Whether you have your hair professionally colored or you use home hair coloring kits, you want to make your hair color last as long as possible.

There are several things you can do to maximize your newly colored tresses so your beautiful new hue remains gorgeous and vibrant as long as possible.

Listed below are several techniques you can try for finding a great hair color you will love:

1) Select a hair coloring product that is most compatible with your life style. If you don't have time to update your roots every 4-6 weeks, you may want to select a shade of hair color only 1-3 shades lighter than your natural color. The closer you stay to your natural hair color, the less your roots will show as they start to peek through.

When your roots are less obvious, your hair color will last longer before you have to touch up your roots. It is always best to select the type of coloring product that is easiest for you to maintain.

2) Apply a deep conditioning treatment to your hair a few days before coloring. The better conditioned your hair is, the easier the color will take and the longer it will last. Recently conditioned hair will also be softer and shinier. As an extra bonus, a deep conditioner will protect your hair against any possible damage from the color chemicals.

3) It is best to apply hair color to "aged hair" Wait at least 24 or 48 hours before applying color products. The natural hair oils will assist in making the color application more successful. The color will cling better to hair that is not dry.