What is a Fashion Color?

Fashion hair is a term used to describe a trend in hair dye. This trend has circled back around from the 1990s but there are many more advancements in hair color formula. Now guests can choose between pastels, metallics, and bolder bright colors! Fashion colors are usually made from more dramatic shades of dark brown, burgundy, red, and plum. These color choices also come from fashion trends that celebrities have popularized on social media.
 
The downside to these fun colors is the high upkeep since they require touch-ups every few weeks due to fading or natural root growth. In addition, some people may find it difficult to maintain their desired color because of their skin tone or complexion. Nevertheless, fashion colors are great as long as you understand the maintenance required for keeping your color looking fresh and vibrant.

 

How Long Does Fashion Hair Color Take to Achieve?

From subtle highlights to bold balayage, there are endless possibilities when it comes to changing up your look. But what many people don't know is just how long it can take to achieve these results. Depending on the color and the technique used, appointments can often take several hours. Fashion colors do require time management and budgeting. Therefore, we encourage you to determine whether you have room in your schedule to sit in the salon chair for long periods of time and if your budget allows for the cost to achieve fashion colors.
 
Your hair needs to be pre-lightened (bleached) for fashion colors to be vibrant and not patchy. The lighter your desired color, the more your existing color must be lifted. It can take several sessions at the salon to get dark hair light enough to apply color. Once your hair has been lifted, the amount of time it takes fashion colors to process varies depending on your current hair color, length, thickness, and color history.
 


What if you want more than just a solid pastel, and are hoping for a modern balayage with a rooty look, perhaps blending a couple of colors together? More complex looks like these are going to take even longer. An appointment like that will be called a color correction appointment. Those are usually charged by the hour or booked out for the full day!
 

How Long Do Fashion Hair Colors Last?

Fashion hair color is a direct dye, which means it isn’t permanent and the color sits on the surface of your hair. For this reason it fades at a much faster rate than the permanent and demi-permanent dyes that you might be more familiar with. Fashion colors such as the ones made with reds and burgundy dye fade faster than other colors, making it necessary for you to get your hair dyed more often. Pastel fashion hair colors will generally last two to four weeks.
 

Another factor that affects how long a pastel fashion hair will last is your natural hair color. If your natural hair is dark brown or black, then most pastels will wash out quickly because there isn't enough pigment in those shades to counteract the yellow undertones of darker colors. That means it's important not only to find a good stylist but also use the right products at home between visits.
 
Vivid fashion hair colors lasting depends on several factors, including the type of dye used to create them, how often you shampoo your hair, and what products you use to style your hair. Typically, these vibrant hues will last about two months before they start to fade. It can be discouraging to some, but there are ways to make them last longer. Also, consider shampooing less frequently and apply products that help keep your tresses moisturized between washes.
 

Can Fashion Colors Damage Your Hair?

Fashion colors generally do not damage hair if you take proper care during the coloring process. If done correctly, fashion colors can actually improve your hair's health because they will get color-treated and sealed with a gloss. It is important to consider a professional colorist who can properly perform these steps to ensure that your hair remains healthy. Going to a professional who uses protein treatments (such as Olaplex) and top-notch application techniques can help you avoid any damage caused by dyes.
 
Also, be sure to use color-safe shampoo and conditioner during the process so the hair does not become brittle and the color doesn’t fade. The chemicals used in hair color can strip your natural hair color, leaving it dry, especially if you have black, brown, or otherwise dark hair before applying the fashion colors.
 

How Do You Maintain Fashion Colors?

If you want your hair to continue looking healthy, beautiful, and vibrant for longer, we recommend following the below tips:
 
Do proper research: Maintaining a fashion color is not only about the right products and techniques; it's also about doing your research. That means finding a good stylist who understands your hair type and can give you the color you want without damaging your locks. It also means learning about the best products to use and how to use them correctly. Only by doing your homework can you be sure that you're taking care of your hair while keeping it looking great.
 
Do not wash immediately: One of the best ways to maintain your fashion colors is holding off on washing. Experts recommend waiting at least 72 hours before washing your hair. It will help the color last longer and look more vibrant. Schedule 2-3 days between washes after the first 72 hours.
 
Use cold water to wash: If you're looking to maintain your vibrant hue, consider taking a cold shower to wash your hair. Cold water closes the cuticle, which will help your hair lock in moisture and maintain its softness and shine.If you prefer taking hot showers, the temperature change can be initially uncomfortable. One way to get around this is to lean your head back so the cold water is only hitting your head. Then, while you’re not washing your hair, feel free to turn up the temperature on your faucet.
 
Using the right hair products: To keep your hair looking its best, be sure to avoid harsh chemicals and use the right products One of the best ways to do that is by using a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair. That will help protect your hair from fading and keep it looking vibrant for longer. Your stylist will recommend the best shampoo and conditioner for your hair, but in general, it's best to look for the best quality products. You should also ensure the products you use are sulfate-free, as they strip moisture and color. Make your color last by using a color-depositing conditioner once a week. Along with keeping your hair soft and healthy, you will add a touch of pigment to keep your color fresh. Apply the desired color to clean, towel-dried hair (70% dry is best), and let it soak for 3-10 minutes. Once finished soaking, rinse with lukewarm water for best results.
 
Use minimum heat on your hair: Avoid using heat tools that are over 350 degrees F. Super hot tools can diminish the vibrancy of colored hair. However, this doesn’tmean you have to avoid using styling products altogether. Try using a thermal product before blow-drying or curling your hair so that you won't need high temperatures to style your hair after. And best of all, there are plenty of thermal products out there that serve a dual purpose by adding volume to your hair. If you are using hair irons with adjustable temperature settings, set them at the coolest possible setting before use.
 


Essence Salon in Mountain View, CA has been creating Happiness Through Hairstyling® since 2005. Our stylists create personalized hairstyles for men and women, and this includes fashion hair. Call or text us today to set up your consultation for your rainbow hair dream!