Why Is My Hair Dye Growing Out So Fast

You may not have been a hairstylist long if you have not had that

client that asked ”why is my hair dye growing out so fast?” one month after it was done. The question may be delivered in person or by phone (texting is new)  but we can still scramble because the answer could totally differ by the individual!

Over my career I got the question “why is my hair dye growing out so fast” many times.   In

most cases there are the usual reasons:

• Color molecules wash out of the cuticle esp. red.
• Water temperature e.g. if you wash with hot water, it will fade faster
• How many times you wash your hair – washing more means the color fades more
• Heat styling can lighten the color e.g flat irons,  blow dryers 
• Chlorine
• UV rays i.e. being in the sun does cause fading.
• Type of shampoos used – color safe shampoos or sulphate free shampoos are good for color-treated hair.
• Color lasts 6-8 weeks but gray hair will make it seem shorter.

It should be noted that folks from the older generation expect their color to keep for months. 

They will reiterate that their color “did not stay”.  If this is the case, the following explanations may help:

• As the person ages, it is better to choose a color that is not a bright contrast to gray.
• The gray will be most noticeable if it goes all across the hairline.
• Using temporary root concealers in the form of sprays, lipstick or powder can help keep the color longer.
• Offers for semi/demi permanent colors may be acceptable between the grow-out phase.
• If all else fails, e.g lower budget, it may be time to transition to their new natural color.

With time and asking the right questions, you will properly diagnose why your client is asking “why is my hair dye growing out so fast?”

By Paula Barker, Silkie Locks Hair Design

Books: “Talking Hair”, “Filling My Head” & “Dreadlocks – A Hairstylist’s Manifest”.