The Blonde's Guide to Maintaining Beautiful Color

You’ve heard the old saying that blondes have more fun—and while that may be true in some respects, it certainly doesn’t hold any weight when it comes to maintaining that iconic color. Talk about tough work! As one of the most high maintenance dye jobs out there, bottle blondes know a thing or two about visible roots and frequent salon visits. Ever wonder if there’s a way to cater to your golden locks for a longer-lasting, eye-catching hue between visits? We’ve got good news: If you follow the eight blonde hair care rules below, including using a stay blonde shampoo, you can help maintain your pretty color—whether that's platinum or honey—in between dye jobs. See you never, brassy blonde hair color!

1. OPT FOR HIGHLIGHTS INSTEAD OF ALL-OVER COLOR

Before you rush into dyeing your hair platinum blonde—which, despite being all the rage is super-hard to maintain—consider going for a head full of highlights instead. That way, you can minimize how much time you’ll have to spend touching up your color. When you go to the salon, ask about balayage, a French technique of hand-painting highlights onto hair that’s considerably low maintenance.

2. USE COLOR-SAFE PRODUCTS INCLUDING A STAY BLONDE SHAMPOO

As with all dyed hair, one of the best ways to help maintain and protect your tint is to use products that are formulated specifically for color-treated hair. This is especially true for blondes because, over time, golden strands may become brassy. For blondes, it’s also a good idea to use products that are formulated for their hair color, like a stay blonde shampoo. Remember, different hair colors have different needs! Try the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Blonde Shampoo, L’Oréal Paris EverPure Blonde Conditioner, and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Blonde Shade Reviving Treatment, which can help to neutralize brassy blonde hair color.

3. AVOID A BRASSY BLONDE HAIR COLOR WITH PURPLE SHAMPOO

Purple shampoo is a must to avoid a brassy blonde hair color. Just think of the color wheel! Purple tones counteract that unwanted orange, brassy hue that can appear in your blonde mane over time. To keep your blonde hair color looking its best, use a purple shampoo in lieu of your color safe, stay blonde shampoo a few times a week.

4. USE A HAIR MASK

Dyeing your hair can cause it to feel a little on the dry side, so add a hair mask, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Intense Repair Hair Sheet Mask, L’Oréal Paris EverPure Deep Moisture Hair Sheet Mask, or L’Oréal Paris Elvive Color Vibrancy Repair and Protect Balm, to your weekly routine.

5. PUT DOWN THE HOT TOOLS

We know, we know: Pin-straight locks, perfectly curled tresses, and next-level blowouts are some of your fave styles. Still, it’s a good idea to give your hair a break from heat styling and let it air dry—but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a beautiful style sans heat. When your hair is wet, spritz it with the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray for a textured, wavy look. Blonde hair + waves = beachy perfection.

6. PROTECT YOUR HAIR FROM THE SUN

While basking in the sun feels great, it can mess with your hair color, causing it to fade more quickly. So, grab a chic hat or scarf to cover up. Really, this is a win, win since you also need to protect your face from the aging effects of the sun—just don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen, too.

7. BE WARY OF CHLORINE

We love a dip in the pool as much as the next gal, especially when you’re lucky enough to have access to a heated pool in the winter, but according to the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, colored hair is prone to fading caused by chlorine exposure. So, consider tying your hair up and not getting your tresses wet next time you go for a swim.

8. TOUCH UP YOUR COLOR

Even if you follow all the rules, there will come a time when you’ll need to touch up your color. Depending on your desired shade, you may need to visit a colorist to see the best results. If you’re making a drastic change, that’s best left to a professional. If you’re going for something that’s not too far off from your natural color, coloring your hair at home is an option, so try the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference. 

If you simply need a quick fix before you can make it into the salon, use the L’Oréal Paris Magic Root Precision Pen or the L’Oréal Paris Magic Root Cover Up. We’d also like to point out that exposed roots are becoming super-trendy, so don’t stress if you don’t have time for touch-ups every few weeks. 

Ready to commit to a blonde hair color? Find your perfect shade in our article, The 21 Best Blonde Hair Colors for Every Skin Tone.