So, you just hit up the salon and got your hair did. The color is looking fresh and gorgeous, and you’re feeling your best self. Whether you love experimenting with hair color, or just enjoy getting some highlights done, making your color last can sometimes be a challenge. Yes, it’s inevitable that you’ll need touch ups done eventually. But, there are some things you can definitely do to help keep that “just left the salon” hue to your tresses as long as possible.

Hold Off On That First Wash

Experts say that it’s better to try to go at least a day or two between washing your hair nowadays in general. This is especially true right after you’ve had your hair colored. Most stylists and colorists will tell you to forgo washing your mane for at least 24 hours after getting some dye done. The reason behind this is because after dyeing, hair cuticles open up. When they’re open, color can fade faster. Giving your hair a day or two wash-free will allow those cuticles a chance to close back up, and the dye to really take hold. If you can wait 48 hours after your hair gets done to wash, that’s even more ideal.

Lay Off The Styling Tools

Oh, how we love our blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons. But you know what doesn’t love them? Our hair. Over use of hot styling tools can do a real number on our strands. It can also lead to your hair color fading a lot more rapidly. If you simply can’t live without these tools, consider getting a thermal protectant spray to use before employing them.

Lower That Water Temperature

For some of us, a shower just isn’t a shower unless the water is good and hot. We’re not saying you have to give that up to protect your hair color. Well, not entirely any way. You know how they say steam and warm washcloths are great for opening up pores? Well, the same thing applies to your hair cuticles. Those warmer temperatures coax those cuticles into opening right up, and whoops, there goes your hair color down the drain. When it comes time to wash your hair, room temperature water is best. If you really want to go hardcore and protect that new dye job even more, use the coldest water you can stand when it comes time to rinse out your conditioner. This will help the cuticles to seal back up after your shower, and lock in the color and the moisture in your tresses.

Protect Your Hair At The Pool Or Beach

You likely already know that chlorine is no great friend to your hair in general, let alone your hair color. The sun can also do a real number on it. Even salt-water can be detrimental to your new do’s hue. While at the beach or the pool, donning an adorable hat can go a long way towards keeping your color intact, and protecting your skin and face in the process. Another tip is to look for a hair protector with an SPF. Hair gurus swear by products which feature sunflower oil. It both serves to protect your hair, and provides those ever important antioxidants. You can also use a leave in conditioner before taking a dip.

Get A Shampoo And Conditioner That Is For Color Treated Hair

While you could certainly stick to your usual fave brand, picking something specifically made for dyed hair will go a long way to preserving your new look. Shampoo for color treated hair typically has ingredients in it specifically included to help nourish, strengthen, and hydrate your hair. This is important since dying your mane can be rough on the hair itself. Some regular shampoos also contain items that can strip color. You’ll want to avoid anything with alcohol or sulfate. Also to be avoided? Clarifying and dandruff shampoos.