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Ani Wenger
Book

Color care

Why does my hair color fade so fast?

The short answer

Hot water, harsh shampoos, sun, and heat styling wash color out. Wash less often in cool water, use a color-safe shampoo, and protect your hair from heat.

Long brunette waves with soft caramel dimension, colored and styled by Ani

Color molecules escape every time the cuticle opens. Most fading comes from a few everyday habits:

  • Hot showers. Rinse in lukewarm or cool water.
  • Washing every day. Two or three times a week is plenty for most hair.
  • Harsh shampoo. Choose a gentle, color-safe formula.
  • Sun and heat. Use a heat protectant before styling and a hat at the beach.

Red and copper tones fade fastest. A gloss between color appointments brings the shine and tone back in half an hour.

Written by Ani Wenger, European master hairstylist. This is general hair care advice, not medical advice.

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