The euphoria you get from finding the perfect hair color is right up there with finding the perfect man (maybe better). What could be better than seeing your hair glisten and shine perfectly in the sun? By the same token, there's nothing like the disappointment of watching that fabulous color suddenly fade and turn into a color not found in nature. Before you start tearing up due to this hair tragedy, let us shed some light on this common hair conundrum. We found five culprits to this hair-fading crime - and they might surprise you!



1. Not Properly Prepping Your Hair BEFORE Dying It
It's always best to start off with a clean slate, especially when it comes to your hair color. Use a clarifying shampoo the day before dying it to cleanse it of any toxins or chemicals that can keep the color from penetrating completely.

Product Recommendations: Redken Hair Cleansing Cream Shampoo, Garnier Pure Clean Shampoo

2. Not Using the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
While clarifying shampoo before a dye job is great, it is a big NO-GO after the fact. Get yourself a color-enhancing shampoo that will promote vibrant, long-lasting color. Also, dehydration is a common cause of fading color, so keeping your hair hydrated is a must. In addition to conditioning it regularly, apply a moisturizing hair mask once a week to prevent dry locks.

Product Recommendations: Pureology Purify Shampoo, L'Oréal Professionel Vitamino Color, Kérastase Paris Masque Chroma Riche

3. Not Applying Color Protecting Spray
Our good friend the sun is not such a good friend to our hair. UV rays can do a real number on your hair color, causing it to fade and lose its luster. Do your part to protect this fading fate by spritzing your hair with a color-protecting spray before you head out for the day. Think of it as a suit of armor for your hair!

Product Recommendations: Pureology Colour Fanatic, Kérastase Soleil Huile Céleste

4. Salt Water & Chlorine
All you beach - and pool-loving babes should heed this warning. Salt water and chlorine-infused water can break down the chemicals in your hair color and cause it to fade. When swimming, protect your hair with a swimming cap. You can also dip your hair in tap water before taking a dip in a pool or ocean. Your hair will absorb the tap water as opposed to the chlorine or salt water.

What hair color are you obsessed with this fall? Tell us in the comments below!

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