When you color your hair, you’re not just adding pigment; you’re also altering its natural protein structure. This process can deplete keratin, the very thing that keeps your hair strong and healthy. Without a strong foundation, your hair becomes more susceptible to damage and, you guessed it, color fading. The key to long-lasting vibrancy isn't just about surface-level care. It’s about replenishing what’s lost. By infusing your hair with high-quality keratin, you can rebuild its strength from the inside out. This guide will explain how a keratin-focused routine is the ultimate way to protect hair color.
Does Keratherapy Actually Protect Hair Color? My Honest Review
Review: Let me begin by telling you I have black hair, of course I get it bleached regularly. On top of that in May of 2019 I decided to go a more natural approach and let the curls bust through. As a result, I seem to have way more frizz and cannot control the curls very well. I am often still experimenting with products and am not used to styling my curly hair. I am naturally a 2A-2B depending on the weather and season. I am more comfortable with straightening my hair and when I have a meeting, I choose to straighten it because I know exactly the results I will get and don't have to worry if I will create a static electric charge just by walking down the street. The keratherapy system, including the shampoo and conditioner paired with the blowout spray and the thermal brush left my hair super smooth and frizz free.
Understanding Why Hair Color Fades
That fresh-from-the-salon color is a feeling we all want to hold onto for as long as possible. But why does that vibrant hue seem to wash away over time? The answer lies in the science of your hair strands. When you color your hair, the process changes its structure, making it more susceptible to losing those beautiful color molecules you just paid for. It’s not just about the products you use; it’s also about understanding how your hair behaves after a color treatment. Factors like your hair's porosity, your daily habits, and even the environment play a significant role in how long your color lasts. By getting to know the main culprits behind fading, you can take proactive steps to keep your color looking rich and brilliant between salon visits.
The Porosity Problem in Color-Treated Hair
Think of your hair's cuticle like shingles on a roof. On healthy, uncolored hair, these shingles lie flat and smooth, locking in moisture. The coloring process, however, lifts these shingles to deposit color, which can leave them permanently raised. This creates what's known as high porosity. According to hair care experts at Matrix, "Color-treated hair can become more porous, meaning it loses moisture and color easily when wet." Every time you wash your hair, water gets under those raised cuticles and rinses away a little bit of color. This is also why some shades, like red, tend to fade faster; their larger color molecules have a harder time penetrating the hair shaft deeply, making them easier to wash out.
Common Causes of Premature Fading
Beyond the shower, several environmental factors are working against your hair color. The sun's UV rays act like a natural bleach, breaking down the chemical bonds in your hair dye and causing your color to lighten and lose its vibrancy. Similarly, summer activities can be particularly harsh. As noted by the Florida Academy, "sun exposure, swimming in chlorine or saltwater, and using too much heat can make color-treated hair fade and become dry or damaged." Protecting your hair is key. Using products with UV protectants, like a good leave-in conditioner, can create a barrier against these elements and help preserve the integrity of your color.
Washing and Conditioning Habits for Lasting Color
How you wash your hair has the single biggest impact on the longevity of your color. While keeping your hair clean is important, over-washing is the fastest way to strip that gorgeous shade. It’s all about finding a healthy balance and using the right techniques to cleanse your hair without compromising your color. This involves rethinking everything from how soon you wash your hair after your appointment to the temperature of the water you use. Adopting a few simple habits can make a world of difference, helping you extend the life of your color and maintain your hair's health. A gentle routine ensures your hair stays clean while the color molecules stay locked in place where they belong.
The First Wash: Timing is Everything
Patience is a virtue, especially after a color appointment. The hair cuticle needs time to fully close and trap the new color molecules inside. That's why it's crucial to wait before that first wash. Most stylists and color experts agree you should "wait at least 48 hours (2 days) before shampooing, or even 3-4 days if you can." This waiting period gives the color time to set properly. When you do finally wash, make sure you're using a shampoo specifically designed for color-treated hair. A gentle, sulfate-free formula like Keratherapy's Color Protect Shampoo will cleanse without stripping your hair of its new hue or its natural oils.
Adjusting Your Wash Schedule
Daily washing is a major cause of premature color fade. To keep your color looking its best, try to "shampoo your hair only 2-3 times a week, or every other day at most." This simple change reduces how often your hair is exposed to water and cleansing agents that can pull out the color. On the days in between, a quality dry shampoo can be your secret weapon for absorbing oil and keeping your hair feeling fresh. This less-frequent washing schedule not only preserves your color but also helps maintain the natural oils that keep your hair moisturized and healthy, preventing the dryness that often comes with color treatments.
Choosing the Right Water Temperature
The temperature of your shower water can make a surprising difference. Hot water opens up the hair's cuticle, which is great for allowing conditioner to penetrate but not so great for keeping color in. When the cuticle is open, color molecules can easily slip out. Instead, "use lukewarm or cool water. Hot water opens up the hair and makes color fade faster." A final rinse with cool water can help seal the cuticle shut, which locks in both moisture from your conditioner and your beautiful color. Following up with a nourishing color-safe conditioner will further smooth the cuticle, adding shine and an extra layer of protection.
First Step: The Color Protect Shampoo
Packaging: This is a standard cylinder tube of Shampoo, on par for luxury shampoos.
Consistency: This is a liquid shampoo that is neither too thin nor too thick. Lathers well throughout hair and is easy to spread.
Scent: I swear it smells like cantaloupe, however it's not labelled with a scent.
Repurchase: Totally, this cleansed my hair well and I like that it has keratin, that it is sulfate and gluten free.
INFORMATION NOT MY OWN OPINION OR WORDS (EITHER FROM WEBSITE, BOX, ETC):
Benefits: Gluten Free, Sulfate Free and Sodium Chloride Free.Created to extend the life of color-treated and highlighted hair.Gently removes residue buildup that causes hair to become dull and lifeless.Protects hair color from harmful UV rays and other environmental damage.
Ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Polyquaternium-7, Keratin Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Parfum, Cocamide MIPA, Glycerin, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Decyl Glucoside, Guar Hydroxypropltrimonium Chloride, Cinnamidopropyltrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-10, DMDM Hydantoin, CI 15985, CI 19140, Sodium Hydoxide, Allergens: Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene.
Directions: Massage throughout hair from root to tip into a rich lather. Rinse well, and repeat if necessary. For best results, follow with Keratherapy Color Protect Conditioner.
Locking in Color with the Keratin Conditioner
Packaging: This is a standard cylinder tube of Conditioner, on par for luxury conditioner.Consistency: This is a thicker conditioner, I could form stiff peaks with it. Scent: I swear it smells like cantaloupe, however, it's not labeled with a scent. This isn't as strong as the shampoo and didn't really linger after I washed it off.
Repurchase: Again, I totally would and use the system together. Or even just use this as a co-wash.
Benefits:Created to extend the life of color-treated and highlighted hair.Gently moisturizes and conditions while improving elasticity.Strengthens, tames and defrizzes.
Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Ispropyl Palmitate, Cetyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Behentrimonium Chloride, Methyl Glceth-20, Keratin Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Parfum, Dimethiconol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Hydolyzed Collagen, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil, Cinnamidopropyltimonium Chloride, Citric Acide, DMDM Hydantoin,m CI 15985, CI 19140, Methylisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Allergens: linalool, Citronellol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene.
Directions: Work through mid-lengths to ends of hair, focusing on those areas that need more conditioning. Leave in hair 3-4 minutes then rinse. For best results, use after Keratherapy Color Protect Shampoo.
How to Style and Treat Color-Treated Hair
After washing and conditioning, the next step is styling. Keeping your color looking fresh from the salon doesn't mean you have to abandon your favorite styles. It simply requires a more mindful approach to how you treat your hair, especially when it comes to heat. The right techniques and products will not only preserve your color but also maintain the health and strength of your hair. By making a few small adjustments to your routine, you can continue to use your go-to styling tools without worrying about your color fading prematurely. It’s all about creating a protective foundation that allows you to style with confidence.
Reducing Heat Damage
We all have a complicated relationship with our heat tools. They create those perfectly sleek looks or bouncy curls, but they can also be a primary cause of color fade and damage. The secret isn't to get rid of your tools, but to use them intelligently. Whenever you can, give your hair a break by embracing heat-free styles. But when you do need to use a blow dryer or flat iron, always start by applying a heat protectant. This step is non-negotiable for color-treated hair, as it forms a shield that minimizes damage and helps protect your strands from high temperatures.
Before you begin styling, ensure your hair is completely dry. Using a hot tool on even slightly damp hair can cause irreversible damage. Once you’ve applied a protectant, select the lowest effective temperature setting on your tool. You can often achieve the same great results without cranking the heat up to the maximum. For a smooth, frizz-free finish that also guards against heat, I love using the Perfect Blowout spray. It helps the brush glide through the hair, cutting down on drying time and reducing the hair’s overall exposure to heat while infusing it with strengthening keratin.
To further support your hair, a good leave-in conditioner can add another layer of moisture and defense. Our Keratin Infused Leave-In Conditioner Spray is a fantastic lightweight option that detangles, hydrates, and helps shield your hair from environmental factors that can make color appear dull. When you’re using an iron, try to work in clean, manageable sections and aim to perfect the style in a single, smooth pass. This simple technique significantly reduces the amount of time your hair is under direct heat, which is key to preserving both your color and your hair’s health.
Styling with the Perfect Blowout Spray
Packaging: This is a standard cylinder tube of Blowout Spray, on par for a luxury spray bottle.Consistency: This is a two part spray, which means it separates and will need to be shaken before use. Consistency is an oil liquid combination but did not linger on my hair, my hair absorbed it pretty well, which it usually does with these type of sprays.Scent: Light floral scent. When on my hair combined with everything, my hair smelled really clean without being overwhelmingly fragranced.
Repurchase: Yes, I love blowout sprays, they help defrizz my hair a lot and assist in the conditioning of my hair.
Benefits:Weightless styling spray that dramatically reduces blow dry time and eliminates frizz.Seals the cuticle and creates an invisible barrier against humidity.Provides better manageability, shine and smoothness.Protects hair color from harmful UV rays and other environmental damage.
Ingredients: Aqua, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isohexadecane, Hexylene Glycol, Parfum, Olea Europeaea Fruit Oil, Butyrosepermum Parkii Butter, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Persea Gratissima Oil, Poloxamer 184, Ehtlyhexylglycerin, DMDM Hydantoin, CI 15510, Allergens: Hexyl Cinnamal.
Directions: Shake well to activate before each use. Hold 6-8 inches from clean, damp hair and spray all over. Style as desired.
The Role of Weekly Deep Conditioning
While your daily shampoo and conditioner are the foundation of your routine, think of a weekly deep conditioning treatment as your hair's essential insurance policy. The chemical processes involved in coloring can leave your hair feeling dry and porous, which makes it easier for your new shade to fade. A quality deep conditioner goes beyond the surface to deliver intense moisture and repair from within. By using a treatment once a week, you help seal the hair's cuticle, which not only locks in color molecules but also restores elasticity and shine. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in preventing breakage and keeping your color vibrant. For an extra dose of repair, look for hair masques infused with keratin to help rebuild the hair's structure and maintain its strength.
Why a Square Brush Makes a Difference
I loved this thermal brush. First of all I thought it was weird it was square but you can create extra volume area the roots of your hair by positioning it correctly. The black lines disappear when the brush is hot, which I thought was pretty cool. There is a pick that comes out at the end of the brush in order to pick hair out... I think. The pick will be great for creating a part as well, I just didn't use it for that. The brush I received was 1.75" which was perfect for my length of hair. The quality is really good and the handle has ridges so your hands don't get overly sweaty.Repurchase: I won't need to because these brushes last forever. But if I needed a larger or smaller size, I would buy the other sizes.
INFORMATION NOT MY OWN OPINION OR WORDS (EITHER FROM WEBSITE, BOX, ETC):
Specifications: Create smooth, straight looks and full voluminous waves.Nano technology helps add shine.Ceramic and ion charged technology produces negative ions to smooth the cuticle.Heat indicating bands.Square shape for easier smoothing.Non-slip rubber grip.Pick end for easy sectioning.
Originally published by V. Michel Buck: https://divineandsexy.blogspot.com/2019/07/keratherapy-color-protect-system-review.html
Protecting Your Hair from the Elements
Keeping your hair color vibrant goes beyond your wash routine. Everyday life exposes our hair to environmental factors that can strip color and moisture, leaving it looking dull and feeling brittle. The sun’s UV rays, for instance, can act like a bleach, breaking down the pigments in your hair and weakening its protein structure. Similarly, a day at the beach or pool can be refreshing for you but stressful for your hair. Saltwater and chlorine are incredibly drying, lifting the hair's cuticle and allowing color molecules to escape easily. It’s a constant battle where you’re trying to seal in the good stuff—color, moisture, and keratin—while the environment is trying to pull it all out.
That’s why creating a protective barrier is just as important as your cleansing and conditioning steps. Think of it as a shield that preserves your investment in your hair color. Using the right products and adopting a few simple habits can make a huge difference in preserving your color and maintaining the overall health of your hair. A little bit of prevention goes a long way in keeping your strands looking salon-fresh, even when you’re enjoying the great outdoors. By taking these extra steps, you ensure your hair remains as vibrant and healthy as possible between appointments.
Sun, Chlorine, and Saltwater Care
A little preparation before you head out can save your hair a lot of stress. Before taking a dip in the pool or ocean, drench your hair with clean tap water and apply a leave-in conditioner. This helps fill the hair shaft, so it absorbs less of the damaging chlorine and salt. After your swim, rinse your hair as soon as possible to wash away any lingering chemicals or salt residue. Follow up with a hydrating, color-safe conditioner to replenish lost moisture. For daily sun protection, look for styling products that offer a shield against UV rays. Our Color Protect Perfect Blowout spray not only reduces drying time but also contains ingredients to guard your hair against environmental damage, keeping your color true and your strands healthy.
General Hair Health and Maintenance
While the right products are essential for maintaining your hair color, true hair health is a combination of external care and internal wellness. What you do every day—from how you style your hair to what you eat—creates the foundation for strong, resilient strands. When your hair is healthy from the inside out, it’s better equipped to handle chemical processes like coloring. A strong, well-nourished hair cuticle will hold onto color pigments more effectively and for a longer period. It also means your hair will be less prone to the frizz and breakage that can make even the most beautiful color look lackluster.
Integrating a few key practices into your routine can support your hair’s structure, improve its texture, and ensure your color stays vibrant between salon visits. It’s about creating a holistic approach to hair care that addresses its needs from every angle. By focusing on both the products you use and the lifestyle habits you maintain, you give your hair the comprehensive support it needs to thrive. This approach not only protects your color but also contributes to the long-term strength and beauty of your hair, making every day a good hair day.
Why Regular Trims Matter
It might seem counterintuitive if you're trying to grow your hair, but getting regular trims is one of the most effective ways to keep it healthy and looking its best. Split ends are notorious for making hair appear frizzy and damaged, and unfortunately, there’s no way to repair them once they occur. If left untrimmed, that split can travel up the hair shaft, causing even more breakage. This is especially crucial for color-treated hair, as damaged ends don’t hold pigment well and can fade faster than the rest of your hair. Scheduling a trim every six to eight weeks with a professional stylist will remove the damaged ends, prevent further splitting, and keep your hair looking thick and vibrant from root to tip. You can find a trusted professional in your area by using our salon locator.
Supporting Hair Health Through Diet
Beautiful hair truly starts from within. Your hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin, and your diet plays a direct role in producing it. To support strong hair growth, make sure you’re eating enough protein- and iron-rich foods like lean meat, fish, eggs, and spinach. These nutrients are the essential building blocks for healthy hair. Snacking on fruits, nuts, and vegetables also provides the vitamins and minerals necessary for scalp health and strand strength. When your body is well-nourished, it can produce stronger, more resilient hair that is less susceptible to damage from coloring and styling. You can learn more about the importance of keratin and how to combat keratin deficiency on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Keratherapy's keratin-infused products even if I haven't had a professional keratin treatment? Absolutely. Our home care products are designed to replenish the keratin your hair naturally loses from things like coloring and heat styling. Think of them as daily support to strengthen your hair and seal the cuticle, which helps lock in color, regardless of whether you've had a salon smoothing treatment.
How often should I use a deep conditioning treatment on my color-treated hair? For most color-treated hair, using a deep conditioner or a hair masque once a week is a great routine. This practice restores moisture and helps repair the hair's structure. If your hair feels particularly dry or damaged after a recent color service, you can use a treatment twice a week for the first couple of weeks to give it some extra support.
Are sulfate-free shampoos actually better for preserving hair color? Yes, they make a significant difference. Sulfates are strong cleansing agents that can strip away not only dirt and oil but also your hair's natural moisture and those precious color molecules. A sulfate-free formula cleanses your hair gently, helping to keep your cuticle smooth and your color locked in for longer.
My hair is very fine. Will these keratin products make it feel heavy or greasy? This is a common concern, but our formulas are designed to be effective without weighing hair down. Products like the Keratin Infused Leave-In Conditioner Spray are very lightweight and absorb quickly. They provide hydration and strength without leaving behind a heavy residue, so your hair retains its natural volume and movement.
Besides washing less, what's the single most important habit to protect my color from fading? After adjusting your wash routine, the next most critical habit is consistently using a heat protectant. High temperatures from blow dryers and styling irons can quickly damage the hair cuticle and cause your color to fade. Applying a product like the Perfect Blowout spray before styling creates a necessary barrier that shields your hair from damage and helps preserve its vibrancy.
Key Takeaways
- Wash Smarter, Not Harder: Preserve your color by waiting at least 48 hours after your appointment to wash, limiting shampoos to a few times a week, and using lukewarm water to keep the hair cuticle sealed.
- Prioritize Protection and Repair: Since coloring weakens hair, use keratin-infused products to rebuild its internal structure. Always apply a heat protectant before styling to create a shield against damage that causes fading.
- Defend Against Environmental Stress: The sun, chlorine, and saltwater all contribute to color fade. Use products with UV filters for daily protection and wet your hair with clean water before swimming to minimize damage.
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