How to Maintain Your Red Hair Color

Cosmopolitan.com

Crushing on Christina Hendricks's crimson strands or caught the red-hair bug after spotting Lindsay Lohan's new look? Red has proven itself to be the hottest hair color in Hollywood, but it's also the hardest to maintain. We got the scoop on how to keep your dyed fiery strands looking radiant longer.

By Carly Cardellino

Suds Up Safely
The cardinal post-coloring rule: "Wait at least two days to wash your hair," says Elizabeth Hiserodt, senior colorist at John Frieda at Serge Normant Salon in NYC. Washing right away can cause the cuticle (your hair's outermost layer) to lift, allowing the color to seep out.

To maintain the brightness of your Annie-like locks, Hiserodt recommends using a color-treated shampoo and conditioner when you do decide to suds up. "These formulas don't contain harsh sulfates, so they won't strip your strands of its gorgeous hue," she adds.

Try Pravana Color Ensure Shampoo and Conditioner, $15 each, pravana.com.

Related: What Guys Notice About You Instantly

Spring for Dry Shampoo
"Cleansing your hair on a daily basis can lead to premature fading," says Hiserodt. "If your hair tends to get oily quickly and you find yourself wanting to wash it every day, use a dry shampoo instead." This helps sop up oil and gives you a little extra time in between washes, she adds.

We like Serge Normant Meta Revive Dry Shampoo with Cedar Bark, $25, sergenormant.com.

Related: How To Get Red Carpet Hair

Use a UV Protectant
Hair, much like skin, can suffer from sun damage, so it's important to keep it shielded from harsh rays. Spritzing on a UV solution daily to prevent your color fading faster. "This is especially important to remember when you're on vacation or surf- or pool-side, since you're usually spending a lot of time outdoors," says Hiserodt. "In those instances, wear a hat or cover your hair with a silk scarf for extra protection."

One spray we love: Pureology EssentialRepair ColourMax UV Hair Colour Defense, $22, pureology.com.

Go for a Glaze
Stay away from colored shampoos that claim to keep your color looking amazing longer. "They usually end up depositing too much pigment for daily use and can actually change the tone of your hair," says Hiserodt.

Instead, every four weeks she recommends going to the salon or using an at-home glaze to boost vibrancy and shine.

Try John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze Clear Shine, $9.99, sold in drugstores nationwide

Conceal Your Roots
We all know that when our true color begins to grow back it isn't pretty, so if it isn't time to hit up the salon or DIY at home just yet (usually after six weeks), opt for a product that covers your regrowth temporarily.

Try Rita Hazan Root Concealer Touch Up Spray, $24, sephora.com. This life-changing spray comes in shades from platinum blonde to red to black and completely covers any signs that your current color isn't the one you were born with.

Read more at Cosmopolitan.com!

20 Sexy Ideas for Long Hair
Beauty Tricks to Look Great in Pictures
8 Dates He'll Remember Forever
Are You Dating Up or Down?

Become a fan of Cosmo on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Want More Sex & Love Advice? Subscribe to Cosmo & Save Up to 77%!