How to Prevent Brassy Hair and Achieve Long-Lasting Colour

Why Does My Hair Colour Fade to a Brassy Tone?

If you've ever coloured your hair, you've likely experienced colour fade. Most people have dealt with brassy tones at some point, but the type and intensity of brassiness can vary based on a few key factors.

Typical colour fade - Right to Left

Why Does Colour Fade?

Artificial hair colour fades over time—typically within 6-8 weeks—due to:

✔️ Regular shampooing and styling

✔️ Heat styling tools

✔️ Exposure to saltwater or chlorine while swimming

✔️ Natural elements like sun exposure

One of the most common reasons for noticeable brassiness, especially as you move into your 40s and beyond, is the increasing presence of white hairs. In your 20s and 30s, your hair held onto colour more effectively. However, as more white hairs grow in over time, they don't retain pigment the same way, leading to faster fading and unwanted warmth.

The Real Reason Behind Brassiness

💥 Pigment holds pigment. When hair colour is applied to strands that still contain natural pigment, it adheres well and fades gradually. However, white hairs lack natural pigment, meaning they struggle to hold onto artificial colour. These strands fade much faster, leaving you with a brassy appearance just 2-3 weeks after colouring.

💥 As the percentage of white hairs increases, the brassy tones become even more prominent. What once felt like a minor issue in your younger years can now feel like a never-ending battle.

What Are Your Options?

Some people opt for a lighter colour to blend with their white hairs, but this often results in the same fading issues—just on a lighter scale. Others choose highlights or foils to help mask brassiness, but this can sometimes leave them feeling disconnected from their natural look.

So, what’s the solution?

A New Approach to Hair Colouring

The key to long-lasting, natural-looking colour is working with your natural pigment, not against it. By embracing your hair’s natural colour patterns, you create a more harmonious blend that complements your depth and dimension. Allowing white hairs to remain lighter adds contrast and dimension rather than creating an unwanted brassiness.

✨ The best part? No more brassy hair—ever! ✨

Want to Learn More?

If you're looking for more guidance on making confident choices about your hair, my book, LOVE YOUR HAIR, is an incredible resource. It offers insightful advice on discovering your best hairstyle while also providing gentle tips on maintaining a healthy head of hair.

For more expert advice and a deeper dive into colour transitions, hair consultations, and premium haircuts, visit retreathair.com.au. You’ll also find other blogs that have helped many women take their next confident step towards a hairstyle that feels more aligned, natural, and effortless.

Let this be the beginning of a new direction in how you see and embrace your hair. 💛

By Natalie Varrasso

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