The Short Answer
Hair colour fades because the cuticle opens and pigment escapes over time. Washing, hot water, heat styling, sun exposure, and harsh cleansers all speed up fading.
Prevention comes from gentle cleansing, consistent conditioning, and controlled heat.
Who This Is Best For
- Colour treated hair that fades quickly.
- Hair that looks dull between salon visits.
- Blondes that lose tone or become brassy.
- Reds that fade faster than expected.
- Clients who wash frequently.
Who May Need a Different Focus
- Hair that is severely damaged and breaks easily.
- Clients using bleach services without repair support.
- Hair that is dull mainly from dryness rather than fade.
How Stylists at Cabelo Explain Colour Fade
Colour fade is normal, but the rate varies. The more the cuticle is opened by washing, heat, or environmental stress, the faster pigment leaves the hair.
Our goal is to keep the cuticle calmer and the hair hydrated so tone stays clearer for longer.
Common Causes of Colour Fade
- Hot water during washing.
- Frequent washing without colour focused care.
- Strong clarifying cleansers used too often.
- Heat styling at high temperatures.
- Sun exposure and seasonal dryness.
Common Mistakes We See
- Washing daily with hot water.
- Shampooing the lengths aggressively.
- Skipping conditioner to avoid weight.
- Using heat tools without protection.
How to Prevent Colour Fade
Prevention is a routine. It is not one product. Start with wash habits, then support with consistent care.
Wash Habits That Protect Colour
- Use lukewarm water, not hot water.
- Shampoo the scalp, not the lengths.
- Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue.
- Condition mid lengths and ends every wash.
Heat Habits That Protect Colour
- Use heat protection before blow drying or hot tools.
- Keep temperatures moderate.
- Reduce repeated passes on the same section.
- Let hair cool before brushing heavily.
Environmental Habits That Protect Colour
- Protect hair from sun when possible.
- Rinse hair after swimming.
- Hydrate hair more consistently in winter months.
What to Pair It With
Use the colour care guide to choose the right routine. Shop by concern to compare options. Follow a colour protection routine for structure.
Common Questions
Does colour safe shampoo stop fading completely
No. It helps slow fading. Wash frequency, water temperature, and heat habits still matter.
Why do reds fade faster
Red tones can release faster than deeper pigments. Consistent colour care and cooler water helps.
Why does blonde turn brassy
Brassiness often comes from undertone exposure as colour fades, along with mineral or environmental buildup.
Final Verdict
Hair colour fades faster when washing and heat are too aggressive. Colour lasts longer with gentle cleansing, consistent conditioning, and controlled heat.
Next step: Explore Colour Care products