Going Red

Fiery red hair is something Hollywood has loved throughout the ages. Julia Roberts, Christina Hendricks, Nicole Kidman, Bette Midler and Diane Keaton have all been redheads, and dazzling and talented actors Lindsay Lohan, Debra Messing, Susan Sarandon and Kirsten Dunst are among those who make us covet the vibrant colour.

But from strawberry blonde to auburn, crimson to copper, there are so many ravishing reds available that it's difficult to know which is right for you. Equally, the maintenance of red hair can cause difficulties.  Even without the presence of chlorine or shampoo detergent, pure spring water can draw artificial colour from strands, and UV rays from the sun can damage the already-vulnerable protein structure of colour-treated tresses. Whereas donning a hat and washing hair less often may suffice in the colder phases of our changeable climate, warmer weather, and the accompanying boost in sunshine, outdoor activities, and pesky scalp oil, calls for an updated hair care routine.

Primarily, if you don’t shampoo, it’s still important to rinse hair with warm water and condition.   Though it won’t give you the squeaky-clean feeling that high-foaming detergents in shampoo provide, conditioner does contain emulsifying surfactants and will replenish dry, colour-treated strands. Try a nourishing conditioner from the Kérastase Chroma Riche line, which is great for preventing red from fading too fast. And, on the days that you do a wet shampoo, try to cleanse without working up too much of a lather- the less product you can get away with, the better.

Avoiding water altogether is the best colour-saving option on days you forgo a shampoo. Never underestimate the power of an oil-absorbing hair powder- even baby powder can also freshen strands and eliminate hair grease, and I know many a top stylist who swears by this cheap and cheerful solution.

To prolong your colour and make salon touch-ups less frequent, it’s important to invest in a colour-depositing shampoo- L’Oreal Chroma Care is my favourite. While the shampoos in the line not only contain UV filters and moisturising agents, they help to mend split-ends and are packed with pigment enhancers to help counteract fading.  Weekly use is enough with these powerful products, but the results will retain that vibrant colour and rich shine between salon visits.

Hair is composed almost entirely of keratin, a tough, fibrous protein. However, colouring hair can open up the cuticle, causing damage and environmental stressors like water and sun can further deplete hair’s natural protein structure. A post-colour treatment is an effective way to combat damage- a perfect way to bring hair back to its natural state and seal in colour.  Plus, it’ll provide the hair with a deeply glossy finish: perfect for that a-list appearance!

If you’re thinking of going red, be sure to pop into the salon for a full consultation.  It’s a colour which requires careful choice to match your skin colour, so contact our lovely reception team on 0191 511 0288 to find your ideal match.