No, color-treated hair and bleached hair are not the same. Bleaching is a lightening process that strips hair of its natural pigment, while coloring adds pigment. You can color hair without bleaching, but often bleaching is a necessary step to achieve lighter or brighter colors.

The best thing for color-treated hair is using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products help to gently cleanse without stripping color and often contain ingredients to help protect and hydrate the hair.

Avoid using products containing sulfates, alcohol, and harsh detergents on color-treated hair, as they can strip the color and dry out the hair. Also, limit the use of heat styling tools and always apply a heat protectant before use.

The longevity of color-treated hair varies depending on the color, hair type, and aftercare. Generally, permanent hair color can last 6-8 weeks, while semi-permanent color fades more quickly, often within 4-6 weeks. Proper maintenance and using color-safe products can help extend the life of your color.