Most of us colour our hair, from streaking it red or getting golden, brown locks like Kareena’s to make a hair statement, or even to cover the greys. And then there are the usual complains of dry and brittle hair. Hair expert Jawed Habib says, “All hair colours whether local or foreign contain ammonia. Ammonia opens the hair cuticles to allow colour molecules to penetrate into the cortex (inner layer of hair). The absence of ammonia results in the colour coming off in the first shampoo wash. In return, ammonia absorbs all the moisture from the hair and makes it dry.” You must know how to make your hair colour work for you.

Jawed Habib’s hair colouring tips:

Before

• Wash your hair before colouring. If you are short on time, get a wash at the salon. Colour will not get applied properly or stay for long on a greasy scalp.
• Colouring makes the hair ends weak. When you step in the sun, the heat causes split ends. A regular trim is a must before colouring because ends soak most of the colour.
• If you are planning to go for a perm or if you want to straighten your hair, do it 2-3 weeks before colouring. You cannot club the two. The overdose of chemicals will spell disaster for your hair.
• Do not apply colour if you have henna on your hair. Henna acts as a barrier between hair and colour. Wait for at least 6 months for the henna to wear off.
• If you are using a new brand at home, do a patch test on the inside of your elbow. Keep the colour for 15-20 minutes and wash. If there’s any reaction, change the brand. Always use a reputable brand.
• If you have any scratches on the scalp, do not colour. The chemicals might aggravate the problem. In case of sensitive scalp, inform the stylist so he / she can organise a less harsh colour for you.

After

This is where most of us falter. Hair care post-colouring is of utmost importance.

• Use colour-protective shampoo; it will ensure colour longevity. Harsh shampoos like anti-dandruff are not meant for coloured hair.
• A good conditioner is a must to restore moisture in your hair. It will nourish the hair and return its shine and lustre. A leave-in conditioner will protect your hair from the sun and keep it manageable.
• You can alternatively use replenishing balm or hair serum if you have extremely dry or damaged hair.
• Avoid blow-drying after washing. It will increase dryness of the hair.
• Get a hair spa treatment once a week. It will prevent colour from fading.
• Grandma’s recipe of oiling the hair every week is akin to moisturising dry skin. It is essential to keep the hair healthy and prevent hair-fall.
• Be extra careful when you step in the pool for a swim. Chlorine damages coloured hair, condition your hair and wear a cap.
• Make sure the colour does not touch your scalp when you cover the greys. Trust your hairdresser with application; you might overdo the chemicals at home.

How often should you colour your hair?

“There can be nothing more damaging than colouring the hair more often than required,” says Habib. He lists out his hair colouring timetable:

• Highlights / streaks: 3-6 months
• Global hair colour: 3-6 months
• Roots touch up for grey coverage: once a month
• Men should colour their hair every 6-8 weeks with alternate cut