A person’s hair color can change for a number of reasons – some natural, some environmental, and some due to treatments or products.
While most people know that their hair color can change over time, they may not be aware of the various ways in which this can happen or the steps they can take to prevent or protect their hair from changing color.
However, with a little knowledge and care, it is possible to keep your hair looking its best – no matter what color it is.
Today, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons why hair changes color and how to prevent or protect your hair from unwanted color changes.
#1 Natural Causes of Hair Color Change
As we age, our hair naturally begins to lose its pigment. This is why most people’s hair turns gray or white as they age. While there is no way to completely prevent this type of color change, products, and treatments can help slow down the process and minimize the appearance of graying hair.
Hormonal changes can also cause hair to change color. Pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid conditions can all lead to temporary or permanent changes in hair color. If you are experiencing any of these changes and notice a change in your hair color, be sure to talk to your doctor or a licensed cosmetologist.
What you eat can also affect the color of your hair. For example, a deficiency in iron can cause your hair to become lighter or whiter. If you are concerned about your diet affecting your hair color, speak with a doctor or nutritionist.
Certain medical treatments can also cause hair to change color. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, for example, can lead to temporary or permanent changes in hair color. If you are undergoing any type of medical treatment, be sure to ask your doctor about possible side effects, including changes in hair color.
#2 Environmental Causes of Hair Color Change
Exposure to the sun can also cause hair to change color. UV rays can damage the hair follicles and lead to a loss of pigment. This is why people who spend a lot of time in the sun may notice their hair turning lighter or even redder over time.
If you are concerned about the effects of sunlight on your hair, be sure to use sunscreen or protective spray on your hair when you are outdoors. You can also try wearing a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun.
Exposure to other environmental factors, such as chlorine, hard water, and air pollution can also cause hair to change color. If you notice that your hair is starting to look dull or discolored, be sure to take extra care to protect it from these environmental factors.
#3 Products and Treatments That Can Cause Hair Color Changes
Certain hair products and treatments can also cause hair to change color. Permanent hair dyes, for example, contain chemicals that can penetrate the hair shaft and alter the hair’s natural pigment.
If you color your hair with permanent dyes, follow the instructions carefully and avoid getting the dye on your skin or clothes. You should also avoid applying dyes that are more than two shades darker than your natural hair color.
Bleaching products can also cause hair to change color. These products contain chemicals that strip the hair of its natural pigment. Bleaching can cause the hair to become dry and brittle, leading to a loss of color.
Certain hair treatments, such as straightening and curling, can also cause hair to change color. The heat from these treatments can damage the hair follicles and lead to a loss of pigment. If you use heat-based treatments, be sure to use them sparingly and avoid exposing your hair to excessive heat.
It’s also possible that a new shampoo formula causes it. Shampoo formulations are constantly shifting, and they may occasionally result in hair turning color. If you discover that your hair is changing color after switching shampoos, consider trying a different one.
How to Protect Your Hair From Unwanted Color Changes
There are a variety of things you may do to avoid or prevent hair color changes.
Use shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products can help to seal in your color and prevent fading.
Avoid using hot tools on your hair. Heat can cause colors to fade or change over time. If you must use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand.
Avoid bleaching, coloring, and perming your hair unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to use these treatments, be sure to use a good quality product and follow the instructions carefully.
Limit your time in the sun. Exposure to UV rays can cause hair color to fade or change. If you’ll be spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with SPF to protect your hair.
You can also use products that contain UV filters to help protect your hair from the sun. Look for products that contain ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
Be careful when using chlorine. Chlorine can strip away color, so it’s important to take extra care when swimming in pools. Wet your hair before getting in the pool and rinse it with clean water afterward. You can also use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any build-up from chlorine or other products.
Some supplements that can help with hair color changes:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Biotin
- Collagen
Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants that can help to protect the hair from damage. Biotin is a vitamin that helps to keep hair healthy and prevents shedding. Collagen is a protein that helps to keep the hair strong and prevents breakage.
Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, tomatoes, red peppers, and apricots are all good for maintaining your hair color. They’re all high in carotenoids, which can help to preserve the hair from damage and prevent color loss.
Caring for Color-changed Hair
If you have already noticed unwanted color changes in your hair, there are a few things you can do to care for it:
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Sulfates can strip away natural oils and color from the hair, so it’s important to use products that are geared specifically for color-treated hair.
- Avoid heat styling as much as possible. Heat styling tools like curling irons and blow dryers can cause further damage and color loss. If you must use heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand.
- Get regular trims. Getting your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks will help get rid of any damaged or split ends. Regular trims will also help keep your hair looking healthy and full.
- Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week. This will help add moisture back into your hair, which is essential for preventing further damage.
- Invest in a good quality hair care line specifically for color-treated hair. These products will help to protect your hair from further color loss and damage.
The hair care process for color-changed hair is not significantly different from what you would normally do to take care of your hair. However, it is important to be extra gentle with color-changed hair and use products specifically designed for color-treated hair.
The Verdict
Here are some of the most frequent causes of hair color change. You may prevent or protect your hair from unwanted color changes by being aware of these things.
You can also keep your hair healthy and beautiful despite any color changes with the right hair care.
Have you experienced any hair color changes? What did you do to take care of your hair? Let us know in the comments! We would love to hear from you!