Megan Nelson: HAIRSTYLIST: July 2009

Nine Easy Tips to Recession-Proof Your Hair

It probably comes as no surprise that colorists are seeing their clients with longer stretches of time between appointments. Could it have a direct correlation with the sagging economy? Um, yeah! Fortunately, colorist Debi Dumas of Jim Wayne Salon in Beverly Hills shared a few ways to make your professional hair color last longer — and save a few bucks along the way.

Dumas, who has worked with the likes of Ali Landry, Robin Wright Penn, and Mischa Barton, says these days it's chic to save money. Even in posh Beverly Hills, she says, "people are looking at ways to cut back." For her tips on giving your color a boost without breaking the bank, read more.

Time is money. The more time booked out for your stylist, the more you'll pay for his or her time and products used. "Honesty is the first key," Debi says. Let your stylist know what you are able to pay and how often you'll be able to come in for color services.
Color only areas that show. Unless your hair is short or you're pulling it back in a way that would reveal roots, there is no reason to color the inside back of your hair. If you're going from a darker color to a lighter color (brown to blond), think about a getting a root touch-up only around your part and around the hairline. This "secret" could save you upwards of 50 percent!
Go multitonal. If you are getting highlights with one shade, ask your colorist to put several tones in. "It grows out more gently," Debi says. Creating more dimension in the hair will allow you to stretch out your time in between salon visits.
Get washed. If your roots aren't showing, but your color is looking dull (especially for redheads), get a color wash. It takes only about 15 minutes and runs about half of the cost. Your color will be brighter and refreshed.
Deep condition. "Moisture penetrates into your hair," Debi says. "That helps keep color from slipping out." To elongate time in between services, wrap a warm damp towel around your hair and let the conditioner work its magic.
Don't go too wild. "Stick with a color closest to your natural hair," Debi says. It might seem obvious, but it works.
Wash hair less often. The more you shampoo, the more chance you are allowing artificial pigments to lift out. Avoid chlorine and cheap shampoos and conditioners, which are too detergent-like and harsh.
Buy more, get more. Invest in larger sizes of professional products. "You'll save a tremendous amount if you buy the bigger ones," Debi says. Plus, most of the products are stabilized and are manufactured to last.
Get boxed in. If you cannot afford salon products, think about purchasing over-the-counter products from the same company. L'Oreal, for instance, has its professional line plus a drugstore variety. Borrowed FROM: www.bellasugar.com/1892201