How Long Does Hair Chalk Last? Tips on How to Prolong Color
How Long Does Hair Chalk Last? Tips on How to Prolong Color
How long does hair chalk last? Does hair chalk wash out easily?
Colored chalk offers a non-toxic, no-damage hair color alternative to permanent hair dye, but the fun of chalking on hair can be pretty short-lived.
In this discussion, I will help you uncover the longevity secrets of chalked hair color so you can enjoy its vibrant hues for a long time.
Read on to enjoy your hair chalks' dye job longer!
How Long Does Hair Chalk Last?
Hair chalk, being a temporary hair color option, typically lasts for a few washes. The vibrant colors provide fun pops of instant color that can add excitement to your look for a few hours or a day.
The longevity varies based on several factors, such as the porosity of the hair shaft and the specific hair chalk colors used.
Proper care, including gentle washing and avoiding excessive friction, can keep the colors for a more extended period.
What are Factors That Affect Hair Chalk Longevity?
In this section, we will discuss the various factors that can affect how long hair chalks stick around.
Hair Chalk Product Type
The hair chalk products you choose, their quality, and how you apply them onto your hair play a big role in color retention.
First, if you are wondering whether to apply the chalk to dry or wet hair, I suggest going with dry hair. It can help the chalk stick better, whereas wet hair can make the entire process messy.
(You can also use hair chalks on damp hair, but use a hair dryer to set the pigment.)
Next, be warned that low-quality hair chalks may not contain as much pigment as high-quality ones, which can result in faster fading. They may also be more difficult to apply and remove.
When choosing hair chalks, go with a REPUTABLE brand. They typically use quality ingredients and manufacture products that are designed to last.
The type of hair chalks you use also matter when longevity is concerned. Let us discuss how each variant lasts in detail!
Hair Chalk Stick
Sticks are the most common type of hair chalk, and they are also the most affordable. However, they also have a limited staying power, lasting only about 1 to 3 days.
Hair Chalk Pen
Hair chalk pens are similar to sticks, but they are easier to apply and allow for more precision. This similarly lasts as sticks for about 1 to 3 days.
Hair Chalk Spray
Hair chalk spray is one of the quickest and easiest to apply among these hair chalk product types. They also provide the shortest expectancy, lasting only about 1 day on the hair (2 days if you are lucky).
Hair Chalk Compact
Hair chalk compacts are also similar to sticks and pens, but they are more portable and easier to store. Similar to the other two variants, these can also last about 1 to 3 days.
Hair Chalk Comb
Hair chalk combs are designed to be easy to apply and distribute evenly throughout the hair, and can stay for about 1 to 3 days.
Liquid Hair Chalk
Liquid hair chalk (applied with a brush or sponge) is the longest-lasting type of hair chalk. Its longevity spans anywhere from 2 to 10 days, depending on the specific product and hair type.
It tends to have better staying power than other formulas because it grips to the hair shaft more effectively.
Hair Type and Color
Does hair chalk work on dark hair or even black hair? Yes, it does! All hair chalk formulas can be used on different hair colors, from blonde hair to black hair. You just need to apply them according to your hair type and color to make the most out of the product.
How about liquid hair chalk on natural hair? Yes, it also works! While it can seem tricky, there are ways to get liquid chalk to show up effectively and vibrantly on natural hair.
Many factors can be considered when answering the question, "How long does hair chalk last on brunettes, blondes, or redheads?" This can depend on the formula of your product and the application process you follow to get the chalk onto the hair.
Hair chalk colors are affected by the base hair color in the following ways:
- Lighter Hair - Temporary hair chalk color appears to last longer on lighter hair than on dark hair. This is because light hair has less pigment, which allows the chalk to show through more easily. In terms of vibrancy, shades are brighter on blonde or light hair (including light brown hair) for the same reason.
- Darker Hair - Dark hair has more pigment, which can make it more difficult for the chalk to show through, which may indicate that it sticks less. Hair chalks are also less vibrant on dark hair and usually take on a soft color effect.
Longevity is also affected by hair types:
- Straight Hair - Hair chalks tend to last longer on straight hair than on curly or textured hair because it is easier to manage, which can keep the pigment on the hair and avoid fading. Additionally, straight hair is less likely to get tangled, which can also help to preserve the color.
- Curly and Textured Hair - Chalks tend to fade more quickly on curly and textured hair as this hair type is more difficult to comb and style, which can cause the chalk to rub off.
Hair Condition and Porosity
Damaged or porous hair may hold the pigments in a temporary hair color chalk differently than healthy hair.
Damaged hair has open cuticles which allow hair chalk to penetrate more easily. However, it is also more likely to FADE QUICKLY, as the open cuticles allow the hair chalk's pigment to be washed off.
Porous hair, on the other hand, has naturally open cuticles. It similarly absorbs hair chalk more quickly than healthy hair, but it is more likely to lighten faster.
A deep conditioning treatment that introduces moisture to the hair is a helpful solution, but be careful NOT to overdo it because it can strip out the hair's natural oils that seal in the chalk’s pigment.
How to Apply Hair Chalk?
Knowing how to use hair chalk is essential. As mentioned, applying hair chalk properly plays a key role in color retention as different techniques will result in different outcomes.
While it is suggested to follow the manufacturer's directions for best results, know that not every product comes with specific instructions.
Below is my proven-and-tested method that can work pretty much with any hair chalk option:
- First, wear gloves and old clothes as hair chalk applications can be messy.
- Next, section your hair to apply the product evenly.
- Now, rub the chalk into your hair. Dry or damp hair is preferred, and not wet. You may use a spray bottle to dampen your hair slightly. Make sure to make the coverage even.
- Style as usual. You can blow dry your hair and use a curling iron or a hair straightener but be gentle to keep the pigments intact.
Seal it with some hairspray to prevent the hair color chalk from fading too quickly.
Tips to Prolong Hair Chalk Color
Before applying the temporary color, remove knots to ensure even coverage.
To prolong the vibrancy of hair chalk, make sure you are applying the chalk to damp or dry hair strands rather than a dripping wet mane.
Rub the product evenly. After applying, let your hair air dry to minimize color loss.
Another tip is to use dry shampoo between washes. When you wash your hair, AVOID using a clarifying shampoo as it strips away the chalk.
Protect your vibrant hues by avoiding EXCESSIVE HEAT; if needed, use a blow dryer on a cool setting.
Additionally, a touch-up here and there can refresh hair color and maintain its vibrancy. Use a hair spray to set the color and prevent rubbing off.
Key Takeaways on How Long Hair Chalk Lasts
Remember that the lifespan of temporary hair colors from hair chalks can last a few hours to several days.
Colored hair from these products easily washes away from hair strands if they are not handled with care. If you are using hair chalk for kids, it can last longer if they are not too fussy with their hair.
Some helpful tips include ensuring hair has proper moisture content prior to application and using hair spray as these can extend the wear of hair chalks.
Additionally, different factors influence longevity. Blonde hair, for example, is MORE EFFECTIVE for a greater spectrum of shades than dark hair as light color reveals more pigment.
Wishing you well in prolonging your hair’s vibrant hues!