Hair colouring in a sunny climate: keeping colour from fading

Choose a shade that fades gracefully

In strong sun, high-maintenance ash tones and vivid reds lose their character first. Warm beige, caramel and soft brunette shades, or techniques with a grown-out root like balayage and airtouch, keep looking intentional for far longer between visits.

Toning is not optional

For blondes, toning every four to six weeks is what keeps the colour clean. It is a short, inexpensive appointment compared with a full correction after months of yellowing.

Home care

• Sulphate-free shampoo and a colour-protecting conditioner.
• UV-protection spray or a hat for beach days.
• Rinse with fresh water immediately after sea or pool.
• A bonding or protein mask once a week for bleached hair.
• Heat protection every time you use a dryer or iron.

Treat your haircut as colour maintenance

Dry, split ends read as faded colour even when the pigment is fine. Trimming every eight to ten weeks does more for shine than any product.