How to Keep Your Colour Looking Polished Between Appointments

There’s nothing quite like leaving the salon with freshly coloured hair – glossy, vibrant, and full of confidence. But after a few weeks, that shine can start to fade. Whether you're dealing with brassy blondes, dulled brunettes, or fading fashion tones, we understand how disappointing it can feel.

At The Vintage Avenue in Biggleswade, we believe your hair colour should continue turning heads long after you’ve stepped out of the salon. That’s why our stylists have pulled together this elegant and effective guide — helping you maintain that salon-fresh look with ease and confidence

1. Hold Off on Washing Too Soon

It’s tempting to wash your hair straight after your appointment, but waiting at least 48 hours allows the cuticle to close and the colour to settle. A little patience now will reward you with longer-lasting brilliance.

2. Choose the Right Shampoo & Conditioner

Generic “colour-safe” shampoos often fall short. Many are packed with sulphates and cleansers that strip colour.
We recommend using your stylist’s suggested Alfaparf products. They’re expertly formulated to support the exact pigments we’ve applied, helping your shade stay vibrant, soft, and healthy.

3. Wash Less Often, Refresh in Between

Frequent washing accelerates colour fade. Aim for 2–3 washes per week, using a gentle dry shampoo between washes to keep your hair looking and feeling fresh.
We love the Hair Gain dry shampoo — ask your stylist about it next time you're in.

4. Keep the Water Cool (or Cooler)

Hot showers may be comforting, but your colour will thank you for cooler rinses. Warm or lukewarm water helps to seal the cuticle and reduce colour loss, preserving your shade’s intensity and shine.

5. Protect Against Heat Styling

If you use heat tools, a quality heat protector is essential. Colour-treated hair is more vulnerable, and excessive heat can cause pigments to fade faster.
Look for heat protectants with added UV filters. Alfaparf’s thermal spray offers this dual protection — plus, it smells beautiful.

6. Be Sun & Pool Smart

Sun, saltwater, and chlorine can all dehydrate your hair and alter colour. If you're travelling or spending time outdoors:

• Wear a hat for UV protection
• Apply a leave-in conditioner with sun filters
• Wet your hair before swimming to reduce chlorine absorption
• Rinse thoroughly after swimming or sun exposure

7. Gloss & Toner Services Between Appointments

One of our best-kept secrets: book a toner or gloss treatment mid-way between colour services. It’s a simple, affordable way to revive your tone and restore shine without committing to a full appointment.

• Blondes: Tone down brassiness
• Brunettes & Reds: Keep tones rich and warm
• Fashion shades: Revive vibrancy and boost colour intensity

8. Hydrated Hair Holds Colour Better

Moisture is key to colour retention. Use a weekly deep-conditioning mask to keep your strands nourished and vibrant.
Alfaparf offers masks for every hair type — if you’re unsure which one to choose, your stylist will be happy to help at your next visit.

9. Rebook to Stay Radiant

Each colour has a natural life span. Waiting too long between visits can mean needing a full refresh rather than a simple top-up.
We’ll help you plan a routine that works — whether it's regular toners, a deluxe Cut & Finish, or a tailored colour plan to suit your lifestyle and preferences.

A Final Note from The Vintage Avenue Team

Your colour is an investment — in your style, your confidence, and your self-care. With thoughtful aftercare and expert support, it’s easy to keep it looking beautiful between appointments.

Our team is always here to guide you, whether it’s recommending the perfect mask, scheduling a toner top-up, or simply answering your questions.

Pop into the salon or give us a call on 01767 210210 — and let’s keep your colour looking polished, radiant, and unmistakably you.