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Top Colorists Share Their #1 Tip

We asked five industry pros for their absolute best piece of advice—here’s what they had to say

“My tip for great hair: Pre-hydrate. Before any color service and most importantly before a big color makeover, I insist on hydrating the hair fully before I even start working on it. Hydrated hair will lift, tone and color more like virgin hair. The ultimate super hydrator that I have tried to date is BiPhasic Infusion from Pai-Shau. Pre-treat the driest areas of the hair before coloring or lightening the hair for the most healthy, reflective shiny possible. My clients actually ask for the pre-treatment now because the results are breathtaking.” -Rob Pizzuti, Master Colorist & Pai-Shau Brand Ambassador

Wigs and color rinses can be a great way to try on a major hair color change before you take the big leap.  Nothing worse than making a major hair color change and then regretting it!” -James Corbett, Clairol Color Director

“The number one hair color tip I have is to stretch your time between shampoos, especially the first time after the color service. If you can wait an additional two days after getting your hair color done, then the color molecules will be able to attach more successfully to the hair, and you will have far less chance of color fading. Additionally, by stretching between shampoos (I recommend  L’ANZA Healing Colorcare Color-Preserving Shampoo), you give your hair’s natural oils a chance to work their magic on the hair and help improve its overall condition.” -Ammon Carver, L’ANZA Global Creative Director

“In order to make a change in your hair, you first have to start with a healthy palate. Your hair colorist can’t make dramatic changes to the hair if the hair fiber is compromised. Porosity changes when you over-process from color or bleach, over do it with heat styling, or simply don’t replenish the moisture that is removed from regular shampooing or environmental exposure. My recommendation: treat your hair, daily, with an oil specifically formulated for the hair. Products like Shu Uemura Essence Absolue (made with Camellia Oil) or Kerastase’s Elixir Ultime (made with Argan Oil, Camellia Oil, Pracaxi Oil, and corn germ) are absorbed by the hair fiber and strengthen the individual strands. They are more elastic, less brittle, allow hair color and products to absorb and work evenly. And, they act as a heat protectant and UV filter! With products like these, there are not unhealthy accesses of proteins that often cause more breakage!” -Colin Christopher, Hair Colorist at Salon Ziba 

“The number one color tip I would give my guest is to know what you’re signing up for. So, for example, if you are someone who prefers low maintenance color that only visits the salon twice a year, ask if the color you are choosing is right one for you. I recommend a soft form of balayage to all my low maintenance guests using L’ANZA 100 series color, which creates soft, yet noticeable highlights that have long-lasting results.” -Leah Freeman, L’ANZA Healing Color Director

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