Wait at least 48 to 72 hours (2 to 3 days) after getting highlights before washing your hair. This waiting period allows the hair cuticles to fully close and helps the color molecules set more deeply into the hair shaft, resulting in longer-lasting color and better vibrancy.
During this initial period, avoid hot water, which can open the cuticles and cause color to escape. When you do wash, use lukewarm or cool water instead. Additionally, use color-safe or sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, as these are gentler and won't strip away the color treatment as quickly as regular shampoos.
After the initial waiting period, continue to care for highlighted hair carefully: wash in cool water, limit washing frequency to 2-3 times per week if possible, and use deep conditioning treatments regularly. Some stylists recommend waiting even longer—up to a full week—for maximum color retention, though 48-72 hours is the widely accepted minimum. If your highlights used ammonia-free or semi-permanent formulas, you might have slightly more flexibility, but waiting the full period is still recommended for best results.
Heavy exercise or activities that cause sweating should also be avoided during the first 48-72 hours, as sweat can interact with the color and cause uneven fading or oxidation.