How Long Should You Wait to Wash Your Hair After Getting Highlights?

Let me tell you about the time I was too impatient…

So picture this: I’m fresh out of the salon, rocking honey-blonde ribbons that had me feeling like Beyoncé in a shampoo commercial. I strutted home, feeling myself—until I did the unthinkable. I washed my hair… the next morning.

Yep. I lathered up with my usual (sulfate-filled) shampoo and let those golden highlights swirl right down the drain. Major facepalm. Since then, I’ve learned my lesson the hard way—and now, as a licensed esthetician who’s worked behind the chair and in the lab—I’m here to save you from making my rookie mistake.

So, how long should you wait to wash your hair after getting highlights? Buckle up, friend—we’re about to break it all down, root to tip.

How long should you wait to wash your hair after getting highlights?

Here’s the no-nonsense answer: you should wait at least 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair after getting highlights. Why? Because the hair cuticle needs time to close and lock in the toner or color pigment.

When you highlight your hair, it’s usually bleached first—this opens up the hair shaft. If you shampoo too soon, you’re basically rinsing out all that expensive salon magic before it has time to set. Think of it like painting your nails and then doing dishes right after. Not cute.

Waiting those 2–3 days lets your hair recover, seal in the tone, and maintain moisture—so your highlights stay poppin’ and don’t turn brassy or dull.

Can I get my hair wet after getting highlights?

Ah, the age-old question. Wetting your hair isn’t exactly the same as washing it—but there’s still a catch.

While a little water from the shower or a steamy bathroom won’t destroy your highlights, you should avoid soaking your hair for those first 48–72 hours. Even plain water can mess with your pH and affect how well your toner sticks.

If you really need to shower, try a cute shower cap or pin your hair up. And no, spritzing it just to style it better isn’t worth it. 

The goal is to let your hair breathe and rest after the chemical process—it’s been through enough, girl.

What not to do after getting highlights?

Alright, here’s the honest tea. Your fresh highlights are basically like a new tattoo—handle with care! Here’s what you shouldn’t do right after leaving the salon:

First off, don’t use harsh shampoos with sulfates or clarifying agents. They’re basically bleach’s evil cousins, stripping away everything you just paid for. Instead, reach for color-safe or sulfate-free formulas.

Second, don’t heat style immediately. Your hair’s fragile, and blasting it with a flat iron or curling wand just adds more stress. If you absolutely have to, use a solid heat protectant and keep the temp low.

And please, for the love of balayage, don’t go swimming. Chlorine and saltwater will wreck your highlights faster than you can say “toner fade.”

Can I wash my hair 24 hours after bleaching?

You could… but should you? Nope.

Bleaching is like giving your hair a chemical workout. It lifts the pigment out and leaves your strands porous, dry, and vulnerable. 

Washing just 24 hours after bleaching is like hitting the gym right after getting your brows microbladed—bad idea.

You need to let your scalp and strands chill. Washing too soon could strip out the toner or make your hair feel like straw. Stick to that 48–72 hour window, and your future self (and stylist) will thank you.

How to Make the Most of How Long Should You Wait to Wash Your Hair After Getting Highlights

Okay, so you’ve survived the wait—now what? Once the 2–3 day mark hits, it’s go-time, but how you wash matters more than you think.

Start with a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo. These are gentler and help preserve pigment. I personally swear by formulas that include keratin, amino acids, or botanical oils—bonus points if it smells like a tropical vacation.

When you rinse, keep the water lukewarm at most. Hot water opens the cuticle (again!) and lets color sneak out. Warm is fine for washing, but always finish with a cool rinse to seal the deal.

Massage gently, don’t scrub. Highlighted hair doesn’t need rough love. And towel-dry with a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt. No vigorous rubbing, unless you’re trying to bring back the frizz of 2006.

Finally, apply a leave-in conditioner or serum that’s made for color-treated hair. This gives hydration, UV protection, and a little extra TLC to help your highlights stay snatched.

Highlight Hack Recap (A Quick Table)

FAQs About Washing Highlighted Hair

Can I use dry shampoo instead of washing?

Yes, queen! Dry shampoo is your new BFF. Especially during that 48–72 hour window, it helps soak up oil and keep things fresh. Just don’t go overboard—it’s a temporary fix, not a full-on shower replacement.

What happens if I accidentally washed too soon?

Don’t panic—it’s not the end of the world. But you might notice your toner fading faster, brassiness sneaking in, or your hair feeling drier. The fix? Use a purple or blue shampoo (depending on your tone), deep condition, and avoid further damage with heat tools for a bit.

How often should I wash my hair after the wait?

Ideally, 2–3 times a week max. The less you wash, the longer your highlights last. If your roots get greasy, try alternating with co-washing or dry shampoo. The goal is balance, not over-cleansing.

Can I oil my hair during the no-wash period?

Great question! Light oils like argan or jojoba can actually help your strands stay nourished while you wait. Just avoid anything too heavy near the roots, and keep it off the scalp until wash day rolls around.

Final Scoop Before You Jump In

Listen—how long should you wait to wash your hair after getting highlights isn’t just a cute question. It’s the key to keeping your color salon-fresh and your strands healthy.

Personally, waiting those 2–3 days has become a mini self-care ritual for me. I light a candle, slap on a face mask, and let my hair chill in its full highlighted glory. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Your highlights deserve a soft life. Treat them well, and they’ll keep turning heads. Stay golden, babe.