Colorists recommend going to the salon every six to twelve weeks to refresh your color, depending on your needs. But even if you go to the salon more often, you’re still dealing with roots. That’s where Root Cover-Up comes in, a genius little invention that covers gray hairs or camouflages obvious regrowth. It comes in a variety of formulas and if you know how to use Root Cover-Up correctly, it can become a hero, saving you a ton of money and keeping you looking fresh between color appointments.

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What is root coverage?

Root cover-up is a temporary hair dye that is applied to the roots of the hair to cover new hair growth, particularly the area between the scalp and the line where your previous hair color begins.

“Typically, you use root coverage to hide those pesky gray hairs that can come through between salon visits,” explains celebrity stylist Michelle Cleveland. “However, these (products) can also be used to highlight your existing color or even fill in the hairline when you pull the hair back from the face, creating the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.”

This is a temporary solution that will usually wash out at the next wash, but it will extend the time between appointments and can save a lot of money in the long run.

How to use Root Cover-Up

Root covers come in a variety of forms, including sprays, powders and sticks. Each type and product formula has its own application instructions, but there are some general rules to follow.

• Find the best shade: If you choose a color that doesn’t match the rest of your hair, it will look unnatural. You may need to try a few options before you find the perfect color.
• Apply to clean, combed hair: “Start with clean, dry hair for best results,” advises celebrity colorist Jennifer Korab. “Also, brush or comb through your hair to remove tangles and expose the roots.”
• Follow the principle “less is more”: No matter what type of root coverage you use, stylists agree that a less-is-more approach is ideal. Korab says, “This can cause hair to look stiff, clumpy or overly dull.”
• Mix really, really well: Just like you blend, blend, blend your foundation, you should also blend your root cover. “If you don’t blend the product well into the surrounding hair, you may end up with visible lines or patches,” says Korab.
• Allow the product to dry completely: After applying the root cover, allow the product to sit for a few minutes to set in the hair. This will prevent it from smudging or transferring. Once the product is dry, style your hair as usual. Avoid vigorous brushing or combing directly on the covered roots to maintain coverage.

Sprays

If you use a spray, hold the can about 6 inches from your roots and spray lightly in sweeping motions. This will avoid overspray and give a more even result. L’Oréal Root Cover Up is a popular option, and another good option is Rita Hazan’s Root Concealer Touch Up Spray.

powder

“For powder coverage, gently dip the brush into the powder, shake off excess, and gently pat it onto the roots of your hair,” says Korab. “Blend well to ensure even coverage.” She says you can work the product into your hair with your fingertips or a comb. Try Color Wow Root Coverup Powder or Truhair Color & Lift Hair Powder.

Gels & Crayons

Cleveland recommends applying liquid gels and crayons to the roots of your hair as directed. Apply the product with a light hand and minimally, gently blending it over the roots of your hair. You may need to wait a little longer for wet concealer formulas to properly set. If you have brown or black hair, Bumble and bumble’s Bb. Color Stick is a good option, and Tarte’s Big Ego Dab & Go Hair Concealer comes in seven shades.