How Long Does Hair Colour Last From A Salon
Colouring your hair at a salon is one of the most popular ways to change your look. From vibrant reds to cool blondes, endless hair colour options can give you a whole new attitude.
But if you've ever had your hair coloured at a salon, you may have wondered how long it will last before it starts to fade or lose its vibrancy. In this guide, we'll dive into the factors that determine how long your hair colour will last from a salon and offer tips for extending the life of your colour.
What is Hair Colour?
Hair colour, also known as hair dye or hair pigment, is a cosmetic product used to change the colour of one's natural hair. It works by penetrating the hair shaft and depositing pigment molecules that alter the appearance of the hair.
The most common types of hair colour are permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary. Permanent hair colour contains chemicals that lift the hair's natural pigment and replace it with new colour molecules.
Semi-permanent hair colour does not contain these harsh chemicals but instead coats the hair shaft with a colour that gradually fades over time. As the name suggests, temporary hair colour is only temporary and can easily be washed out after a few shampoos.
In addition to traditional hair dye, more natural options, such as henna and vegetable-based dyes, use plant pigments to colour the hair. These tend to be gentler on the hair but may offer less shade variety.
Factors That Affect Hair Colour Longevity
Several factors can affect how long your hair colour will last from a salon. These include:
Hair type and condition
The type and condition of your hair can greatly impact the longevity of your hair colour. For example, if you have fine or damaged hair, it may not hold onto colour or hold on to healthier hair. This is because damaged hair has a more porous cuticle that allows colour molecules to escape more easily.
Similarly, the excess sebum can cause hair colour to fade faster if you have very oily hair. On the other hand, if your hair is dry and lacking in moisture, it may have a harder time retaining colour.
Also, gray or white hair can be more resistant to colour and may require a stronger formula or longer processing time for the colour to penetrate fully.
Colour choice
The shade and type of hair colour you choose can also affect how long it will last. Generally, darker colours tend to last longer than lighter shades because they contain more pigment. So, if you want your hair colour to last longer, it's best to opt for a deeper shade.
Another factor is the type of colour formula used. As mentioned earlier, permanent hair colour contains harsh chemicals that can lift and penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in a longer-lasting colour. However, this also means that your hair may be more prone to damage and breakage.
Semi-permanent and temporary colours tend to fade faster, but they are gentler on the hair and can be a good option for those with damaged or sensitive strands.
Application technique
The way a stylist applies your hair colour can also impact its longevity. If the colour is not evenly applied or if there are patches of missed spots, it can result in uneven fading and a shorter lifespan of your colour.
It's important for your stylist to properly section and saturate the hair with colour, making sure to cover all strands. They should also avoid overlapping already-coloured sections, which can cause damage and result in uneven colour.
Maintenance routine
Your at-home hair care routine can also affect how long your salon colour will last. Using the right products for coloured hair and following a proper maintenance routine can help extend the life of your colour.
Avoid harsh shampoos or clarifying treatments, as these can strip away colour molecules and cause fading. Instead, opt for sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for coloured hair.
Additionally, try to limit heat styling as much as possible, as excessive heat can cause the colour to fade. When you do use heat tools, make sure to use a thermal protectant and adjust the temperature to a lower setting.
Average Lifespan of Salon Hair Colour
The average lifespan of salon hair colour can vary depending on the factors mentioned above, as well as individual hair type and maintenance routine.
However, as a general guideline, permanent hair colour can last up to six weeks before a touch-up is needed. Semi-permanent colour may fade after about four weeks, and temporary colour may only last a few washes.
It's important to remember that these timelines are not set in stone and can vary for each individual. Some people may find their colour lasts longer, while others may need more frequent touch-ups.
And, of course, the best way to maintain your hair colour is to follow a proper maintenance routine and visit your stylist for touch-ups as needed. With proper care, you can enjoy vibrant and long-lasting salon hair colour.
Average Cost of Salon Hair Colour
The cost of salon hair colour can vary depending on the type and brand of colour used, as well as the location and reputation of the salon. On average, a single-process permanent hair colour can cost anywhere from $50 to $150.
Semi-permanent and temporary colours may be slightly cheaper, ranging from $30 to $100. However, these may require more frequent touch-ups so that the overall cost can increase.
Additionally, if you opt for more specialized techniques like balayage or ombre, the cost can be higher due to the time and skill required for these processes.
It's also important to note that some salons may charge additional fees for longer or thicker hair or any additional treatments such as toners or glosses.
While salon hair colour may be more expensive than at-home options, it often provides better and longer-lasting results. It's important to consider the cost versus the benefits and choose what is best for your budget and desired outcome.
Mistakes to Avoid When Colouring Your Hair
If you're considering colouring your hair at home, it's important to avoid some common mistakes that can result in less-than-desirable results. These include:
Not following instructions properly: Always read and follow the instructions on the hair dye box carefully. Doing so can result in correct mixing or processing time and uneven or patchy colour.
Skipping a strand test: It's important to do a strand test before applying colour to your hair, especially if you've never used the product. This can help you avoid allergic reactions and show you how the colour will turn out.
Not protecting your skin: Hair dye can stain your skin, so apply a barrier cream or petroleum jelly along your hairline, ears, and neck before colouring.
Using old or expired products: Always check the expiration date on your hair dye before using it. Using expired products can result in ineffective colour or even damage your hair.
Not doing a patch test: If you have a history of allergies or sensitive skin, it's important to do a patch test at least 48 hours before colouring your hair. This can help you determine if you may have an adverse reaction to the product.
Going too dark or light: When choosing a hair colour, it's important to stay within two shades of your natural colour. Going too dark or light can result in drastic and potentially unflattering results.
By avoiding these mistakes and following proper application techniques, you can achieve beautiful and long-lasting salon-worthy hair colour at home.
FAQs
How long does permanent hair dye from a salon typically last before it begins to fade?
Permanent hair dye is designed to penetrate the hair cuticle and deposit Colour into the hair shaft, making it a long-lasting option. Generally, demi permanent hair color can last between 4 to 6 weeks before noticeable fading begins, although this can vary based on hair type and maintenance routines.
What is the difference in longevity between permanent and semi-permanent hair dye?
Permanent hair dye changes the natural hair color by entering the hair cuticle and lasting until new hair grows in, typically requiring a touch-up every 4 to 6 weeks due to root growth. In contrast, semi-permanent hair dyes coat the hair's surface without deeply penetrating the cuticle, resulting in color that permanent hair dye last about 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the frequency of washing and the hair's condition.
Can colored hair experience colour fade, and how can it be prevented?
Yes, coloured hair, especially with permanent dye, can experience colour fade over time due to factors like sun exposure, frequent washing, and the use of harsh hair products. To minimize colour fade, use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners, reduce washing frequency, avoid high heat styling tools, and consider using UV protectant sprays for your hair.
How can I extend the life of semi-permanent hair color and prevent it from fading too quickly?
To extend the lifespan of semi-permanent hair Colour and maintain its vibrancy, wash your hair less frequently and use lukewarm or cool water, as hot water can cause the Colour to fade more quickly. Additionally, opt for sulfate-free and color-safe hair care products, and try to avoid excessive sun exposure or chlorine, which can also lead to premature fading of semi-permanent dyes.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking to change your look, cover gray hairs, or enhance your natural colour, salon hair colouring can be a great option for achieving the desired results. You can enjoy vibrant and long-lasting colours, understand the different types of hair colours and their application techniques, follow proper maintenance routines, and avoid common miscolours.
It's always best to consult a professional stylist for personalized advice and the best colour options for your hair type and desired outcome. Proper care lets you keep your salon hair colour looking fresh and beautiful until your next touch-up appointment.
Salon Haze is an award-winning hair salon in Vancouver, Kitsilano area. We are specialists in colour and style. If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us, and we’ll talk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.
Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver. Call now at 604-620-9986 or email us at service@salonhaze.com.