Blue dyed hair has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for this bold and vibrant color. However, one of the biggest concerns for those considering blue hair is how it will fade over time. In this article, we’ll explore what happens to blue dyed hair as it fades, and provide some tips on how to maintain the color and prevent unwanted tones.
Understanding the Fading Process
When you dye your hair blue, the color penetrates the hair shaft and settles into the cortex. However, over time, the color molecules begin to break down and escape from the hair shaft, causing the color to fade. This process can be influenced by a number of factors, including:
- Shampooing and conditioning: Washing your hair regularly can cause the color to fade faster, as the shampoo and conditioner strip the hair of its color.
- Exposure to sunlight: UV rays can cause the color molecules to break down, leading to fading.
- Use of heat styling tools: Heat styling tools can damage the hair and cause the color to fade faster.
- Porosity of the hair: Hair with low porosity can be more prone to fading, as the color molecules have a harder time penetrating the hair shaft.
What Does Blue Dyed Hair Fade to?
So, what can you expect when your blue dyed hair starts to fade? The answer depends on a number of factors, including the original shade of blue, the condition of your hair, and how well you maintain the color.
- Pastel blue: If you started with a pastel blue color, you can expect it to fade to a lighter, more silvery blue.
- Cobalt blue: Cobalt blue hair tends to fade to a more purple or pinkish tone, as the blue molecules break down and reveal the underlying pigment.
- Navy blue: Navy blue hair can fade to a darker, more muted blue, or even a blackish tone.
Unwanted Tones: How to Prevent Them
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to fading blue hair is the appearance of unwanted tones. These can include:
- Greenish tones: These can appear when the blue color starts to break down and reveal the underlying pigment.
- Purplish tones: These can appear when the blue color fades to a more pinkish or purplish tone.
To prevent unwanted tones, it’s essential to use a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner, and to touch up your roots regularly. You can also use a color-correcting spray or gloss to help maintain the color and prevent fading.
Maintaining Blue Dyed Hair
Maintaining blue dyed hair requires regular upkeep and attention. Here are some tips to help you keep your blue hair looking its best:
- Use a color-depositing shampoo and conditioner: These products can help maintain the color and prevent fading.
- Touch up your roots regularly: This can help prevent unwanted tones and keep the color looking vibrant.
- Use a color-correcting spray or gloss: These products can help maintain the color and prevent fading.
- Avoid using heat styling tools: Heat styling tools can damage the hair and cause the color to fade faster.
- Protect your hair from the sun: UV rays can cause the color molecules to break down, leading to fading.
Color-Depositing Products: What to Look For
When it comes to color-depositing products, there are a few things to look for. These include:
- Color-depositing ingredients: Look for ingredients such as colorants, dyes, and pigments.
- Moisturizing ingredients: Look for ingredients such as moisturizers, humectants, and emollients.
- Protective ingredients: Look for ingredients such as antioxidants, plant extracts, and vitamins.
Some popular color-depositing products include:
- Pravana ChromaSilk: This product is designed to deposit color and moisture into the hair.
- Redken Color Extend: This product is designed to deposit color and help maintain the color.
- Joico Vero K-Pak: This product is designed to deposit color and help maintain the color.
Conclusion
Blue dyed hair can be a bold and vibrant color, but it requires regular upkeep and attention to maintain. By understanding the fading process and using color-depositing products, you can help keep your blue hair looking its best. Remember to touch up your roots regularly, avoid using heat styling tools, and protect your hair from the sun to prevent fading and unwanted tones. With the right care and attention, your blue dyed hair can look vibrant and healthy for months to come.
What is the typical lifespan of blue dyed hair?
The lifespan of blue dyed hair can vary depending on several factors, including the type of dye used, hair porosity, and maintenance routine. On average, blue hair dye can last anywhere from 4 to 12 washes, with the color fading gradually over time. However, some high-quality dyes can last longer, while others may fade faster.
To extend the lifespan of your blue hair dye, it’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and to avoid using hot water when washing your hair. You can also use a color-depositing treatment once a week to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair.
What are the stages of blue hair dye fading?
The stages of blue hair dye fading can vary depending on the individual, but generally, the color will fade from a vibrant blue to a pastel blue, and eventually to a pale blue or purple tone. The first stage of fading usually occurs within the first few washes, where the color becomes less vibrant and more muted. As the color continues to fade, it may develop a greenish or purplish tint, especially if the dye was not applied correctly.
The final stage of fading usually occurs after several weeks, where the color has almost completely washed out, leaving behind a pale blue or purple tone. However, some people may experience a more rapid fading process, while others may be able to maintain the color for longer.
How can I maintain the color of my blue hair dye?
To maintain the color of your blue hair dye, it’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and to avoid using hot water when washing your hair. You can also use a color-depositing treatment once a week to help maintain the color and vibrancy of your hair. Additionally, using a color-protecting spray or serum can help to lock in the color and prevent fading.
It’s also important to avoid using heat styling tools, as they can cause the color to fade faster. If you must use heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray to help prevent damage and fading. Regular trims can also help to maintain the health and color of your hair.
Can I dye my hair blue again if it fades?
Yes, you can dye your hair blue again if it fades, but it’s essential to consider the condition of your hair before doing so. If your hair is damaged or over-processed, it may not be able to withstand another dye job. It’s recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks before re-dyeing your hair, and to use a conditioning treatment to help repair any damage.
Before re-dyeing your hair, it’s also essential to remove any remaining color from the previous dye job. You can use a color-removing treatment or a clarifying shampoo to help remove any remaining color. It’s also recommended to do a strand test before re-dyeing your entire head to ensure the desired results.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when dyeing blue hair?
One of the most common mistakes to avoid when dyeing blue hair is using the wrong type of dye. It’s essential to use a high-quality, semi-permanent or demi-permanent dye specifically formulated for blue hair. Using a permanent dye can cause damage and over-processing, while using a temporary dye may not provide the desired results.
Another common mistake is not following the instructions carefully. It’s essential to follow the instructions provided with the dye, and to do a strand test before applying the dye to your entire head. Not doing a strand test can result in uneven color, and not following the instructions can result in over-processing or damage.
How can I remove blue hair dye if I want to change my hair color?
Removing blue hair dye can be a challenging process, but it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging your hair. One way to remove blue hair dye is to use a color-removing treatment, which can be purchased at a beauty supply store or online. These treatments can help to break down the color and remove it from the hair shaft.
Another way to remove blue hair dye is to use a clarifying shampoo, which can help to remove any remaining color from the hair shaft. It’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and to avoid using hot water when washing your hair. You can also use a color-correcting treatment to help neutralize any remaining color and prepare your hair for a new color.