So, you’ve taken the plunge and dyed your hair that shade you’ve always dreamed of. Looks fabulous, doesn’t it?
But here’s the thing: keeping that color looking fresh and your hair feeling healthy is like, super important. You don’t want your vibrant locks turning into a faded memory, right?
I get it, though. Scrolling through endless hair care tips can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. “Use this product,” “No, use that method,” – it’s enough to make your head spin!
And here’s a little confession: I’ve been right where you are, trying all the things and wondering why my hair wasn’t feeling the love.
But guess what? We’ve got something super exciting for you!
We’ve put together a downloadable “Weekly Hair Care Routine” that’s about to become your hair’s new best friend.
It’s easy, straightforward, fun, and most importantly, it works. This guide is our little secret (well, not so secret anymore) to keeping my colored hair popping and full of life.
It’s packed with expert insights and tips from the pros and now sharing it with you!
You can grab a printable weekly routine here…
Or, keep reading and we’ll discuss everything that’s in the routine in detail below…!
Table of Contents
- How to Use the Weekly Hair Care Guide
- Weekly Hair Care Routine for Colored Hair
- Day 1: Deep Clean & Scalp Care
- Day 2: Hydrate & Condition
- Day 3: Protein Treatment (Every 2 Weeks)
- Day 4: Style & Protect
- Day 5: Refresh & Volume
- Day 6: Moisture & Repair
- Day 7: Rest & Natural Oils
- Weekly Top Tips For Every Hair Type
- How to Adjust The Weekly Routine for Your Hair Type
- Why Does Colored Hair Need Special Care?
- Parting Words
- Our Research & Review Process
How to Use the Weekly Hair Care Guide
Before we get into the luscious details of your hair’s new routine, let’s get something super important out of the way: every strand of hair on your head is as unique as you are.
That means while this guide is your roadmap to hair nirvana, it’s also just a starting point. Here’s how to make it truly yours:
Flexibility First: This isn’t a Monday-to-Sunday deal; it’s a Day 1 to Day 7 routine. That means you can start anytime, whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or a bustling Wednesday morning. Your new hair care routine begins when you’re ready, fitting perfectly into your lifestyle.
Tailor It to Your Schedule: Look at your week—maybe you’ve got back-to-back meetings on Thursday or a chill work-from-home day on Monday. Use this rhythm to decide which hair care steps fit best on which days. Your routine should flow with your life, not complicate it.
Listen to Your Locks: Pay attention to how your hair responds to each step. Does it rejoice with every hydrating mask, or does it crave more protein-packed treatments? Your hair’s reaction is your best guide.
Adjust as Needed: Depending on whether you have oily, dry, curly, straight, thick, or thin hair, you’ll want to tweak the routine. More moisture for dry and curly types, less frequent washing for oily and fine hair, and so on (more on this below).
Experimentation Station: The beauty of hair care is discovering what makes your hair thrive. Don’t shy away from trying different products or frequencies of treatments until you find your hair’s happy place.
Weekly Hair Care Routine for Colored Hair
Welcome to your go-to weekly hair care routine, perfect for anyone navigating the challenges of dry, damaged, or colored hair.
Whether you’re showing off your personality with colorful hues or dealing with the stresses of hair damage from bleaching or dyeing, this guide is here to help.
By following this routine, you’ll be on your way to maintaining healthy, lustrous hair week after week. And keep reading below to get some top tips on how to tailor it just for you!
Day 1: Deep Clean & Scalp Care
Morning Routine
Kick off your week by showing your hair some love with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
These products are free of nasties that strip hair color are a game-changer for anyone with colored or damaged hair.
They clean without being harsh, keeping your color bright and your scalp happy. I’ve been using these products for ages, and let me tell you, they make a difference.
My color lasts longer, and my hair feels softer. Plus, avoiding that stripped-down feeling you get with regular shampoos? Priceless.
Expert Insights
“Look for shampoos with nourishing ingredients like argan oil or keratin for an added boost of moisture and strength. Make sure you rinse thoroughly, it will help to make your hair shine.”
Enza Piazza, Hair Stylist & Color Consultant
Evening Wind Down
After a day out and about, it’s time to focus on your scalp.
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, after all. I use a bit of tea tree or peppermint oil at night. Just a few drops massaged in can help soothe any irritation and keep things feeling fresh.
It’s also great for promoting healthy hair growth. I started doing this on the advice of a hairstylist friend, and it’s been a staple in my routine ever since.
It’s like a mini spa session before bed, and my scalp has never felt better.
DIY Scalp Mask Recipe:
If you’re up for a little DIY, try this simple scalp mask once a week:
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (melted)
- 5 drops of peppermint oil
- 5 drops of tea tree oil
Mix these ingredients together and apply directly to your scalp. Massage in circular motions for a few minutes, then leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before washing out with your sulfate-free shampoo. It’s a fantastic way to detoxify and soothe your scalp.
Day 2: Hydrate & Condition
Morning Pep Talk
Today, we’re giving the shampoo a break. Yes, that’s right.
Your hair’s natural oils are like a superpower for keeping it healthy, and we don’t want to strip those away too soon.
Instead, grab your favorite leave-in conditioner. This is your secret weapon for adding back moisture and making your hair feel loved.
It’s like a drink of water for your hair, especially if you’re dealing with the usual dryness that comes with colored or treated hair.
I’ve found that applying it mainly to the mid-lengths and ends avoids any greasiness at the roots and gives my hair that soft, manageable feel we all crave.
Expert Insights
“For an extra hydration boost, consider braiding your hair loosely before you sleep. This helps prevent tangling and breakage, plus it works the oil in more evenly. You’ll wake up with beautifully soft, wavy hair.
Shalwah Evans, L’Oreal Paris
Evening Ritual
As the day winds down, it’s time to focus on preventing those pesky split ends and breakage.
A lightweight hair oil is perfect for this. Just a few drops applied to the ends can work wonders.
It seals in moisture and adds a layer of protection against daily wear and tear. Think of it as a nightly vitamin for your hair ends.
And don’t worry about it being too greasy—modern hair oils are designed to be light and absorb quickly. My go-to trick is to apply it about 30 minutes before hitting the pillow, giving it time to soak in fully.
DIY Leave-In Conditioner Hack
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make a simple, effective leave-in conditioner at home. Just mix your regular conditioner with water (a 1:3 ratio) and a teaspoon of aloe vera gel for an extra soothing effect.
Pour it into a spray bottle, shake well, and voila! You’ve got a homemade leave-in that’s perfect for hydration and shine.
Day 3: Protein Treatment (Every 2 Weeks)
Evening Insight
Mid-week calls for a bit of muscle, or in our case, protein for your hair. Every couple of weeks, we need to give our hair a strength boost.
That’s where a good protein treatment comes into play. It’s like a gym session for your hair strands, rebuilding and reinforcing those fibers to be strong and resilient.
If you’ve colored your hair, this step is crucial because the coloring process can weaken your hair, leaving it more susceptible to damage.
Now, I know what some of you are thinking: “But my hair doesn’t love protein treatments!” And that’s totally fine.
Your hair is as unique as you are, and for those with protein-sensitive hair, swapping out for a moisturizing deep conditioner is the way to go.
It’ll ensure your hair gets the hydration it needs without the risk of protein overload, which can make some hair types feel stiff or straw-like.
I love all things Olaplex for this but I know it can make some people’s hair drier and more prone ot snapping. This is protein overload. That’s why we recommend trying it every two weeks and see how you go.
Watch & Learn: How to Know When Your Hair Needs Protein
Here’s an awesome video tutorial from Licensed Cosmetologist & Hair Stylist Linwood Darkis who explains how to check if you hair needs protein and what to do if it does!
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?
For Colored Hair: In this routine, we recommend washing your hair just once a week to keep your color vibrant and long-lasting.
That’s because over-washing can strip away not only your hair’s natural oils but also the color you love. Use dry shampoos on your no-wash days to refresh your roots and add volume.
Remember that looking after your color means less frequent touch-ups and healthier hair overall.
For Dry and Damaged Hair: If your concern is more about dryness and damage rather than color maintenance, you might find washing your hair a bit more frequently than we’re recommending here—aim for around twice a week.
This helps remove build-up that can prevent moisture from penetrating your hair. Look for hydrating shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free and rich in nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin.
These ingredients help to repair and strengthen your hair with each wash.
Day 4: Style & Protect
Morning Moves
Still no washing today! We’re keeping the natural oils doing their thing for as long as possible.
When it comes to styling, let’s turn down the heat.
If you can, embrace your hair’s natural texture or find heatless styling methods that work for you.
But hey, sometimes we just need that blow dryer or curling iron to get the look we’re after, right? That’s where a good heat protectant spray becomes your best friend.
It forms a protective barrier around each hair strand, minimizing damage. Spritz it on, and you’re good to style, keeping your hair healthier in the long run.
Expert Insights
“On the days you’re using heat tools, try to use the lowest temperature setting that will still achieve your desired style. It’s a simple change that can significantly reduce heat damage over time. And remember, never underestimate the power of a good heat protectant spray—it’s like a security guard for your hair against heat damage.”
Schwartzkopf Professional
Evening Care
As the day winds down, it’s time to think about protecting your hair while you sleep.
Loose braids are a fantastic way to keep your hair tangle-free and prevent breakage.
Not into braids? A silk bonnet or pillowcase is your nighttime hero. They reduce friction, which means less breakage and frizz. braids
Plus, they help keep your hair’s moisture where it belongs, in your hair. I made the switch to a silk pillowcase a year ago, and it’s a game-changer. Waking up with smoother hair and fewer tangles? Yes, please!
Why This Matters: Everyday Health tells us that keeping your hair protected throughout the day and night not only maintains the health of your hair but also extends the life of your style and color. So by reducing heat styling and protecting your hair while you sleep, you’re taking important steps to prevent damage and keep your hair looking fabulous.
Day 5: Refresh & Volume
Morning Boost
We’re over the hump and cruising into the weekend vibe with a no-wash day that’s all about keeping things fresh and full of life.
Start your day by reaching once more for your trusty dry shampoo! It’s not just a lifesaver for absorbing oil; it’s like a magic wand for volume.
A quick spritz at the roots, a gentle massage with your fingertips, and voila, your hair is transformed with added lift and texture. It’s my go-to for those mornings when I want to look put together without much effort.
Plus, it gives my hair that just-washed scent, making me feel refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Expert Insights
“Make the most of your dry shampoo by applying it the night before. This lets the dry shampoo soak in overnight, absorbing oil as you sleep. You’ll wake up with hair that’s ready to take on the day, no morning refresh needed. It’s a small adjustment to your routine with a big payoff.”
Enza Piazza, Hair Stylist & Color Consultant
Evening Wind Down
Tonight, let’s give our hair the night off. No styling tools, no products—just let it be. It’s important to have these breaks in your routine to prevent overworking your hair and causing unnecessary stress.
If you’re like me and love a little evening ritual, consider a gentle scalp massage like you did earlier in the week on Day 1.
It doesn’t require any product, just your fingertips and a few minutes to relax and promote circulation. It’s a peaceful way to end the day, showing some love to your scalp and setting the stage for healthy hair growth.
Remember: Your hair’s needs can vary, so listen to it. Healthline recommends that if you find your scalp getting dry with frequent dry shampoo use, scale back or switch to a formula designed for sensitive scalps. It’s all about finding that sweet spot in your routine where convenience meets care.
Day 6: Moisture & Repair
Today’s the day we give our hair some serious TLC. After a week of styling, exposure to the elements, and just the ups and downs of daily life, it’s time to bring out the back up for moisture and repair.
Morning Deep Dive
Start your day by slathering on a deep conditioning mask. Or you can do this later.
Sometimes I like to put on some deep conditioner before spending an hour at the gym in the morning and then washing it all out afterwards!
Look for deep conditioners packed with goodness like argan oil, avocado, or shea butter. These ingredients are like a superfood smoothie for your hair, soaking deep into each strand to hydrate and repair.
The goal here is to undo any damage and prep your hair for another week of fabulousness.
While you let the mask work its magic for at least 30 minutes, catch up on a podcast, meditate, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
This isn’t just about hair care; it’s a moment of self-care. For those who really want to treat their hair, leaving the mask on overnight is like a restorative overnight camp for your strands.
Just tuck your hair under a shower cap and let the mask do its work while you sleep.
Expert Insights
“For an added boost, mix a few drops of your favorite hair oil into the mask before applying. This enhances the mask’s nourishing capabilities, giving your hair an extra layer of moisture and protection.”
Patrick Evan, Professional Hair Stylist & Salon Owner
Evening Ease
If you’ve gone the morning mask route, your evening routine is all about rinsing out the mask with lukewarm water and gently drying your hair.
Avoid using high heat when blow-drying; a cool shot or air drying is your best bet to lock in all that moisture without adding stress.
For the overnight mask mavens, morning will be your time to rinse and reveal softer, more vibrant hair. Either way, you’ll notice your hair feels more supple and looks healthier.
Watch & Learn: DIY Hair Masks You Can Make At Home
Fancy making your own hair masks with natural ingredients you already have at home? We LOVE this easy video tutorial that shows you the 10 best 2-ingredient hair masks to stop hair fall, thinning hair, repair hair, hair growth and more!
Day 7: Rest & Natural Oils
We’ve made it to Day 7, lovelies! Think of today as your hair’s Sunday: a day of rest, relaxation, and just soaking up all the good vibes from the week’s care.
Morning Chill
Today, we’re keeping it super low-key with your hair.
No washing, no heat styling – just letting it be in all its natural glory. It’s like giving your hair a mini vacation, allowing it to replenish its natural oils and take a breather from any products or tools.
If you’re stepping out and need a bit of styling, consider a gentle updo or a soft headband to keep things under control without any stress.
Pro Tip: If you’re up for it, today is also a great day for a gentle scalp massage. No need for oils or products, just use your fingertips to lightly massage your scalp. It boosts circulation, promotes relaxation, and just feels downright amazing.
Evening Ritual
As the day winds down, it’s the perfect time to show the ends of your hair some love with a touch of natural oil.
Argan, jojoba, or coconut oil are your go-tos for sealing in moisture, adding shine, and preventing frizzy split ends.
Just a few drops warmed between your palms and lightly applied to the ends can make a world of difference. It’s like a nightly hug for your hair, ensuring it stays hydrated and happy.
Expert Insights
“Giving your hair a rest from all the washing and styling allows it to reset. The natural oils do their work, strengthening your hair from within.“
John Frieda Professionals
Your colored hair is a beautiful expression of your unique personality and style. By following this weekly hair care routine, you can ensure your hair stays healthy, vibrant, and beautiful.
Adjust this routine as necessary to suit your hair’s needs and your lifestyle. Happy styling!
Weekly Top Tips For Every Hair Type
Always rinse your hair with cool water to seal the hair cuticles and keep your color from fading.
Limit heat styling to prevent damage and color fading.
Wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection to protect your hair color from the sun.
Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet to support hair health from the inside out.
How to Adjust The Weekly Routine for Your Hair Type
Every head of hair has its own blend of needs and preferences. Here’s how you can tweak our weekly hair care routine to perfectly align with your hair type, ensuring your locks get exactly what they need to look and feel their best.
For Fine and Straight Hair:
Fine and straight hair can easily become weighed down by too much product or overly rich treatments. The key is to maintain volume and lightness while ensuring your hair stays hydrated and healthy.
Routine Adjustments:
- Day 6 (Moisture & Repair): Opt for lightweight conditioning treatments that won’t leave residue behind. Consider reducing deep conditioning to every other week.
- Day 3 (Protein Treatment): If using a protein treatment, select a formula that is light and designed for fine hair to prevent overloading your strands.
For Curly and Coily Hair
Curly and coily hair thrives on moisture and benefits from treatments that enhance curl definition and combat frizz. Your routine should focus on deep hydration and strengthening to support your hair’s natural texture.
Routine Adjustments:
- Day 6 (Moisture & Repair): Incorporate additional hydration days using masks rich in natural oils and butters. You may also find benefit in applying a light oil more frequently to maintain moisture.
- Day 5 (Refresh & Volume): Use a curl-refreshing spray instead of traditional dry shampoo to revive your curls without drying them out.
For Thick and Wavy Hair
Thick and wavy hair often requires a balance between moisture and control to define waves and prevent frizz. Your adjustments should aim to enhance your hair’s natural volume and texture while keeping it manageable and healthy.
Routine Adjustments:
- Day 2 (Hydrate & Condition) and Day 6 (Moisture & Repair): Use products that are hydrating but don’t weigh your hair down. Consider alternating between protein treatments and deep conditioning to keep your waves defined and strong.
For Oily or Greasy Hair
Managing oily or greasy hair is all about balancing scalp health and avoiding excess moisture while ensuring the ends of your hair stay hydrated and healthy.
Routine Adjustments:
- Day 1 (Deep Clean & Scalp Care): Use a clarifying shampoo once every two weeks to help control oil production and keep your scalp feeling fresh.
- Day 5 (Refresh & Volume): Embrace dry shampoo as a go-to for extending the time between washes, applying it as needed to absorb oil and lift your roots.
For Dry and Damaged Hair
Dry and damaged hair needs a regimen focused on restoration and hydration. Intensive moisturizing treatments and gentle handling are essential to bring back softness and shine.
Routine Adjustments:
- Day 6 (Moisture & Repair): Feel free to add an extra day of deep conditioning into your week, focusing on products that repair and nourish your hair.
- Day 7 (Rest & Natural Oils): Incorporate a more intensive oil treatment, applying not just to the ends but throughout your hair to ensure all-over hydration and repair.
Why Does Colored Hair Need Special Care?
Colored hair looks amazing, but it doesn’t stay vibrant and healthy by accident. It needs a bit more attention than non-colored hair, and here’s why:
It’s All in the Structure: Coloring your hair changes its structure, making it more prone to damage. This means your hair can become dry, brittle, and less elastic, which leads to breakage if not properly cared for.
The Battle with Fading: One of the biggest challenges for colored hair is maintaining its color. Without proper care, your vibrant shades can quickly fade, leaving your hair looking washed out.
Dryness and Damage: Colored hair is more susceptible to dryness and damage. This is because the dyeing, lightening and bleaching process can strip natural oils from your hair, affecting its natural moisture balance.
The Solution: A Tailored Routine: A weekly hair care routine designed for colored hair can make all the difference. It can help manage these common issues by providing gentle care to maintain moisture, reduce damage, and keep your color looking fresh and vibrant for longer.
By dedicating a bit of time each week to care for your colored hair, you’re not just maintaining its color; you’re also improving its overall health and texture. And that’s exactly what our guide and personal planner are here to help you achieve.
Parting Words
And there we have it—a complete guide to loving and living up your colored hair!
Remember, whether it’s radiant reds, bold blues, or pretty pastels, keeping your colored hair bright and healthy isn’t just about turning heads; it’s about nurturing your hair with the care it truly deserves.
From deep cleaning to deep conditioning, each step of this journey has been crafted with love and science to ensure your hair not only looks fabulous but feels it, too.
Now’s the time to take the leap and start your journey to healthier, more vibrant colored hair. Trust us, your hair will thank you for it!
But why stop there? There’s a whole world of hair care and beauty tips on our blog.
We’ve got a treasure trove of resources, tips, and tricks to help you keep your hair game strong. And if you’re all about staying ahead in the world of beauty, why not sign up for our newsletter? It’s your monthly dose of inspiration, direct to your inbox, featuring the latest trends, products, and hair care secrets.
So, what are you waiting for? Join our community and let’s embark on this beautiful journey together. Your dream hair is just a click away, and we can’t wait to see where this adventure takes you. Here’s to a future of hair that’s as vibrant and full of life as you are!
Got a routine that works for you? We’d love to hear about it! Tag us on Instagram @colouredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair care success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
