Your hair color is an investment, and it’s important to take steps to protect it from fading or losing vibrancy too quickly. Whether you have natural or dyed hair, there are several things you can do to maintain its color for longer.

Here are some tips for protecting your hair color:.

1. Use Color-Safe Products

When it comes to protecting your hair color, you should start with the basics: your shampoo and conditioner.

Look for products specifically designed for color-treated hair that are free of sulfates and parabens, as these chemicals can strip your hair of its color. Instead, opt for color-safe products that nourish and hydrate your hair while keeping your color looking fresh.

2. Avoid Heat Styling

Heat styling tools like curling irons and straighteners can damage your hair and cause your color to fade faster. Avoid excessive heat styling, or invest in a heat protectant spray that will help protect your hair from heat damage.

When you do heat style, use the lowest heat setting possible and avoid using the tool on wet hair, which is more susceptible to damage.

3. Limit Sun Exposure

UV rays from the sun can also cause your hair color to fade. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, consider wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray that will shield your hair from the sun’s rays.

You can also try using a color-depositing conditioner that contains UV protection to help keep your hair color from fading in the sun.

4. Rinse with Cold Water

Hot water can open up the hair cuticle, which can cause your hair color to fade faster. After shampooing, rinse your hair with cool or cold water to help close the cuticle and seal in your color.

It might not be the most pleasant experience, but it could mean the difference between your color lasting a few weeks versus a few months.

5. Don’t Over-Wash Your Hair

Washing your hair every day can strip it of its natural oils and cause your color to fade. Instead, aim to wash your hair every two to three days, or as needed.

On days when you don’t wash your hair, consider using a dry shampoo to refresh your hair and absorb excess oil.

6. Use a Leave-In Conditioner

A leave-in conditioner can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy, which in turn can help your color last longer.

Look for a lightweight leave-in conditioner that won’t weigh your hair down, and apply it to the ends of your hair after washing and conditioning. Be sure to comb your hair after applying the conditioner to distribute it evenly.

7. Be Careful with Chlorine

Chlorine in pools can cause your hair color to turn green or become dull over time. If you swim regularly, consider wearing a swim cap to protect your hair.

You can also try wetting your hair with cool water before entering the pool, as this can limit the amount of chlorine that your hair absorbs. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water and apply a clarifying shampoo to remove any chlorine buildup.

8. Avoid Over-Processing Your Hair

If you have color-treated or highlighted hair, it’s important to avoid over-processing it. This means avoiding frequent touch-ups or excessive bleaching, which can cause your hair to become brittle and prone to breakage.

Work with your stylist to find a color and maintenance schedule that works for you and your hair type.

9. Use a Hair Mask Once a Week

A weekly hair mask can help hydrate and nourish your hair, which can help protect your color from fading. Look for a mask that’s formulated for color-treated hair, and apply it to damp hair once a week after washing.

Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.

10. Schedule Regular Salon Visits

Finally, scheduling regular salon visits is key to maintaining your hair color. Depending on your hair type and the color you’ve chosen, you may need to touch up your roots or refresh your color every four to six weeks.

Work with your stylist to create a maintenance plan that will keep your hair looking its best for as long as possible.