Your Vivid Guide
So you took the leap into vivid hair. Welcome to the fun side!
Vivids are bold, expressive, and one of my favorite ways to create a look that feels completely unique to you. Whether you went for a bright rainbow, a rich jewel tone, a pastel dream, or something totally unexpected, vivid color is a form of self-expression.
The trade-off? Vivids are temporary fashion colors, which means they are meant to fade and evolve over time. With the right care at home, you can help your color stay vibrant, keep your hair healthy, and get the most out of your investment.
Before You Leave Your Appointment
Every vivid color is unique, and your maintenance routine may look a little different depending on your color, hair history, and lifestyle.
Before you leave your appointment, we’ll go over:
- How to care for your specific color
- What products will work best for your hair
- How to maintain your color at home
- Any questions you have about styling or maintenance
I want you to feel confident taking care of your new color long after you leave the salon!
Wash Less, Preserve More
One of the biggest ways to extend the life of your vivid color is by washing less frequently. I recommend washing your hair 1–2 times per week whenever possible.
When you do wash:
- Use cool or cold water to help preserve your color
- Apply shampoo only to your scalp and gently massage
- Let the shampoo rinse through your ends rather than scrubbing them
- Always follow with conditioner to keep your hair hydrated
Dry shampoo is your best friend between washes! It can help refresh your hair while giving your color extra longevity.
Choose the Right Products
Because vivids are applied over lightened hair, your hair needs products that focus on moisture, protection, and color preservation.
I recommend:
- Sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo and conditioner
- A gentle co-wash option if your hair prefers less cleansing
- A quality heat protectant anytime you use heat styling
- A good dry shampoo for between washes
One of my personal favorite shampoos is Verb Ghost because it is lightweight, hydrating, and color-friendly.
When choosing products, remember that the goal is to keep your hair healthy and your color protected. If you’re unsure what products are right for you, ask me! I’m happy to help.
Be Mindful With Heat
Heat is one of the quickest ways to fade vivid colors.
To protect your color:
- Turn your hot tools down to a lower temperature
- Always use heat protectant
- Avoid unnecessary heat exposure when possible
A little styling tip: cool air helps set your style after heat styling and can help your finished look last longer!
Things That Can Speed Up Fading
Some things naturally cause vivid colors to fade faster. Try to limit exposure to:
- Hot water
- Chlorine pools and hot tubs
- Ocean or lake water
- Mineral buildup and hard water
- Prolonged direct sunlight exposure
If you have hard water, a shower filter or a Malibu Hard Water treatment system may help protect your color and improve your hair’s overall feel.
Take Care of Your Lightened Hair
Remember: your vivid color is sitting on lightened hair, so your hair needs the same gentle care you would give to blonde or other chemically lightened hair.
Be sure to:
- Handle your hair gently
- Avoid rough brushing or aggressive detangling
- Keep your hair moisturized and nourished
- Use products that support your hair’s health
Healthy hair holds color better!
Sleeping With Fresh Vivids
Some vivid colors (especially highly pigmented shades like reds, blues, purples, and magentas) may transfer slightly after your appointment.
To help prevent this:
- Avoid sleeping with wet hair
- Use darker towels or pillowcases after a fresh color
- Be mindful of light-colored clothing right after your appointment
A little color transfer is normal and does not mean your color is failing!
Fading Is Part of the Process
Vivid colors are fashion colors, which means they are meant to fade and evolve over time. Fading does not mean your color failed, it is simply part of the vivid color experience.
Some shades naturally hold longer than others:
- Deeper jewel tones often have more staying power
- Pastel shades usually fade faster
- Reds, pinks, and purples may leave behind residual tones
- Blues and greens may shift as they fade depending on your hair and products
Everyone’s hair is different, so your color longevity will depend on your shade, your hair, and your at-home routine.
With proper care, vivids can last up to 10+ washes, but maintenance varies from person to person.
Have Questions? I’m Here to Help!
Not sure what products to use? Wondering why your color is fading a certain way? Need help creating an at-home routine?
Reach out anytime! I’m always happy to help you care for your vivid color and keep your hair looking and feeling its best between appointments.
Your vivid color is a collaboration between us. I create the look, and your care at home helps keep it thriving.