Coloring is most often done for aesthetic purposes, but it can tend to dehydrate hair fibers and fade over time. To counteract these inconveniences, using a hair mask is highly recommended. Let us explain why!
Which mask should be used for colored hair?
- How are colored hair characterized?
- How to properly maintain your colored hair on a daily basis?
- Source
How are colored hair characterized?
There are three main types of hair dyes on the market: temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent. Only temporary dyes do not alter the deep structure of the hair; indeed, the molecules that compose them have a high affinity with the hair's keratin and attach to its surface without penetrating the cortex. This is why temporary dyes generally fade after the first shampoo.
However, semi-permanent and permanent dyes work differently. These treatments are capable ofopening the scales, penetrating the cuticle and diffusing into the cortex. Yet, let's remember that the primary function of the cuticle scales is to protect the hair shaft. This action, therefore, weakens the hair while making it dry. Colored hair is generally weakened and sensitive to its environment, hence its often dull and tired appearance.
How to properly maintain your colored hair on a daily basis?
On a daily basis, several steps should be taken to care for your colored hair.
Opt for a gentle shampoo, free of sulfates and silicones.
Sulfates, which are surfactants, are widely found in shampoos due to their excellentdetergent properties. Additionally, they are inexpensive and create a significant amount of foam when in contact with water, often seen as a sign of a shampoo's effectiveness by users. However, the detergent power of sulfates is strong and can cause scalp irritations. They damage hair fibers and sometimes trigger allergic reactions. Moreover, they make hair brittle and split-ended. They also promote a texture difference between the root (oily) and the ends (dry). Furthermore, these harmful effects are usually combined with those caused by the presence of silicone in these types of treatments, which are very occlusive ingredients. In the long run, sulfates and silicones weaken the scalp by diminishing thenatural keratinof the hair. We have developed three shampoos without sulfates or silicones, to address different hair issues (lack of volume, dryness, dandruff).
Rinse your hair with lukewarm to cold water.
During rinsing, hot water should be avoided as it has harsh properties on colored hair whose cuticles are already weakened. Cold water, on the other hand, will help the hair cuticles to close back up.
Choose your hair mask wisely.
After shampooing and conditioning, it is highly recommended to apply a hair mask one to two times per week for colored hair. Moreover, when the hair is washed and rid of impurities, treatments penetrate more deeply into the hair fiber. Hair masks suitable for colored hair are generally rich, restorative formulas or specialized treatments for this type of hair. For instance, you could use our repairing hair mask. Composed of 98% natural origin ingredients, this mask deeply nourishes and repairs the hair fiber thanks to the synergy of 3 natural actives: biomimetic ceramides, mango butter, and avocado oil. The result is hair that is flexible, shiny, and silky.
Gently comb your hair.
Limit styling and favor the use of a wide-toothed wooden comb. Style your hair immediately after washing it and let it air dry. We advise against using a hairdryer on colored hair.
Source:
Anne-Sophie Pelletier, Cindy Vivet, Jean-Marie Aubry et Véronique Nardello-Rataj, Les colorations capillaires du XXIe siècle, L’actualité chimique, (2011).
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