Hair-Do's and Don'ts

Today I did one of my favorite things. Got my hair dyed. For those who know me this isn't a surprise. I often dye my hair usually changing it from blonde, to brown, to dark brown, red brown etc...You name it I've dyed it (well almost). The only problem with keeping my hair color fresh and new is the cost. Professionally dying your hair can cost $75 and upwards depending on your hair length, highlights or full dye and of course the salon. However, over the years I have come up with a few key rules to follow and some special tricks to help keep my color vibrant and cut down on cost. Here are my Hair Do's and Don'ts.

DON'T: Dye your hair from a box. Now I know that many people live by their box dyes but in my experience, talking with professional stylists, box dyes are bad for your hair. The color in the dye has no benefits to your hair and most contain ammonia. These straight chemicals can easily damage your hair which in turn cause your color to fade quicker. Although boxes are a lot cheaper you are damaging your hair and having to dye your hair more spending almost the same amount of money in the long run.

DON'T: let the sun and UV rays damage your hair. Now you may be thinking how is that possible? Don't worry I'm not suggesting you bust out your umbrella like Michael Jackson, but there are ways to help. Which brings me to my DO.

DO: Wear protective headwear when in the sun/UV rays. I'm really talking to my tanning fans out there. Now I know a lot of us hit the tanning beds every once in a while although they may not be the best for us. Well the UV rays from the bed can strip the color from your hair. My suggestion: wear a solid color shower cap in the tanning bed. This may sound silly but it really helps with protecting your hair color and also helps keep your hair up in the bed.

DO: Get a Malibu treatment. I recently learned of this procedure when I had my highlights for summer and was completely satisfied with the results. A Malibu treatment is an easy treatment that can be done at salons to help remove color build up and toxins in your hair. The process is simple. You go to the salon and get a shampoo treatment then sit under a dryer 40 min. The treatment is usually around $20 and when you're finished your hair is healthier and your color is more vibrant. This treatment not only enhances your color but also allows your hair to hold color longer saving you money.

DO: Buy color protection shampoo. This may seem like a no brainer but many people don't realize how beneficial these products are. By buying color treatment shampoo you can elongate the life of your color which allows you to spend less. These products don't have to be top of the line either. Drugstore shampoos such as John Frieda Brilliant Brunette and Sheer Blonde will do the trick.

So there are my Do's and Don'ts for hair care. Follow these tips and tricks and you'll be spending less time and money at the salon and still have beautiful hair.

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