Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.
In this edition, founder of Ffp Hair Salon Brandon Ng gives his expert advice on hair colouring and maintenance.
How do I know which hair colour suits my skin tone? – Kelly, Bangsar
I think this is quite a tricky question. Usually, I’ll check with the client on their daily style – how they dress, and whether they wear makeup often.
It’s not just about skin tone; the colours of their clothing and the makeup they use can really affect how a hair colour looks on them and complements their overall appearance.
That’s why a good consultation is always important before any hair colour service.
How long does the vibrancy of hair colour usually last? – Rozana, Shah Alam
Normally, hair colour lasts around two to four weeks, but it really depends on your lifestyle and daily routine. Many factors can cause colour to fade faster or hair to become dry and frizzy.
Frequent use of heated styling tools can accelerate colour fading and damage the hair due to high temperatures.
For those who are often outdoors, prolonged sun exposure, as well as swimming in pools or seawater, can also cause hair colour to fade more quickly.
Using proper salon professional products, such as shampoo, conditioner, serum and heat protectors is essential for daily care. It helps maintain your hair colour for longer, keeping it vibrant, healthy and smooth.
Will colouring my hair damage it permanently? And how do I care for my hair/scalp after colouring? – Charlene, Subang
Hair colouring does cause some level of damage, but it’s usually minimal and mostly affects the hair cuticle.
The level of damage can be higher if bleaching is involved or if the hair has been previously permed.
To maintain healthy hair, we always recommend following up with a proper hair treatment after colouring. This helps restore moisture and replenish keratin, improving overall hair strength and texture.
For scalp care, it’s best to do a scalp treatment or head spa a few days after your colouring service.
Treatments like scalp detox and anti-ageing are designed to deeply cleanse, reduce itchiness and dandruff caused by dryness, and most importantly, improve blood circulation – creating a healthier environment for hair growth.
Can I colour my hair if it’s already dry or damaged? Why or why not? – YL, Kuching
Yes, but it really depends on the condition.
For bleached hair, going slightly darker is always a better choice.
Darker tones help the hair look healthier, while overly bright or brassy blondes can make dryness and frizz more obvious.
If the hair is already too brittle, it’s best to pause on colouring, the colour won’t hold well anyway.
Focus on treatments first to restore strength and moisture. Healthy hair always looks better than just “coloured” hair.
How often is it safe to colour or touch up my hair? – Hanna, Johor
These days, hair products are safer, smarter and way more refined than before.
Root touch-ups? Grey coverage? You can comfortably do it as early as every three weeks without compromising your hair’s condition, as long as it’s done right.
Funny thing is... people were already touching up their greys every two to three weeks back in the day – just without the technology we have now.
What’s the difference between highlights, balayage and full colour? – Rebecca, PJ
Highlights means lighter pieces placed in between darker hair to create contrast and dimension.
It is usually done with foils in sections or panels.
Meanwhile balayage is a French technique meaning “to sweep” or “paint”.
Colour is hand-painted to create a soft, natural gradient from darker roots to lighter ends, often seen in ombre styles.
On the other hand full colour means consistent tone applied across the entire head. Clean, even and classic.
Do I need to bleach my hair to get a lighter shade and is this safe for the scalp? – Deepa, Ampang
To achieve lighter tones, pre-lightening (bleaching) is essential.
Think of it this way: if you apply colour on a white paper vs a black paper, the white will always show the true colour better. Same goes for hair.
Is bleaching safe? Yes, when it’s done properly with the right measurements, technique and care.
We also limit to only one scalp bleach per day to protect the scalp and hair condition.
Before any service begins, a patch test is important to check for skin sensitivity and ensure the client is comfortable with the products used.
Read more: Not long, not short: Mid-length hair is the most wearable beauty trend right now
Can I swim in a pool or the sea after colouring my hair? How long do I have to wait before doing this? – Lyn, Sunway
Yes, you can swim after colouring your hair – both in the pool and the sea.
But here’s the truth most people skip: chlorine and saltwater will start fading your colour the moment your hair hits the water.
Not “after a few swims”, literally from the first dip. It can also leave your hair feeling dry, rough and less vibrant.
If you want your colour to stay fresh, glossy and longer-lasting, it’s best to avoid swimming altogether, no matter how soon or how long.
What ingredients should I avoid in shampoos if I want my colour to last? – Sarah, Damansara
If you’ve invested in hair colour, don’t sabotage it with the wrong shampoo.
Try getting your shampoo directly from the salon, these are usually more tailored for coloured hair.
Off-the-shelf products (like supermarket buys) can contain higher levels of sulfates, parabens or silicones, which may strip colour faster or dry your hair out.
I’m not saying those ingredients are 100% avoidable – but the difference is how they’re used and balanced.
The real win? Your hairdresser can recommend the right shampoo based on your hair condition, colour, and routine – so you’re not just guessing.
Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert at lifestyle@thestar.com.my. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.
