Does Color Hair Spray Wash Out?

Color hair sprays are a popular temporary hair coloring option that allow you to experiment with fun colors without a long-term commitment. But an important question is – does the color wash back out, and how long does it last? Here’s what you need to know about how color hair sprays work and how long they last.

What is Color Hair Spray?

• Color hair sprays, also called temporary hair color sprays, are quick and easy to apply hair makeup products.

• They coat the outer layer of your hair strands with temporary pigment.

• Color hair sprays come in a wide range of fashion shades like pink, blue, purple, and more.

• The formulas are non-damaging since they don’t penetrate the hair shaft.

• Most temporary sprays are made to wash out in just 1-2 shampoos.

How Does Color Hair Spray Work?

• Temporary hair color sprays work by depositing colored pigments onto the outer cuticle layer of your hair.

• The pigments adhere to the hair strands without actually penetrating the shaft.

• When you shampoo, the combination of water and cleansing agents causes the color particles to break down and wash away.

• Because color sprays don’t chemically alter the hair, they cause no damage and wash out cleanly.

Does Color Hair Spray Wash Out?

• Yes, temporary color hair sprays are designed to completely wash out of hair, usually within 1-2 shampoos.

• However, the exact wash out time can vary based on:

  • Your hair type and texture

  • How thoroughly you rinse the spray out

  • The color shade you choose

  • How much product you apply

• Dark, vivid shades may take a few more washes to completely fade.

• Using a clarifying shampoo can help speed up the wash out process.

• Most color sprays will wash out eventually with regular shampooing.

How Long Does Color Hair Spray Last?

• On average, temporary color hair sprays last 1-3 shampoos, or about 1-7 days depending on your washing frequency.

• Lighter, more subtle shades tend to wash out quicker in just 1-2 shampoos.

• Dark, bold shades have more staining power so they can linger for up to 5-7 washes.

• Avoid washing hair daily or using hot water to make the color last longer.

• Heat from blow drying and styling can also accelerate fading.

Tips for Using Color Hair Spray

Follow these tips to get the most out of your temporary color hair spray:

• Shake the can well before spraying onto clean, dry hair.

• Apply lighter coats and build up color gradually for more control.

• Allow the spray to dry completely between coats to prevent uneven application.

• Use petroleum jelly around hairline and ears to avoid staining skin.

• Sleep in a shower cap to avoid rubbing off color onto bedding.

• Switch to sulfate-free shampoo and cold water washes to extend wear time.

• Use a clarifying shampoo to remove stubborn remnants of color.

The Bottom Line

Temporary color hair sprays offer a fun, commitment-free way to try out trendy hair hues. The color is designed to wash away in just a couple shampoos, though darker shades may take a few extra washes to completely fade. With proper application and removal, color sprays can add temporary pops of color without damaging your strands!