How to Prevent Hair Fall After Colouring?

Last updated on January 18th, 2025 at 05:16 pm

Hair colouring is an exciting way to refresh your look, but it often comes with unwanted side effects like increased hair fall. If you’re noticing more shedding than usual after colouring, don’t panic—there are plenty of ways to tackle it and keep your hair healthy and vibrant. 

With some extra care and the right products, you can minimise hair damage, maintain colour integrity, and achieve strong, shiny hair. In this blog, explore 8 expert suggestions to keep your hair healthy and minimise hair fall after colouring.

Why Does Hair Fall Occur After Colouring?

When you colour your hair, the chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide open the hair’s outer layer. This helps the colour go in but can also damage your hair if not cared for properly. While this process is essential for changing your hair colour, it also strips the hair of natural moisture and proteins, leaving it more fragile. As a result, hair becomes more susceptible to breakage and shedding. Repeatedly dyeing your hair, along with combing and styling, can make your hair weaker.

The Main Culprits of Colouring Damage:

• Ammonia: This harsh chemical opens the cuticle but leaves hair dry and brittle.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Commonly used to lighten hair, it weakens the keratin, making strands prone to breakage.
• PPD (Paraphenylenediamine): A common allergen in hair dyes, it can cause irritation and make hair more vulnerable to damage.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): Found in many shampoos, this detergent strips hair of its natural oils, worsening damage to coloured hair.

What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Hair Fall After Colouring?

Choose Ammonia-Free and Peroxide-Free Dyes

Opting for gentler dyes that are free from ammonia and peroxide can help minimise damage to your hair. These dyes are designed to keep your hair hydrated, strong, and vibrant without stripping moisture.

Quick Tip: Semi-permanent and natural dyes are typically less harsh and gentler on both the scalp and hair.

Nourish Your Hair From the Inside Out

Hair health begins from within, so nourishing your hair with the right nutrients is just as essential as using quality products. Ensure your diet includes hair-healthy nutrients to support keratin production and follicle strength.

• Biotin: Found in eggs and nuts, biotin supports the health and strength of your hair.
• Zinc: This mineral strengthens hair follicles and is present in shellfish and seeds.
• Iron: Vital for hair thickness, iron is found in spinach and lean meats.

Switch to Colour-Protecting Shampoos and Conditioners

After colouring, using shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for coloured hair helps preserve the vibrancy and moisture of your locks. These products not only protect the colour but also keep the hair healthy.

Pro Tip: Always choose sulphate-free formulas to prevent the stripping of natural oils that are essential for maintaining hair strength.

Limit Heat Styling

Excessive heat styling, such as blow-drying, curling, and straightening, can cause coloured hair to become more fragile and prone to breakage.

Alternative Styling Ideas: Allow your hair to air dry or try heat-free styles like braids or can even opt for heatless curling rods. If you must use styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray to shield your strands from further damage.

Deep Condition Regularly

Deep conditioning treatments are a lifeline for coloured hair. They replenish moisture and repair damage caused by the colouring process. Choose nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, and aloe vera for maximum benefits.

DIY Mask Tip: Create a homemade mask with natural ingredients like banana, honey, and coconut oil to restore moisture and shine.

Trim Regularly to Prevent Split Ends

Coloured hair tends to develop split ends, which can lead to further breakage. To keep your hair in top shape, make it a habit to trim your hair every 6–8 weeks.

Wash Less and Use Cold Water

Over-washing your hair can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more susceptible to damage. Aim to wash your hair only 2–3 times a week. Always rinse with cold water to seal the cuticle and lock in moisture.

Pro Tip: Before shampooing, apply a light oil (such as argan or almond oil) to protect your hair from the drying effects of water.

Protect Your Hair From Environmental Damage

Exposure to UV rays, pollution, and extreme weather conditions can damage coloured hair and cause fading. Use UV protectant sprays, wear a hat or scarf when outdoors for long periods, and protect your hair from harsh elements.

Bonus Tip: Switch to a satin pillowcase to reduce friction while sleeping, which helps prevent hair breakage and keeps your strands smooth.

Other Factors That Can Worsen Hair Fall After Colouring

Hormonal Imbalances

Fluctuations in hormones, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid imbalances, can lead to increased shedding, especially after colouring.

Solution: If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Managing stress levels and maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce the impact on your hair.

Dry or Dehydrated Hair

Colouring strips your hair of moisture, leaving it drier and more brittle. Dry hair is prone to breakage, which can contribute to hair fall.

Solution: Regular deep conditioning treatments with nourishing oils like argan or jojoba oil are key. Avoid hot showers and excessive heat styling to prevent further dehydration.

Hair Conditions

Conditions like alopecia, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can exacerbate hair fall after colouring. These conditions cause inflammation or moisture loss, making hair more fragile when exposed to the chemicals in dyes.

Solution: To manage these conditions, focus on soothing, hydrating scalp treatments with aloe vera or chamomile oil. Avoid harsh chemical products and opt for natural hair masks to maintain moisture and strength. If your scalp is highly sensitive, consider using temporary dyes or less frequent treatments.

FAQS

Wrap-Up

Achieving vibrant, healthy coloured hair while preventing hair fall is easier than you think. Opt for ammonia-free, peroxide-free dyes and support your hair with biotin, zinc, and iron-rich foods. Use sulphate-free, colour-protecting shampoos to lock in moisture, and limit heat styling by exploring heat-free options. Protect your hair from environmental stress and switch to a satin pillowcase to reduce friction. By following these steps, you’ll maintain strong, shiny hair and keep hair fall at bay.