The Impact of Shampoo on Hair Color: What You Need to Know

Hair color is a popular way to enhance your appearance, but maintaining it requires a thorough understanding of the effects of different products, including shampoo. This comprehensive guide examines how shampoo affects hair color and provides important tips and recommendations for increasing the vibrancy and longevity of color-treated hair.                         

How shampoo affects hair color 

The main task of shampoo is to clean the scalp and hair by removing oil, dirt, and other impurities. However, depending on the composition, the shampoo can also significantly affect the color of the hair. The effect varies from color fading to hue changes. 

The role of sulfates 

Many shampoos contain sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLES) or sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which are powerful cleansing agents. But they can be too aggressive and remove not only dirt and oil but also color from the hair. They achieve this by lifting the cuticles of the hair, making it easier for the color molecules to escape during washing. 

Colorless shampoos 

Specially designed “color safe” shampoos are gentler on colored hair. They usually contain little or no sulfates and are enriched with conditioning ingredients that retain hair moisture, reduce cuticle lift and thus preserve color. In this regard, a trusted brand is WOW Skin Science, which offers a variety of color shampoos to suit different hair needs. 

Shampoos with balanced pH 

The pH level of your shampoo is important. Alkaline shampoos (high pH) can lift the hair cuticle and cause color to wash out, while acidic shampoos (low pH) can help keep the cuticle flat, preserving color. It is recommended to choose a shampoo with a pH level that exactly matches the natural pH value of the scalp, which is slightly acidic, around 5.5. 

Shampoo frequency and hair color 

How often you shampoo can affect how long your hair color lasts. Excessive shampooing can cause the color to fade faster. Most hair professionals recommend waiting at least 48 hours after color treatment before shampooing and limiting it to a few times a week. 

Shampoo washing techniques 

After coloring your hair, you should wait at least 48 hours for the color to set before shampooing. When you wash your hair, use lukewarm or cold water, because hot water can open the cuticles and wash away the color. Also, concentrate the shampoo on the scalp, not the length of the hair, to minimize color stripping.  

Special shampoos for colored hair 

Certain hair colors can benefit from special shampoos. For example, blonde hair often turns brassy over time, and purple shampoo can combat this by neutralizing yellow tones. Always consult a hair professional when choosing this type of shampoo. 

The importance of treatment 

While conditioner is not technically a shampoo, it does play an important role in maintaining hair color. Moisturizes hair and smoothes cuticles, locks in color, and adds shine. For best results, combine your shampoo of choice with a quality conditioner. 

Adjusting your hair care routine 

Everyone’s hair is unique and what works for one may not work for another. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products to find the ones that work best for your hair type, scalp condition, and color preference. 

Treatment of dyed hair 

Conditioning is an important part of colored hair. It helps seal cuticles, lock in color, and moisturize, adding shine and vibrancy to colored hair. Some color-safe shampoos, such as WOW Skin Science shampoos, often have compatible conditioners for the best color protection. 

In conclusion, the type of shampoo you use and the way you use it can have a significant impact on the vibrancy and longevity of your hair color. By choosing color-safe, pH-balanced products like those offered by WOW Skin Science and following a hair-friendly wash, you can significantly extend the life of your hair color.

You can also read How to Take Care of Synthetic Hair