How to Make Temporary Hair Dye Last as Long as Possible

Coloring your hair at home is much less expensive than visiting a salon.

Temporary hair dyes are inexpensive and convenient. They are easy to wash in, but they wash out -- almost just as easily. Temporary dyes are perfect when seeking a short-term style change and work well for periodic home-maintenance on an already professionally established hair color. When looking for a temporary dye to maintain its radiance for any substantial amount of time, however, you'll be hard-pressed to have it last any longer than a few washings -- unless you follow a few very simple guidelines.

Things You'll Need

• Mild shampoo
• Water

Instructions

1. 

   Excessive shampooing will quickly wash away temporary color.

   Cut back on how often you wash your hair. Frequent washings will strip the hair it of its color much quicker than not. Temporary hair dyes are not actually absorbed into the hair strand; they coat the hair and are thus more susceptible to frequent washings.

2. 

   Many shampoos contain harsh, hair-stripping substances -- like sulfates.

   Use shampoos that are specifically designed to extend the life of hair color. Some shampoos clearly state their color-preserving intentions. As a general rule, mild shampoos, free of sulfates and sodium chloride, are best suited for color-treated hair (temporary or otherwise). Sulfates function as a detergent in shampoo and can strip your hair of its natural oils and coloring. Sodium chloride is essentially salt, which is highly abrasive and capable of bleaching hair.

3. Apply a hair gloss. This will coat the hair making it more impenetrable from the elements that diminish color. Many salons provide this service, but there are over-the-counter options that are just as effective.

Tips & Warnings

• Herbs can be used to naturally dye hair. They contain properties that will also preserve previous coloring. Crafting an herbal hair rinse is easy. Create an infusion by boiling 2 cups of water. Remove from heat and add a 1/2 cup of herbs. Cover and let sit for at least 30 minutes to create a rich infusion. Cool, strain, and apply to washed, wet hair. Use herbs that best correspond to your color: chamomile and calendula are most excellent for blonde hair; black walnut, rosemary and coffee are well suited for dark brown hair; red hair can be color-enhanced by rinsing with saffron, rose-hips or red hibiscus. Leave the herbal rinse in your hair for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing with water. Herbal rinses are completely safe and can be used at least once a week.

• Chemically derived hair dyes can dry out your hair and increase its susceptibility to damage. If coloring your hair often, even with temporary dyes, be sure to moisturize the hair often with a quality conditioner.

References

• Temporary Hair Color: Color that Washes In and Out
• The Beauty Brains; Sulfates in Shampoos - What Are They?; June 2007
• New World Encyclopedia: Sodium Chloride

Resources

• Ecomall: Safe Ways to Color Your Hair