There's a week every fall in Springfield when it happens. The heat clicks on, the scarves come out, you're blow-drying again because nobody wants to walk to the car with wet hair in October, and suddenly your color looks a little tired. That gorgeous shade from August? It's starting to look flat.

The good news is that a few small habits make a real difference, and none of them mean buying a cabinet full of new stuff. Here's what the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends, plus a little booking advice for the season.

Shampoo your scalp, not your ends

This one surprises people. The AAD says to put shampoo on your scalp instead of the entire length of your hair. Your scalp is where the oil is. Your ends get cleaned as the suds rinse through. Scrubbing the full length every wash dries hair out, and dry hair is the kind that looks faded fastest.

How often you wash matters too. The AAD says to wash based on how often your hair gets dirty or oily. If your hair is dry, curly, textured or thick, you probably don't need to wash nearly as often as you think.

Condition like you mean it

If your hair is dry or curly, the AAD suggests conditioner on the whole length, not just the ends. Fine or straight hair can stick to the ends. Either way, pick products made for your hair type.

After the shower, skip the rough towel rub. Wrap your hair in a towel and let it soak up the water, then detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb.

Be kind with the heat tools

This is the big one for fall. Blow dryers, flat irons and curling irons all come out more once it's cold, and the AAD is clear that too much heat can damage hair. Their advice: use low or medium settings and a product that protects your hair from the heat.

A little trick for chilly mornings: wash at night, let it air-dry a bit, and finish in the morning on a lower setting. Your hair (and your color) will thank you.

Don't forget the sun just because it's cold

The AAD says the sun can make hair weak, dry, faded and brittle, and the risk is greater for hair that's been dyed, bleached or permed. Fall in the 413 still has plenty of bright days, from apple picking to a long walk through Forest Park. A broad-brimmed hat isn't only for the beach.

Thinking about going lighter for winter?

If you're tempted to switch things up, here's something worth knowing before you book. The AAD recommends staying within three shades of your natural color, and says going darker is gentler than going lighter, because lightening further takes stronger peroxide. If you want a big change, talk it through with your colorist first. A good one will tell you what your hair can handle.

And if you color at home, the AAD says to test the dye first and follow the directions on the box. If you get redness, swelling, burning or itching, don't keep dyeing, and see a dermatologist.

Get on the calendar early

The holidays sneak up fast. If you want fresh color for Thanksgiving photos or a December party, it's smart to book ahead, especially with a stylist you love who stays busy.

You can browse hair salons in Springfield on The Town Pros. There are dozens of local stylists listed, from full-service salons to braiding studios, and you call or book with them directly.

Find your person, treat your color gently, and it'll carry you right through to spring.

Common questions

How often should I wash color-treated hair?

The American Academy of Dermatology says to wash based on how oily your hair gets. Dry, curly or thick hair usually needs washing less often than fine or oily hair.

Is it better to go lighter or darker?

The AAD says dyeing darker is gentler than going lighter, and recommends staying within three shades of your natural color.

What if my scalp reacts to hair dye?

If you get redness, swelling, burning or itching, stop and see a dermatologist before you dye again.

This guide is general information, not professional advice. For scalp or skin problems, see a dermatologist.

Sources