Nothing beats the excitement of leaving the salon with vibrant, freshly coloured hair. To protect your salon investment and keep your hair looking as fabulous as that first day, proper care is essential. In this blog, we discuss practical tips to help you maintain the brilliance of your new colour, including gentle washing routines, sustainable product choices, and the important of hydration and heat protection.
The First 48 Hours
The first 48 hours after your salon visit are crucial for preserving the vibrancy and longevity of your freshly coloured hair. This is the ‘setting period’, when the cuticle – your hair’s outer layer – is still open and gradually sealing in the colour pigment.
Try to resist the urge to wash your hair during this time, as shampooing your hair too soon can strip away the colour and lead to premature fading. Aim to wait at least two full days so the colour can set! In addition, avoiding tight ponytails, buns, or braids will help to reduce tension on the hair shaft, which is still vulnerable during this time.

Building a Washing Routine
Your washing routine will look different depending on your hair type (don’t worry – your Kalon Hair Studio stylist can help you build a routine that works for you), but there are some additional considerations when it comes to maintaining coloured hair.
- Product choice: Choosing sustainable products can make a big difference in maintaining the longevity and health of your coloured hair.
- Washing: Over-washing not only fades colour but wastes water and product. Try and limit shampooing to 2-3 times a week to minimise fading and environmental impact!
- Drying: Be sure to handle your hair gently, patting dry instead of rubbing with a towel to avoid unnecessary strain on the cuticle. Microfibre and bamboo towels are also a great, sustainable option that can reduce friction on your hair.
Touch-Ups and Maintenance
Maintaining salon-fresh colour requires regular attention to keep it vibrant and healthy. Scheduling touch-ups every 4–6 weeks helps address regrowth and refreshes faded tones, especially for bold or high-maintenance shades. To boost vibrancy between salon visits, consider using at-home colour masks or gloss treatments that are safe for colour-treated hair.
Avoid over-processing your hair, as frequent colouring without breaks can lead to damage and dullness. Regular trims are essential to remove split ends and maintain a polished, healthy appearance. Your Kalon Hair Studio colour expert will be able to advise you on the ideal maintenance schedule for your needs.
The Importance of Hydration and Heat Protection
Coloured hair is more prone to dryness, so hydration is a priority. Use a weekly deep conditioning treatment designed for colour-treated hair to restore moisture and maintain softness. Leave-in conditioners or serums are excellent for keeping hair hydrated while adding a protective barrier against damage.

Heat styling should be minimised, but when necessary, always apply a heat protectant to shield your hair. Environmental factors like UV rays, chlorine, and saltwater can also strip colour. Use UV-protective sprays, wear a hat in strong sunlight, and rinse your hair immediately after swimming. These measures help preserve vibrancy and prevent unnecessary damage.
If you’re looking to take that first step into gorgeous, coloured hair, step into Kalon Hair Studio and let our talented stylists bring your hair dreams to life. Whether you’re in Canton, Pontcanna, Llandaff, or anywhere else in the area, our salon is conveniently located in Cardiff for anyone seeking personalised service and incredible results.
View our price guide here and schedule a colour consultation with a stylist today! We look forward to seeing you, whether you need a touch-up or a full colour transformation.