Should You Really Come to Your Colour Appointment with Dirty Hair?
If you've ever been told to show up to your hair colour appointment with dirty hair—you're not alone. This age-old myth has been passed down like beauty folklore, but is there any truth to it? Let’s talk about it.
At Thatch & Fringe, we love when clients come prepared and curious, and one of the most common things we hear is:
“I didn’t wash my hair because I heard colour takes better on dirty hair.”
Let’s break that down.
The Origin of the Myth
Back in the day, hair colour formulations were harsher—think ammonia-packed and drying. Stylists would recommend not washing your hair for a day or two before colouring so your scalp’s natural oils could act as a protective barrier. It made sense then.
But now? It’s 2025. Colour technology has come a long way.
Here’s Why “Dirty Hair Is Better” Doesn’t Hold Up Anymore:
1. Product Buildup Can Interfere with Colour
Dry shampoo, oil, leave-in conditioner, and environmental residue build up on your strands and can block colour from fully penetrating. If your hair is too dirty, it may cause uneven results—especially in lightening services.
2. A Greasy Scalp Doesn’t Mean Protection
While a little natural oil is okay, excessively oily hair can affect how evenly colour processes at the root—and nobody wants patchy colour. Plus, colourists spend more time working through the grime instead of focusing on precision and technique.
3. Scalp Health Matters
We work closely to your scalp during applications, and dirty hair can cause irritation, itchiness, or even discomfort—especially during lightening or foil services. Clean hair = happy scalp = better service.
4. Root Concealer Sprays Can Block Colour
This one’s big: if you use root-touch up sprays or powders between appointments, it’s crucial to wash them out before your colour session. These products are designed to coat the hair shaft and cover grey, which is great in the short term—but they act like a barrier and prevent colour from fully absorbing into the hair, especially at the roots. The result? Uneven coverage and stubborn greys that don't lift or deposit the way we want them to.
If you’re covering greys at home, make sure to shampoo thoroughly the night before and let your stylist know—it helps us plan better.
5. Your Colourist Needs a Clear Canvas
Would you paint a masterpiece on a dirty wall? Neither would we. Clean, dry hair (washed 24–48 hours prior with minimal product use) helps us see your natural colour, texture, and tone—giving you the best possible result.
So… What’s the Ideal Prep?
✔️ Wash your hair a day or two beforehand (unless otherwise directed)
✔️ Avoid heavy styling products, oils, and dry shampoo
✔️ Definitely remove any root-concealing sprays or powders
✔️ Come with dry hair unless instructed otherwise—wet hair can dilute colour
Trust the Process (and Your Stylist)
Every colourist at Thatch & Fringe is trained in the latest techniques, and we always consider your hair’s health first. If we need your hair to be dirty, we’ll tell you. Otherwise, let’s start with a fresh (but not squeaky-clean) base.
If you're ever unsure, just ask—we’re here to take the guesswork out of great hair.
