Fresh hair color looks incredible, but keeping it that way is a challenge. Fading, dullness and that washed-out look can appear within weeks if you use the wrong routine. The Wella Professionals ColorMotion+ Color Protection Shampoo is a dedicated cleanser for color-treated hair that aims to help lock in color while preserving smoothness and shine.
Here is what causes color to fade and how to slow it down.
Why Hair Color Fades
Color molecules sit inside the hair. Every wash, every sunny day and every heat styling session can loosen or break them down. Harsh shampoos and very hot water also open the outer layer of the hair and let color escape.
Hard water is another culprit, since minerals and metals in tap water can dull color and shift its tone.
What Is Inside ColorMotion+?
ColorMotion+ Color Protection Shampoo goes beyond simple anti-fading. It is formulated with Metal Purifier technology, which helps protect hair from the harmful metals present in water, and with antioxidants that help protect against the free radicals that dull color.
According to Wella, when used within the full ColorMotion+ regimen it delivers up to 8 weeks of color protection, helping to lock in color while maintaining smoothness and shine.
A Gentle Cleanse
Color-treated hair needs to be cleaned, but not stripped. This shampoo cleanses effectively while maintaining the smoothness and shine of the hair. Apply it to wet hair, distribute evenly, massage into a lather and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed.
Wash Less, Wash Cooler
The simplest way to preserve color is to wash less often. Try going two or three days between washes, using a dry shampoo if your roots get oily. When you do wash, use lukewarm or cool water, since hot water lifts the outer layer of the hair and lets color out.
- Metal Purifier technology to protect against metals in water
- Antioxidant-enriched to help defend against color-dulling free radicals
- Helps lock in color and maintain smoothness and shine
- Up to 8 weeks of color protection within the full regimen, according to Wella
Protect From Heat and Sun
UV rays fade hair color just like they fade fabric. Wear a hat or use a protective product when you are out for long stretches. Always use a heat protectant before blow drying, straightening or curling, and lower the temperature on your tools where possible.
Condition and Treat Regularly
Colored hair is more porous, so it needs regular moisture. Use a conditioner every wash and a weekly mask. Smooth, well-conditioned hair holds color better, and it reflects more light, which makes color look richer.
Pair your routine with a color-friendly conditioner such as the Oil Reflections Luminous Instant Conditioner, which is especially well suited to colored hair.
Timing Your Salon Visits
Wait at least 48 hours after coloring before washing, so the color has time to settle. Book touch-ups before your roots and tone drift too far, and ask your colorist which shampoo and conditioner they recommend for your specific shade.
Hair coloring works by depositing or changing pigment inside the hair shaft. According to general information on hair coloring, permanent color changes the hair chemically, which is why aftercare aimed at protecting the color and the hair fiber matters so much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it only for colored hair?
It is designed for color-treated hair, but any hair type can use it.
Do I need the whole ColorMotion+ range?
The 8-week protection claim applies when used within the full regimen, so pairing the shampoo with matching care is best.
How often should I use it?
Use it as your regular shampoo for color-treated hair, ideally with fewer washes per week.
Final Thoughts
Long-lasting color comes from a combination of good products and good habits. A dedicated color-protection shampoo, cooler water, fewer washes, heat and sun protection and regular conditioning will keep your color looking fresh for longer.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Color longevity varies with hair type, color, wash frequency and environment, and results are not guaranteed.