Is Ash Blonde Hair Hard to Maintain?
Ash blonde hair can require some maintenance, primarily because it’s a cooler, more ashy tone, which tends to fade faster than warmer blonde shades. The key factors that affect how hard it is to maintain include:
- Root Regrowth: As your natural color grows in, the contrast with the ash blonde can be noticeable. Depending on how fast your hair grows, you may need touch-ups every 4-6 weeks to keep it looking fresh.
- Brassiness: Ash blonde can sometimes turn brassy over time, especially if you’re exposed to a lot of sun, chlorine, or hard water. Regular use of purple shampoos can help neutralize any unwanted warm tones and keep the cool, ash finish.
- Hair Health: Bleaching to achieve ash blonde can be tough on your hair, so maintaining its health with deep conditioning treatments and minimizing heat styling is important to keep it looking good.
Overall, while it may require regular upkeep and attention to prevent brassiness, it’s manageable with the right products and routine.
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How to maintain ash blonde hair requires a combination of color-preserving hair care, hydration, and regular toning to prevent brassiness.
Since ash blonde shades tend to fade or develop unwanted warm tones over time, it’s important to use the right products and techniques to keep the color cool and vibrant.
How to Maintain Ash Blonde Hair Tip #1. Use a Purple Shampoo and Conditioner
Ash blonde hair can turn yellow or brassy over time.
To neutralize these warm tones, use a purple shampoo once or twice a week. Look for sulfate-free formulas to avoid drying out your hair.
A matching purple conditioner can help keep your hair hydrated while maintaining the cool tones.
How to Maintain Ash Blonde Hair Tip #2. Keep It Hydrated
Lightened hair tends to be more porous and prone to dryness.
Use a moisturizing mask or deep conditioner at least once a week.
Leave-in treatments with keratin, argan oil, or hyaluronic acid can help keep your strands smooth and prevent breakage.
3. Limit Heat Styling
Frequent heat styling can dull your color and cause damage.
If you must use hot tools, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand and keep the temperature moderate.
Air-drying when possible is even better.
4. Use a Toning Treatment
Purple shampoo helps, but a professional toner or at-home toning treatment every few weeks can help maintain the perfect shade of ash blonde.
Choose a toner with blue or violet undertones to cancel out unwanted warmth.
5. Avoid Hard Water and Chlorine
Minerals in hard water can cause buildup, leading to dullness and brassiness. Consider installing a shower filter or using a clarifying shampoo occasionally to remove residue. If you swim in chlorinated pools, wet your hair beforehand and use a swim cap or apply a protective leave-in conditioner.
6. Refresh the Color Regularly
Ash blonde hair fades over time, so salon touch-ups or at-home color refreshers are essential.
Some brands offer color-depositing masks or glosses to maintain the tone between appointments.
7. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
UV rays can cause fading and dryness.
Use a UV-protectant spray or wear a hat when spending extended time in the sun.
Ash icy blonde hair has become one of the most sought-after shades, offering a cool and striking alternative to traditional blonde hues.
Photo credits: Neäl Wølf