What does it mean for hair to fade?

Fading in hair refers to the gradual loss of color that occurs when hair is exposed to various environmental elements such as sunlight, heat, and pollution. This process can be particularly pronounced in color-treated hair, where the pigments used during the coloring process are susceptible to breakdown over time. As these pigments degrade, the hair can appear lighter or less vibrant, detracting from the original color.

The other choices do not accurately define the concept of hair fading. Gaining elasticity relates to the hair's ability to stretch without breaking, which is a different characteristic entirely. A double process typically refers to a coloring technique that involves two separate steps, often used to achieve a lighter shade or to apply vivid colors, rather than a description of color loss. Direct dye refers to hair colors that do not require a developer and are deposited onto the hair, which is unrelated to the fading process itself.