Top Tips for Making Hair Last Longer Between Salon Visits
Hair services have become more expensive than ever, with pricing estimated to have increased by 30 percent since 2020. In a time where people are having to manage their spending more closely, it makes sense that they want their hair to last longer between appointments. Whether you invest in high-maintenance cuts, colour, extensions or treatments, the right care at home can help stretch the life of your locks between appointments and save you some money.
Here’s how you can take care of your hair at home to maximise salon results…
#1 Make colour last longer
The most expensive and high-maintenance hair colours are usually anything that requires bleaching – think bright blondes and colourful shades like pastels. These looks typically require regular toning and root touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to avoid brassiness and keep the colour and roots looking fresh. Red shades are also very high maintenance as they’re one of the fastest fading colours, so keeping them looking vibrant requires frequent trips to the salon. If you’re on a budget and looking to make fewer trips to the salon, opting for a colour close to your natural hair shade is best.
Soft balayage and root smudges can help conceal darkening roots and create a seamless transition from a lighter shade like blonde into brunette tones, all without constant upkeep.
‘Lived in’ shades have become popular, like ‘recession blonde,’ which is all about letting roots grow in seamlessly and embracing the dimension of multi-tonal locks. Colours like warm brunettes, caramel tones and bronde are great for this.
The easiest way to protect coloured hair at home is to avoid washing it too often. Twice per week is ideal to avoid stripping the colour from strands.
The products you use matter most. Always opt for sulphate-free products and choose ones specifically formulated to protect and nourish coloured hair. Purple shampoos are designed to reduce brassiness in blonde hair, while colour-depositing masks can refresh dull colour. Make sure to wash hair with lukewarm or cool water, as this will help seal the cuticle and lock colour in.
Heat styling can also fade colour faster, so reduce hot tool use where possible, but also apply plenty of heat protectant and let hair air dry until damp before using any heat.
#2 Extend the life of treatments
Hair treatments like keratin, protein, glossing and oil services can be game-changers for anyone dealing with frizz, breakage, dull locks and dry scalps.
Keep in mind that these treatments can be on the expensive side and do require commitment at home. For some, you’ll need to avoid certain products, limit hair washing and avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine.
To save money, you can recreate these treatments at home with more affordable products, such as home keratin treatment kits. Results can also be replicated with protein and bond-based treatments to heal damaged locks. Glossing treatments can also be purchased to use at home, and you can oil your own scalp with your oil of choice.
Rosemary oil can help stimulate hair growth, while argan and coconut oil can hydrate and moisturise follicles and the scalp. Peppermint and tea tree oils are perfect for soothing dry and irritated scalps.
When it comes to prolonging the results of these treatments, using the right products at home and caring for your hair correctly is key.
For keratin and protein treatments, opt for products specifically made to protect the results of smoothing treatments. Wait at least 72 hours before washing your hair after a keratin treatment, too.
Glossing treatments can be preserved by minimising heat styling and protecting locks from the sun with SPF spray.
#3 Ensure extensions last
Hair extensions are an investment, but with the right care, they can last for several months. This is especially the case for tape-in extensions. It’s understandable that people will seek to get the most out of their hair extensions, and this starts with proper care at home.
They should be gently brushed before going to bed with a loop brush. Hold the roots near the scalp to prevent tugging and start from the ends, working your way up to minimise fallout.
Always use sulphate-free hair products and, if possible, opt for ones specifically formulated for extensions care. Avoid applying conditioner to the bonds as this can cause them to break down sooner. You should also limit heat styling where possible, since extensions can dry out faster than your natural hair.
If you want to avoid higher costs, clip-in hair extensions are a great option as these can be installed and removed yourself and can be easier to take care of for longevity.
#4 Get the most out of haircuts
Short styles like blunt bobs, pixie cuts or anything with a heavy fringe tend to need regular trims every 4-6 weeks to keep their shape. While they look amazing, they can be costly and time-consuming .
Precision haircuts require regular trims to stay looking sleek, as once they start growing out, they can lose their shape and polish quickly.
If you’re looking for something less high maintenance, ask your stylist for a cut that grows out softly – think long layers, curtain bangs or face-framing pieces.
A longer style with blended layers or a shaggy cut can last months without looking overgrown.
A trim every few months is ideal, but if you’re stretching your appointments, regular at-home care will help. Protect your hair from heat and apply moisturising hair masks to keep ends hydrated and smooth.
Written by hair expert Nicole Petty of Milk & Blush