Whether you visit a professional colorist or bought a hair color kit from you local store, you need to know how to maximize your color results to keep if fresh and brilliant looking as long as possible. Although it is inevitable that colored hair will fade, there are several ways you can extend the life of hair color or highlights. 
1. Dying your hair is an important process and the way to maintain vibrant, long lasting color begins before dying. Deep condition your hair a few days before you intend to dye it. This will help it get in its best, moisturized condition and prevent post-dying hair breakage. The hair must be dyed on unwashed hair so the dye will take to hair better Wait 24-48 hours after your last shampoo before the color is applied.
2. Wait before you wash your hair after the color is applied and washed out by at least 48 hours before you resume your normal shampooing ritual.Note that regular shampoos and conditioners are often too harsh for your colored hair. That is why products specifically for hair that has been colored are in shops. These are developed to minimize fading color, extra conditioning additives added and will keep hair shiny, and minimize the damage that may be caused from the harsh chemicals of dyes.
3. Avoid shampooing colored or highlighted hair in hot water. Cold water does not allow the cuticle to rise so the scrubbing action of shampooing will not help the color molecules escape.Minimize the use of blow dryers to avoid heat damage to your new color.
4. Color-treated hair can be damaged from the sun. The ultraviolet rays will remove the color out of your hair and leave it dull and lifeless. Make sure if you are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time to wear a wide-brimmed hat or covering to your hair. Also look for products that contain sunscreens such as spray or leave in products.
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