What Really Happens During a Hair Color Service at LAHH Salon

Last week a client asked me, “Emily, what actually happens when I book a color service? Is it just painting hair with dye?” I had to smile because I hear that all the time. Coloring hair is part science, part artistry, and a lot of personalization. Since so many of our Bay Harbor Islands clients wonder the same thing, I thought I’d explain it in simple, honest terms.

It All Starts with a Real Conversation

When you sit in my chair at LAHH Salon, the first thing we do isn’t grab a brush. We talk. I’ll ask about your lifestyle, how much time you spend styling, and whether you’re in the sun often. Living near Miami Beach means strong rays that can change how color fades. This part of the process matters more than people realize. The same shade that looks amazing on someone who spends most days indoors can fade differently on someone always out by the water.

We’ll also look at photos together. Some clients walk in with a very clear idea, others just know what they don’t want. Either way, we get on the same page before anything gets mixed.

The Science Behind the Bowl

Here’s something most people don’t think about: hair color is chemistry. The formula has to match your natural undertone, previous color history, and the current condition of your hair. If you’ve been coloring at home, I’ll need to factor that in before applying a new shade. That’s why a professional salon color service is nothing like picking up a box dye at the store.

At LAHH Salon we use professional-grade products that protect and nourish while processing. They don’t just deposit pigment. They work with your hair’s structure so the result is shiny, dimensional, and healthy looking.

What the Process Looks Like

Depending on the service you booked, things can look a little different. Here are a few examples:

• Single-process color: A consistent shade from roots to ends. Great for covering gray or refreshing faded tones.
• Highlights or balayage: These add brightness and movement. We section carefully so the placement flatters your haircut and face shape.
• Toning and glossing: These act like polish at the end. They remove brassiness or add shine and depth.

During the service, I’ll keep an eye on processing time. You might see me peek under foils or adjust the heat. It’s all about keeping things even and protecting your hair.

Why Professional Color Lasts Longer

A question I hear all the time is, “Why does my color fade so fast at home?” The truth is, professional application isn’t only about applying the product. It’s about sealing it in. At LAHH Salon we always finish with a treatment that locks in pigment and restores moisture. Many of our Bay Harbor Islands clients stop by after work near the Branch Library, and I always remind them to allow a little extra time for this step. It makes a huge difference in how long your color lasts.

At-home dyes usually skip that part, which is why color tends to wash out quickly and leave hair feeling dry. A salon visit is an investment, but it keeps your hair healthier over time.

Stylist Secrets Clients Love

Here are a few tips I always share in the chair:

1. Wait at least 48 hours before shampooing after a color service. Pigments need time to settle.
2. Use a sulfate-free shampoo made for color-treated hair. It truly helps color stay vibrant.
3. Book a gloss or toner refresh between major appointments. It’s a quick way to keep hair bright and shiny.

And here’s a big one: protect your hair from heat and sun. Florida’s UV rays are no joke. A leave-in with UV protection can make all the difference.

Cross-Service Benefits

Pairing your color with a Styling & Blow Dry session completely changes how your shade looks. A professional blowout smooths the cuticle so light reflects evenly, making your color pop. Many of my clients add this on for a big event, but plenty do it just because it feels good to walk out polished and confident.

A Client Story from Right Here in Bay Harbor Islands

One of my favorite clients came in last month frustrated that her highlights always looked brassy after a few weeks. She spends most afternoons walking downtown by the water, so I explained how UV exposure was affecting her color. We adjusted her formula, added a gloss, and finished with a conditioning treatment. Six weeks later she came back glowing. Her color held beautifully, and more importantly, she finally felt confident that it would last with her lifestyle. That’s the kind of personalization you don’t get at a chain salon.

Ready for Your Own Color Service?

If you’ve been thinking about refreshing your look or fixing a shade that doesn’t feel right, book a professional color service with me at LAHH Salon. We’re at 1090 Kane Concourse Unit B, Bay Harbor Islands, FL 33154, right near the Bay Harbor Islands Branch Library. Call us at (305) 877-7706 or book online here. Let’s find a color that fits your lifestyle and makes you feel amazing every single day.