Cheryl Nishi, Director of Education for Matrix, has answers your most pressing questions about hair color.

What are the major differences between a rinse and a regular color treatment?

A temporary color (like a rinse) lasts from shampoo to shampoo, a semi permanent typically lasts 8-10 shampoos. A semi permanent is more long lasting, and a permanent color service, is, well, permanent. Your colorist will know the differences and will know what to recommend for the results that you want to achieve.

How is an at-home color system different from the products used in salons?

In the salon, you have the stylist to guide you and you have the advantage of their advice, training and experience. I would not recommend home hair color because there is so much to know about color. Go to a salon and take advantage of their expertise – pamper yourself and know with confidence that you will leave with an amazing color service!

What is your favorite color system?

As a salon professional, I love Matrix SoColor because it offers a complete shade range for maximum creativity. It’s easy to formulate and I have three shade collections to choose from-the Blended Collection, the Reflect Collection and the Specialty Collection. Color Sync is another favorite –I love to refresh my color with this because it leaves my hair with ultra shine and rich, vibrant color. Ask your stylist what works best for you.

How long should someone wait between color treatments?

Depending on the color service, you will need to see your stylist every 3 weeks if you have a high maintenance color such as a double processed blonde. If you see your stylist every 4 weeks, you will have many color options because you are willing to commit to a fairly high maintenance schedule. If you stay within 2-3 levels of the natural color you will need to see your stylist every 6 weeks to avoid deep contrast in regrowth. If you choose to stay within 1 level of the natural color or choose a dimensional effect, every 8 weeks you will need to visit your stylist. If you have dimensional color, see your stylist every 12 weeks.

What’s the best way to keep up your color between visits?

Make sure to use a shampoo and conditioner designed for color treated hair. Biolage colorcaretherapie is a great choice. Keep the hair in good condition and use professional products to maintain healthy shiny hair that always looks good.

What should someone do if they dislike their new salon color?

The secret to a successful color service starts with the consultation. Make sure you communicate clearly with your stylist to let them know what results you are expecting. Ask to see magazines or look books and even bring in pictures to show them what shade you are looking for. A picture is worth…well you know the story! If for some reason you are not happy with your color, speak with the stylist and let them know your concerns. They want you to be happy with your color, and will work with you to make any adjustments.

How easy is it to fix “mis-colored” hair?

It depends on the corrective color situation – some instances are quick fixes, such as adjusting the tone, or sometimes it can be more complex. Look for a stylist that specializes in color correction and set up time for a consultation. Ask about pricing to avoid any surprises, although it varies from salon to salon and according to region.

In your opinion, which celebrities have the most envious hair color?



Marcia Cross is a classic, vibrant redhead. Gwen Stefani is a style icon-perfect as the platinum blonde and, as for brunettes, Katie Holmes has a rich beautiful color. Victoria Beckham has a great look, too.

A lot of celebrities are letting their dark roots show – do you think this trend will catch on?

It’s a trend that comes and goes and we have seen many variations on this over the years. If you are going for a natural look, if the hair is slightly darker at the roots, it can be a good way to add depth and interest to your hair. If you have an elegant platinum blonde, you must go to the salon for your retouch – dark roots would not be good in that case.

-India-Jewel Jackson

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