How Long Does Color Last, and How Often Should You Refresh It?

These two questions are really the same question, so here's the real answer, and it depends on what's fading: your tone, or your actual color and placement.

Tone Fades First, No Matter What

Toner is the thin, final layer that perfects your shade, and it's always the first thing to go, regardless of whether you have traditional color or lived-in color. Most guests need a toner refresh every 4 to 6 weeks to keep things from drifting warm or brassy. This part of your maintenance schedule doesn't change based on technique.

What Changes: Your Actual Color

How often your underlying color and placement need a refresh depends entirely on which type of color you have.

If You Have Traditional Color

Traditional color and highlights are placed close to the root, so regrowth shows up faster. A full refresh is typically needed every 6 to 12 weeks to keep your root line and placement looking consistent.

If You Have Lived-In Color

Lived-in color is built to grow out softly. A full lived-in color service is only recommended once every 6 to 12 months. In between, a mini or partial refresh is typically needed every 4 to 6 months to touch up regrowth and revive dimension without redoing the entire service.

Putting It All Together

Whichever type of color you have, expect toner attention every 4 to 6 weeks. On top of that, traditional color asks for a full refresh every 6 to 12 weeks, while lived-in color asks for a mini refresh every 4 to 6 months and a full service only once every 6 to 12 months. Your colorist will map out your specific schedule at your consultation based on which path you choose.

Book Your Refresh

Ready to get your color back on track? Book your appointment and we'll get you the right refresh for your specific color.