Dying your hair a crazy color is a fun way to shake things up and add a bit of flair to your style. However, we’ve all seen what happens to people who don’t take care of their new dye job. Split ends. Faded locks. The horror!

If you want to keep your locks fabulous, it requires some extra care. But don’t let that stop you! Here is a guide full of tips to keeping your colorful hair vibrant.

This one’s easy. Hot water opens the hair cuticle, allowing color to escape. So, when you wash your hair, turn down the temperature. This also helps prevent frizz! 

Bleach is damaging. The key to having healthy, color rich hair is all about keeping your locks moisturized. Using a hair mask once a week will revitalize your hair. Focus on dry ends and make sure to follow the mask’s directions, lest you end up with greasy hair. I'm a big fan of Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother, which my hairstylist recommended to me.

Eventually you’re going to have to add more color. But when life gets busy you might put off your hair appointment too long! Something I’ve started doing is scheduling my next appointment right after getting my hair done. Your stylist can help you decide when the next time to come in should be. 

Adding color yourself can be tricky. I once ended up with a huge, blue spot in the middle of my part. However, this trick is easy enough for even the amateur. Consider adding a couple drops of hair dye to your conditioner to refresh your color. 

If you just had your dye job, leave the shampoo alone! The color needs some time to settle, so wait 2 days before shampooing.

The shampoo you use will make all the different. It is best to only use one that is made for color treated hair or is sulfate free. Biolage's ColorLast Shampoo and Conditioner works great.

Heat is damaging to your hair, and strong color is all about healthy locks. Lay off the hot tools when you can, but when you NEED that extra curl, make sure you put a heat protecting spray over your ends. I use Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil

Some shampoos come with toners mixed in. They look bright purple or blue and can help preserve the color of your hair. If you have a cool tone, using one of these shampoos on occasion can help preserve your locks.

When my hair looks dry on the ends, I like to add a couple drops of jojoba oil to give them some moisture. Argan oil is also a good choice. Just stay away from coconut oil - It penetrates the hair cuticle, which can cause color loss!

You shouldn’t be washing your hair everyday if you want to maintain your color. Shampoo will strip the dye out over time, plus your natural oils are great for your hair's health. You can wash your hair less but keep it from getting oily by spritzing some dry shampoo on your roots. This one, from Big Sexy Hair, is my favorite. Not only does it absorb oils, but it also adds volume.

Pastels are in, right? Dying your hair a crazy color is all about breaking the rules and being yourself. If you like the way it looks when the color is faded, then rock it!