Want your red to be redder? Blonde to be blonder? Black to … you get the idea. Read on:

Sun Smarts: You should be avoiding the sun for your skin’s sake. Do it for your hair too - UV exposure is the number one cause of colour fade. At the very least, wear a scarf or hat when you’re out in the sunshine - or else spritz in a hair sunscreen.

In the Swim: Salt water and chorine can dry out, damage and ultimately fade haircolour. If you don’t wear a swimming cap, comb through a leave-in conditioner before swimming, then wash and rinse thoroughly afterwards.

Treat Yourself: Coloured hair needs to be kept hydrated - the more damaged hair is and the more open the cuticle layer, the less effectively it can hold onto colour pigment. So commit to a weekly deep-treatment. Lightened hair should use a mix of protein- and moisture-based treatments for best upkeep.

Blonde Condition: Another issue specific to blonde hair: it can easily become brassy. Use violet-toned haircare as needed, to counter the brassiness and cool hair down.

Take Care: In general, avoid regular use of colour-tinted shampoo and conditioner, in preference for colour-preserving haircare. Shampoo and conditioner that deposit pigment can ultimately lead to build-up and darkening of colour. They’re best used at the end of a colour cycle, before you can get to the salon, to temporarily boost back colour.

Glazing Over: Glazes - either at a salon or home - are a great way to lock in moisture and colour, add a pretty translucent tint, and amp up shine. One great buy: John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze ($19.99, call 1800 468 318 for info).

Dry Down: Don’t wash hair too much (or use harsh shampoos) - you’ll literally be washing your money down the drain. Extend the time in between washes by using dry shampoo to soak up oils at the roots. Bumble and bumble Aerosol Hair Powder ($68, from Mecca Cosmetica stores, see Mecca Cosmetica for details), comes in a variety of haircolour shades.

Cool Down: You should also limit heat styling, which can also damage hair and fade out colour. Always use a thermal protecting lotion, and try to opt for air-drying as much as possible.

Smooth Over: Straight hair reflects shine best, which best sets off colour. If you must straighten our curly hair, use a high-heat ceramic-plated iron to quickly smooth over the outer layers. Further flatten down the hair cuticle with a silicone-based serum or spray, which also enhances shine. Avoid any salt water-based sprays, which can have a drying, dulling effect on hair.

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