Learn essential post hair colouring steps every professional hairdresser must follow. From styling and home care advice to client retention tips, this VC Academy guide helps elevate salon expertise.
Beyond the Colour Chair: Essential Post Hair Colouring Steps Every Professional Must Follow
Hair colouring doesn’t end when the foils come off or the final rinse is done.
For a true professional, the real value lies in what happens after the colour service.
At VC Academy, we believe post-colour care is where expertise, communication, and client trust truly shine. Here’s a practical, professional checklist every hair artist should follow before the client walks out of the salon.
1. Finish Strong with the Right Styling
A colour service is incomplete without a proper finish. Styling the hair after colouring allows you to:
- Showcase the colour in its best light
- Balance tones, texture, and movement
- Identify and correct any last-minute refinements
This is also the moment to involve the client. Understand how they usually style their hair and adapt the finish accordingly. Share simple styling tips they can recreate at home—this builds confidence and satisfaction.
Pro tip:
Use this opportunity to recommend future services such as a precision cut, glossing, or creative styling. Strong communication here directly impacts repeat visits and client loyalty.
2. Educate Them with a Clear Home Care Brief
One of the most important responsibilities of a hair professional is education.
Coloured hair requires care, and while clients may find generic advice online, your guidance should be personalised to the service you’ve performed.
Make sure to explain:
- What to do and what to avoid post-colouring
- How often to wash and condition
- Heat styling precautions
- Sun and chlorine protection
Recommend professional products that support colour longevity and hair health. Also, be honest about tools they should limit or use carefully.
Remember: informed clients are happier clients—and their colour lasts longer.
3. Guide Them on What Comes Next
Clients often leave with unasked questions:
- When should I refresh my colour?
- How long will this shade last?
- Do I need treatments in between?
Answer these proactively. Educate them on:
- Ideal timelines for colour refresh
- Treatments that maintain strength and shine
- When a new colour service is safe
Whenever possible, help them pre-book their next appointment. This reinforces professionalism and improves retention.
4. Be Transparent About Costs
Professionalism also means clarity.
Before the client leaves:
- Explain approximate costs for colour refreshes and treatments
- Share product pricing and how long each product typically lasts
- Set realistic expectations—no surprises later
Transparency builds trust, and trust builds long-term relationships.
Final Thought from VC Academy
Great hair colouring is not just about technique—it’s about experience, education, and aftercare.
When you master what happens after the service, you don’t just create beautiful hair—you create loyal clients.
At VC Academy, we train artists to think beyond the chair and step into true professional excellence.
