How does a highly alkaline shampoo affect tinted hair?

A highly alkaline shampoo has a significant impact on tinted hair primarily because it raises the pH level of the hair's cuticle layer. When the cuticle is raised, the hair becomes more porous, which allows for the leaching of color molecules. This permeability results in faster color fading as the pigments are washed out more easily. Additionally, alkaline products can strip the hair of its natural oils and can disrupt the moisture balance, further diminishing the vibrancy and longevity of the hair color.

In contrast to enhancing color vibrancy, making hair more manageable, or deep cleaning the hair, the primary effect of a highly alkaline shampoo on tinted hair is detrimental to color retention. Proper pH balance is essential for maintaining the integrity of colored hair, and using products that are too alkaline can severely compromise that balance.