colour correction sheet
If you are having a change of colour or a colour correction it is crucial to understand the maintenance and risks associated with using bleach, lighteners, and colour removers. At Avenue Boutique, we are committed to keeping your hair in the best condition throughout your colour correction journey.
Hair History
Providing a full history of your hair colour is essential. This information helps your stylist choose the appropriate product strength. Failure to disclose this could lead to irreparable damage and unsatisfactory results.
Unpredictability
Lifting previously coloured hair can be unpredictable. We use strand tests to gauge the likelihood of achieving your desired result. Hair lightens through stages of red, orange, yellow, to pale yellow. The process depends on previous colour, hair condition, texture, and existing colour. We can only lighten as far as safely possible. If your hair cannot lift beyond the orange-yellow stage without risking permanent damage, we will stop until your hair is healthy enough to proceed. Multiple sessions may be needed to reach your ideal result.
Damage Limitation
Bleach and lightening products strip pigment, protein, moisture, and break di-sulphide bonds in your hair. Professional home care and a good aftercare routine are both critical to rebuilding your hair’s internal structure. Without this care, your hair could disintegrate and snap, preventing you from achieving your desired colour.
On-Scalp Bleach
If you need on the scalp bleach for a colour correction please be aware that this can cause scalp irritation, redness, and itching. Bleach is an irritant and will leave the scalp slightly pink, which will subside after a couple of days.
In-Salon Care
We recommend using a bond builder such as Olaplex or Rebond during every bleaching and lightening service, even for foils. These treatments prevent the bonds in your hair from breaking. While they may increase the cost, they are an investment in your hair’s future health. Skipping these treatments may be manageable once or twice, but it will not sustain long-term hair health and desired results.
After-Care
Your at home care significantly affects how long your colour lasts and your hair's health. Use high-quality hair care products to maintain your colour. These products should keep the cuticle smooth, lock in your colour, and contain antioxidants to slow fading. Maintaining a balance of moisture and protein is crucial to keep your hair in optimal condition for future colour appointments.
Weekly Treatment
We recommend a weekly bond-building treatment, such as Olaplex or rebond. to maintain your hair’s strength and prevent deterioration. Regular treatments help your hair hold and maintain its colour longer and prevent it from looking dry and dehydrated.
Heat Protection
Using heat protection is essential if you apply any heat to your hair. Without it, your hair will fade and become damaged, much like a frequently washed and ironed t-shirt loses its vibrancy. Heat protection helps prevent this, keeping your hair looking fresh and healthy and vibrant.
Oxygen & Hair Colour
Oxygen lightens and fades hair colour through oxidation, accelerated by heat. Although we can’t avoid oxygen, we can slow oxidation with antioxidants, found in high-quality hair products. All our products contain antioxidants to help preserve your colour.
COLOUR FADING
Fade with Toners
After lightening, we often use gloss and toners to achieve the desired look and neutralise unwanted tones. Toners are not permanent and will need regular top-ups. With proper care, toners last 4 weeks on healthy hair but fade faster on damaged hair. Increase your toner longevity with weekly use of purple shampoo or coloured conditioners.
All Artificial hair Colour Fades Warm
All artificial hair colours eventually fade warm. The speed of this process depends on home care and environmental factors. Regular refresh appointments and professional products help manage warmth in your colour.
Fading Factors
To minimise fading avoid the following particularly in the first week after your appointment,
- Sun exposure or heat (this speeds up the oxidation process)
- Swimming in pools (chlorine fades colour)
- Swimming in the sea (salt is corrosive)
- Swimming in lakes or rivers (minerals may react with hair colour)
- Extreme windy conditions (like walking or playing golf)
- Using strong scalp shampoos (e.g., Head and Shoulders)
If you are exposed to any of the above on a regular basis then you should expect your colour to fade quicker than most. Use the best hair care you can and follow all your stylists advice to help reduce it.
Remember having a good home care routine is an essential part of maintaining your hair colour
