How to Make Washable Dye Last Longer

Using special shampoos is one way to keep washable dye in.

Hair dye is easy to apply, but it is not always easy to keep in the resulting new hair color. This is especially true of washable or temporary dyes. These dyes are not as harsh on your hair, so they are desirable for those who don't want to use harsh chemicals. If you wish to use washable dye but want to make it last longer, there are a few helpful tips that can be applied both before and after the dye application.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Color shampoo
• Conditioner
• Shower cap
• Water purification showerhead

Instructions

1. Shampoo your hair, but don't condition, before you dye. Shampoo will strip off any oils or product buildup on your hair, which helps the dye seep into the strands. Conditioner will coat the hair, preventing the dye from bonding. The more it bonds to the hair, the longer the dye will stay in.

2. Rinse your hair with vinegar after the dye is rinsed out. This will help some temporary hair color to set in, which will extend its life. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply to your hair, rinsing out after two minutes.

3. Put on a swimming cap if you are going to swim. The chlorine and other chemicals used to keep the pool water clean can strip the color out of your hair, shortening the lifespan of the color.

4. Shampoo using a special color-treated hair shampoo. Most of these shampoos have some hair dye in them or special color enhancers that extend the life of the dye. Use these in place of regular shampoo.

5. Skip a shampoo, if possible. Unless your hair is very oily or you have been in an environment that would make your hair smell (such as a smoky bar), then it is perfectly fine to skip a shampoo. Each time you shampoo, some of the color is removed from your hair. Shampooing every other day can potentially double the time the dye will stay vibrant.

6. Condition your hair after every shampoo. Though you shouldn't condition right before dying, it is important to condition afterwards. Conditioner coats the hair follicles, protecting the dye and helping it last longer.

7. Install a water purifying system on your shower head. There are additives in tap water that can potentially strip dye, causing your hair to fade quickly. Installing a water purifier can remove these additives, thereby lessening the risk of dye stripping.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Secrets to Longer-Lasting Haircolor
• Manic Panic: How to Use
• Jazma: Hair Coloring Tips