We spend a lot of time and money on our hair color, so we want it to last. I know from personal experience as an enhanced redhead that faded hair just doesn’t look as cute. That’s why I asked a few hair colorists for some reasons why hair color doesn’t last and some tips to keep it vibrant longer.

#1 YOUR HAIR IS DIRTY WHEN YOU COLOR IT

In a recent live video on the Mixed Makeup Facebook page, Joico educator Brandon Corbitt said one of his biggest tips to make your color last is to start with clean hair when you dye it. Hair color can penetrate better when there isn’t a layer of dirt, sweat, and other hair products in the way. When the color can penetrate better, it’ll come out better and will last longer.

#2 YOU WASH IT TOO SOON

“I always recommend my clients wait two days after they get color for their first shampoo,” says Los Angeles hair stylist and owner of Le Salon Angela Kalinowski. You need to give the color time to set in your hair before you wash it out. But honestly, why you would wash your hair soon after getting it done is beyond me, but it happens often enough for hair colorists to give this tip.

#3 YOUR WATER TEMPERATURE IS TOO HIGH

Avoid washing your hair with hot water! “Heat opens up the hair cuticle which then releases the color bonds,” says Kalinowski. “Taking cooler showers will ultimately keep the color from fading and hair will also look shiny and healthy. It’s great for the skin too!”

#4 YOU USE THE WRONG HAIR CARE PRODUCTS

A lot of hair colorists suggest investing in salon quality hair care products and the big reason is they’re formulated to help your color last longer. Look for products that are sulfate and paraben-free and avoid shampoos with a high alcohol content. All of these ingredients will strip the color from your hair faster.

While salon quality products tend to be on the pricey side, your hair color will last longer and you won’t need to make as many trips to your hair colorist. A great go-to product to preserve your hair color is Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner.

Do you have any tips to add? Tell me in the comments below! You can also watch how I got my custom red hair color with Brandon Corbitt in this video.