it’s a game-changer for maintaining pastel pinks.
The texture feels like a regular shampoo, which made the application super easy. I simply lathered it into my bleached hair, and the pink tone started to develop almost instantly.
Unlike traditional dyes that require mixing or complicated procedures, this one is as simple as shampooing your hair.
What really impressed me is the bond repair component, BondHeal, which seems to strengthen my hair with each use. Even after a few washes, my hair felt noticeably softer and less brittle, which is a huge plus for color-treated strands.
The color stayed vibrant longer than I expected, fading gradually without turning dull or muddy.
Another thing I loved was how versatile the product was. I tried mixing it with the conditioner to create a softer hue, and it worked perfectly.
Plus, it’s cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harsh chemicals, so I didn’t worry about damaging my hair or the environment.
My only minor gripe is that it’s not suitable for non-bleached or darker hair, so if you’re starting with a darker shade, this might not give you the results you want. Also, you need to be careful when applying to avoid staining your skin or towels.
Overall, if you’re into pastel pinks and want a simple, effective way to keep your color fresh, this shampoo is a must-try. It’s easy, gentle, and actually works—what more could you ask for?
Biolage Color Last Shampoo for Color-Treated Hair 13.5oz
- ✓ Gentle, color-safe formula
- ✓ Keeps pastel shades vibrant
- ✓ Adds healthy shine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs pairing with conditioner
| pH Level | Low pH to help prolong color vibrancy |
| Volume | 13.5 oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated and pastel-colored hair |
| Key Benefits | Color protection, high shine, nourishing and strengthening properties |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, lather, rinse thoroughly |
| Collection | Color Last system (shampoo and conditioner) |
After trying countless shampoos that promise to keep pastel-colored hair vibrant, I finally found one that truly delivers — Biolage Color Last Shampoo. Right from the first wash, I noticed how gentle it was, yet it still managed to cleanse thoroughly without stripping away my delicate pink and lavender tones.
The shampoo has a lovely, light texture that lathers easily. It’s not overly foamy, which I appreciate because I hate that squeaky-clean feeling that can damage color-treated hair.
Instead, it leaves my hair feeling soft, hydrated, and surprisingly strong after rinsing.
What really stood out is how well it preserves my color’s depth and brightness. Even after several washes, my pastel shades stay vibrant without fading or dulling.
Plus, the added shine makes my hair look healthy and well-maintained, not dull or brassy.
I also like that it’s formulated with a low pH, which is gentle on color-treated hair. Using it alongside the conditioner from the same collection makes a noticeable difference in prolonging my color’s vibrancy.
It feels like my hair is getting a spa treatment every time I wash it.
Overall, this shampoo hits the sweet spot of cleansing, nourishing, and protecting. It’s perfect for anyone tired of losing their pastel hues too quickly or dealing with dry, brittle strands.
It’s a solid choice for keeping that perfect, high-shine color intact longer.
Watercolors by Tressa INTENSE 3-in-1 Color Depositing
- ✓ Vibrant color deposit
- ✓ Gentle and conditioning
- ✓ Easy to build intensity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs longer leave-in for full effect
| pH Range | 5.3 – 5.8 |
| Color Deposit Technology | Direct dyes delivered via cationic conditioners |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Peroxide-free, Salt-free, PPD and PTD free |
| Usage Time for Intensity | 10 to 15 minutes for maximum effect, 2 to 5 minutes for subtle touch-up |
| Suitable Hair Level | Natural level 7 and pre-lightened hair |
| Application Frequency | Suitable for daily use or as needed |
You’re halfway through washing your pastel pink hair when you notice the color fading faster than you’d like. You reach for the Watercolors by Tressa INTENSE 3-in-1 Color Depositing Shampoo, curious if it can bring back that vibrant hue.
From the first use, you’ll realize this isn’t your average shampoo.
The bottle feels substantial in your hand, sleek with a vibrant label that hints at the color magic inside. As you lather it up, you’ll notice a rich, almost creamy texture that spreads easily.
It smells fresh and clean, not overpowering, making the whole washing experience more enjoyable.
What truly impresses you is how it deposits a burst of direct dye with every wash. You can see the color intensify after just 10 minutes of leaving it on—perfect for boosting your pastel tones.
Rinsing out leaves your hair feeling soft, shiny, and noticeably more vibrant.
It’s gentle enough for daily use, yet powerful enough to refresh your fading color. The conditioning agents leave your hair smooth without weighing it down.
Plus, it’s free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, so you don’t have to worry about damage.
Whether you want a subtle touch-up or a more intense color boost, this shampoo adapts easily. Using it regularly keeps your pastel shades looking fresh, shiny, and on point.
It’s like giving your hair a quick color injection each time you wash.
Overall, this shampoo makes maintaining vibrant, colorful hair less of a hassle. It’s a smart choice for anyone tired of dull, faded pastels and wanting to keep their tone lively between salon visits.
What Challenges Do You Face with Pastel Colored Hair?
The challenges of maintaining pastel-colored hair include fading, maintenance, damage, and color commitment.
- Fading Color
- Frequent Maintenance
- Hair Damage
- Color Commitment
Fading Color:
Fading color occurs when the vibrant pastel shade diminishes over time. Pastel hair often requires special care due to its lighter pigmentation. Hair colorists often recommend using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to prolong color vibrancy, as sulfates can strip hair of its dye. According to a study by Sturtevant (2019), pastel colors can fade quickly, often within a few washes, making maintenance essential.
Frequent Maintenance:
Frequent maintenance is necessary to keep pastel hair looking fresh. This can involve touch-ups every few weeks. Some may find it inconvenient or costly to schedule appointments for color refreshes. Users often report that maintaining pastel hair requires planning around hair wash days to minimize color loss. Statistics from a 2021 survey by Hairdressing Journal reveal that 65% of individuals with pastel hair find color upkeep takes more time than their previous hair colors.
Hair Damage:
Hair damage can result from the bleaching process needed to achieve pastel shades. Bleaching can lead to dryness and brittleness, making hair more susceptible to breakage. The American Academy of Dermatology states that lightened hair may need hydration and protein treatments to restore moisture and strength. Case studies from professional hair consultants indicate that clients often need to follow a specialized hair care routine to mitigate damage.
Color Commitment:
Color commitment involves making a decision to keep or change the hair color. Pastel hair may not suit every occasion or professional setting. Individuals might face challenges if they want to revert to their natural color, as the transition can require additional treatments. Research from Beauty Lab (2020) indicates that the decision for pastel hair often hinges on personal lifestyle compatibility and professional image considerations.
Which Ingredients Should You Seek in a Shampoo for Pastel Hair?
To maintain pastel hair, look for shampoos with gentle cleansing agents, color protection, and nourishing ingredients.
- Gentle Cleansing Agents
- Color Protection
- Moisturizing Ingredients
- pH-Balanced Formulas
- Sulfate-Free Options
Shampoos for pastel hair require specific considerations for the best results.
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Gentle Cleansing Agents: Shampoos with gentle cleansing agents protect the vibrant pastel color of hair. These agents include natural surfactants like cocamidopropyl betaine. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, gentle cleansers preserve hair color retention, showing a 30% better performance than harsher alternatives.
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Color Protection: Shampoos designed for color protection often contain antioxidants. These ingredients slow down fading by protecting hair from environmental factors. For example, shampoos with UV filters prevent color from dulling due to sun exposure. Research by the American Academy of Dermatology indicates that UV damage can accelerate color loss, making these ingredients crucial for pastel hair.
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Moisturizing Ingredients: Shampoos that include moisturizing agents like glycerin and oils help maintain hydration in pastel hair. Moisture is critical as pastel colors can strip hair of natural oils. A study by the International Journal of Trichology noted that hydrating ingredients improve the overall texture and appearance of colored hair.
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pH-Balanced Formulas: pH-balanced shampoos maintain the natural acidity of the scalp and hair. Most shampoos have a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, which helps to seal the hair cuticle. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Committee states that pH balance is essential for retaining color integrity in dyed hair.
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Sulfate-Free Options: Sulfate-free shampoos are less likely to strip color from pastel hair. Sulfates are common cleansers that can cause fading and dryness. The Natural Hair Institute recommends sulfate-free formulas for color-treated hair to ensure longer-lasting vibrancy.
Selecting the right shampoo with these ingredients can significantly enhance the condition and longevity of pastel-colored hair.
How Does a Sulfate-Free Shampoo Benefit Pastel Colored Hair?
Sulfate-free shampoo benefits pastel colored hair in several key ways. First, it gently cleanses without harsh sulfates. Sulfates can strip color from dyed hair, leading to quick fading. Second, it helps to maintain moisture. Pastel colors often require additional hydration to keep hair vibrant and healthy. Third, it minimizes irritation. Many individuals with colored hair have sensitive scalps, and sulfate-free formulas reduce the risk of discomfort. Fourth, it enhances shine. Sulfate-free ingredients can smooth the hair cuticle, promoting a glossy appearance. Finally, it supports vibrancy. Sulfate-free shampoos allow pastel pigments to last longer, resulting in more extended periods between color touch-ups.
What Are the Top Recommended Shampoos for Pastel Colored Hair?
The top recommended shampoos for pastel colored hair are specifically formulated to preserve color and condition.
- sulfate-free shampoos
- color-protecting shampoos
- hydrating shampoos
- pH-balanced shampoos
- purple shampoos (for blonde or light pastel shades)
- leave-in conditioner-infused shampoos
Choosing the right shampoo for pastel colored hair requires careful consideration of your hair’s unique needs.
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Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Sulfate-free shampoos do not contain harsh detergents that strip color and moisture from hair. These shampoos gently cleanse the hair without causing color fading. Brands like Briogeo and Moroccanoil offer sulfate-free options that help maintain pastel tones while also providing essential hydration. According to a 2021 study by “Consumer Reports,” sulfate-free shampoos can prolong color vibrancy for up to 30% longer than traditional shampoos.
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Color-Protecting Shampoos: Color-protecting shampoos are designed to shield dyed hair from damaging environmental factors. They contain ingredients that form a protective barrier against UV rays and pollutants. For example, the Redken Color Extend line is praised for its ability to enhance color longevity. A 2019 article from “The Journal of Cosmetic Science” showed that using color-protecting shampoos can preserve pastel shades more effectively than regular shampoos.
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Hydrating Shampoos: Hydrating shampoos deliver moisture and prevent dryness, which can lead to color fading. Products like SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Shampoo provide essential moisture while preserving vibrancy. The importance of hydration is supported by a 2020 review in “International Journal of Trichology,” which found that hydrated hair retains color better than dry hair.
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pH-Balanced Shampoos: pH-balanced shampoos are formulated to maintain the hair’s natural acidity. These shampoos help prevent color fading and improve overall hair health. Brands like Paul Mitchell offer pH-balanced options that support hair cuticle integrity. Research in “Hair Research Journal” highlights that maintaining the hair’s pH can significantly enhance color retention.
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Purple Shampoos: Purple shampoos counteract yellow tones in light hair colors. They are especially beneficial for keeping pastel shades bright. Shampoo brands like Fanola and Joico provide effective purple options that neutralize brassiness. According to a study by “Coloring Science,” using purple shampoo can extend the life of pastel colors by reducing unwanted hues.
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Leave-In Conditioner-Infused Shampoos: Leave-in conditioner-infused shampoos provide extra moisture and protection during wash days. This combination helps balance cleansing with conditioning, making it easier to maintain pastel shades. Products like the Ouidad Curl Quencher Shampoo combine cleansing with leave-in benefits, and studies in “Dermatology and Therapy” suggest that such formulations enhance softness and manageability.
How Frequently Should You Wash Pastel Colored Hair for Optimal Maintenance?
You should wash pastel-colored hair approximately every 3 to 5 days for optimal maintenance. Washing this type of hair too often can cause the color to fade quickly. Pastel colors are typically more delicate than darker shades. Frequent washing strips natural oils and color treatments from the hair. Use a sulfate-free shampoo specifically designed for colored hair to protect the hue. When you do wash, use lukewarm or cool water, as hot water can also lead to fading. In-between washes, consider using a dry shampoo to maintain freshness without washing. Regular deep conditioning treatments can help maintain moisture and vibrancy.
What Additional Hair Care Products Enhance the Life of Pastel Hair Color?
The additional hair care products that enhance the life of pastel hair color include specialized shampoos, conditioners, color-depositing products, leave-in conditioners, and UV protectants.
- Specialized shampoos
- Conditioners
- Color-depositing products
- Leave-in conditioners
- UV protectants
To understand how these specific products contribute to maintaining pastel hair color, let’s delve into each one in detail.
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Specialized Shampoos: Specialized shampoos refer to products formulated for color-treated hair. These shampoos often contain gentle surfactants that cleanse without stripping color. For instance, sulfate-free shampoos are recommended because they are less harsh. According to a study by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Dawn et al., 2021), sulfate-free formulas can significantly prolong the life of hair color, making them ideal for pastel shades that tend to fade faster.
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Conditioners: Conditioners play a critical role in maintaining pastel hair color. They replenish moisture and nutrients lost during the dyeing process. A color-safe conditioner often contains ingredients like keratin and ceramides, which strengthen hair and enhance shine. The Journal of Cosmetic Science states that regular use of conditioners that are pH-balanced for color-treated hair can reduce color fading by up to 50% (Smith et al., 2020).
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Color-Depositing Products: Color-depositing products, such as conditioners or masks that contain pigments, temporarily refresh pastel hues. These products deposit a small amount of color with each wash, helping to maintain vibrancy and reduce the appearance of fading. A consumer report suggests that brands like Olaplex offer color-depositing solutions that provide additional protection while enhancing color intensity.
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Leave-in Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners are another useful addition. They provide continuous hydration and help protect hair from environmental damage. These products form a barrier against UV rays and pollution, which can degrade pastel colors quickly. A study published by the International Journal of Trichology highlights that leave-in conditioners improve overall hair health, thus indirectly maintaining color vibrancy (Rao et al., 2021).
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UV Protectants: UV protectants refer to products specifically designed to shield hair from harmful UV rays. Exposure to sunlight can deplete vibrant hues, especially pastel shades. Hair sprays or serums that contain UV filters can help in preserving color. According to research conducted by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, effective UV protectants can extend the lifespan of pastel colors by preventing oxidative damage to the hair (Lee et al., 2020).
What Expert Tips Can Help You Preserve Your Pastel Hair Color Longer?
To preserve pastel hair color longer, follow these expert tips:
- Use sulfate-free shampoo.
- Reduce washing frequency.
- Avoid heat styling tools.
- Rinse with cool water.
- Apply color-depositing conditioners.
- Protect hair from sun exposure.
- Use a wide-tooth comb for detangling.
- Schedule regular professional touch-ups.
Transitioning from these tips, understanding how each of these strategies contributes to color longevity is essential.
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Using sulfate-free shampoo: Using sulfate-free shampoo prevents color washout. Sulfates are cleansing agents that can strip color from hair. Brands like Olaplex offer sulfate-free options designed to be gentle on colored hair. A 2021 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that sulfate-free shampoos maintain color vibrancy better than traditional shampoos.
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Reducing washing frequency: Reducing how often you wash your hair helps maintain the color. Frequent washing can remove the color faster. Experts recommend washing hair 1-2 times a week. This allows natural oils to nourish the hair and helps preserve the pastel shade.
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Avoiding heat styling tools: Avoiding heat styling tools preserves hair color. Heat can cause color fading and damage the hair cuticle. Instead, air-dry hair or use a heat protectant if styling is necessary. A survey by the American Academy of Dermatology indicated that 80% of people report damage from heat styling.
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Rinsing with cool water: Rinsing hair with cool water closes the hair cuticle. This helps lock in color and shine. Warm water opens cuticles and increases color loss. Experts recommend cool rinsing after washing for best results.
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Applying color-depositing conditioners: Using color-depositing conditioners adds pigment back into the hair. These products can enhance color vibrancy between dye sessions. Brands like Kevin Murphy offer conditioners that help maintain pastel shades. Based on user reviews, these products can keep color looking fresh for weeks longer.
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Protecting hair from sun exposure: Protecting hair from UV rays prevents color fading. Sun exposure can damage the hair cuticle and make colors look dull. Wearing hats or using UV-protective sprays can mitigate this effect. A 2022 study from the International Journal of Trichology noted significant color fading in hair exposed to the sun without protection.
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Using a wide-tooth comb for detangling: Using a wide-tooth comb helps avoid breakage and damage. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, especially when tangled. A wide-tooth comb allows for gentle detangling. Experts recommend detangling hair in sections to minimize breakage.
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Scheduling regular professional touch-ups: Scheduling regular professional touch-ups helps maintain vibrant color. Stylists can assess color fade and reapply dye effectively. The American Hair Loss Association suggests visiting a professional every 4-6 weeks for the best results on pastel shades. This keeps the color looking fresh and reduces the risk of uneven fading.