How to Wash Highlighted Hair

Co-authored by Patrick Evan

Last Updated: October 30, 2022 References

Getting highlights in your hair can really brighten up your look and give you self-confidence, but there's nothing worse than having that color fade away too soon. Washing your hair properly is important for maintaining hair color for as long as possible while maintaining healthy hair. By properly shampooing, conditioning and caring for your hair, you can keep highlighted hair bright and healthy for longer.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Shampooing and Conditioning Your Hair

1
Find products formulated for colored hair. The shampoos and conditioners you use will make a difference to the longevity of the color and overall health of your hair. Color protecting products will help protect your hair.^{[1]
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Research source} Some products are designed for specific hair colors so keep that in mind when choosing the right product for your highlights.
- Use sulfate-free products where possible, as sulfate products contains salt which can strip your hair of its natural oils and accelerate color loss.^{[2]
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- Avoid clarifying shampoos. These are designed to cleanse the hair of excess product, oils or impurities, but will also rid your hair of that beautiful color over time.
- Dandruff shampoos can cause your highlights to fade, so if you need dandruff shampoo, look for one specifically for colored or highlighted hair.
2
Wait 72 hours after coloring before washing hair. When your hair gets colored, the cuticle layer is opened to allow color to penetrate easily.^{[3]
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Research source} This layer can take up to 3 days to close so it's important to wait before washing your hair to give the color pigment enough time to fully soak into your hair.

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3
Rinse your hair with lukewarm water. Your hair should be thoroughly wet before applying shampoo and conditioner to help it easily absorb essential oils. If you use hot water, the heat will lift the outer cuticle layer which will cause your new color to fade over time.^{[4]
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4
Apply your chosen shampoo and conditioner. Make sure you follow the directions on their packaging. You will generally only need to shampoo and condition once per wash.
- When shampooing, use a quarter sized dollop of shampoo and focus on the hair closest to your scalp, as this is where it'll be the most oily.^{[5]
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- Condition the middle to ends of your hair, to give the older, drier ends some much needed moisture, and leave it in for a few minutes to absorb.^{[6]
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5
Rinse with cold water. Using cold water after conditioning your hair locks in the moisture and helps keep your highlights from fading. You'll want to thoroughly and gently remove the conditioner from your hair.
6
Use a leave-in conditioner. For additional pampering, or if your hair is frequently exposed to heat, consider giving it a leave-in conditioner treatment by following the instructions on the packet. Don't forget to make sure this is formulated for colored hair.
- Leave-in conditioners promote hair growth and can help you achieve healthier hair for longer
- There are also a variety of options for leave-in hair conditioners that you can make at home.
7
Wash your hair 2-3 times per week. This can vary depending on your hair type. Finer hair may require more frequent washing because of the natural build-up of oils in your hair which may weigh it down.^{[7]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Caring for Your Hair after Washing

1
Use a microfibre towel to dry your hair. When using a towel, avoid twisting or roughly rubbing your hair.^{[8]
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Research source} Instead, gently blot your hair with a soft towel to prevent tangling and damage.
2
Use heat protectants when blow drying hair. If you need to use a blow dryer, make sure you protect your hair from the heat as much as possible. Hair dryers will remove all the moisture from your hair, resulting in drier, faded hair.^{[9]
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Research source} It is also important to have it set to low heat to minimise damage.
3
Use lightweight oils suited to your hair type. The antioxidants, vitamins and essential fatty acids in hair oil can add shine and protect your hair.^{[10]
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Research source
therighthairstyles.com/how-to-choose-a-hair-oil/} Comb a few drops through your hair before blow drying to help protect it from the heat.
- It is important to choose the best hair oil for your hair type as there is a wide variety available.
- You may also want to consider an essential oil to supplement the naturally occurring oils in your hair.
4
Use a color-safe dry shampoo. On the days where you don't wash your hair, a dry shampoo can help absorb excess oils without stripping the hair of necessary oils.^{[11]
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Research source} Focus the dry shampoo on your roots to keep your hair looking fresh in between washes.
5
Avoid the sun and swimming pools as much as possible. The UV rays and chlorine in pools can cause the color in your highlights to fade. You may also want to try a leave-in conditioner or hairspray that have SPF in them to help protect your hair. Some products may also contain vitamins to help prevent further damage.
- If you can't avoid the pool on vacation, use a swimming cap or apply a strengthening conditioner to help protect your hair before swimming.
- When you're participating in outdoor activities, try to stay in the shade as much as possible or wear a hat.

Expert Q&A

Question

What is the best shampoo and conditioner for color treated hair?

Patrick Evan
Professional Hair Stylist
Patrick Evan is the Owner of Patrick Evan Salon, a hair salon in San Francisco, California. He has been a hairstylist for over 25 years and is a Thermal Reconditioning Specialist, dedicated to transforming difficult curls and waves into sleek, straight hair. Patrick Evan Salon was rated the Best Hair Salon in San Francisco by Allure magazine, and Patrick's work has been featured in Woman’s Day, The Examiner, and 7x7.

Patrick Evan

Professional Hair Stylist

Expert Answer

Most conditioners are color-safe, but check your shampoo more carefully, since shampoos often contain sulfates. Sulfates act as surfactants and make the shampoo foamy, but they can also be harsh and cause your color to fade. Shampoos without sulfates are your best option for washing highlighted hair.
Question

When do I need to wash off the vinegar after applying it to my hair?

Community Answer

The approximate time limit for washing off your hair after applying vinegar is 30 minutes maximum and 15-25 minimum.