How to Use Root Cover-Up to Keep Your Hair Color Fresh Between Appointments

Colorists say you should head back to the salon for a refresh every six to 12 weeks depending on your needs, but even if you go on the more frequent end you’ll still have to contend with roots. Enter: root cover-up, a genius little invention that covers gray hairs or masks obvious regrowth. It comes in different formulas, and if you know how to use root coverup the right way it can become a hero that saves you tons of cash and keeps you looking fresh between color appointments. 

RELATED: Why You Should Avoid Plucking Gray Hairs, According to Hairstylists 

What Is Root Cover-Up? 

Root cover-up is a temporary hair color product that’s applied at the roots to cover regrowth, specifically the area between your scalp and the line where your previous hair color starts. 

“​​Typically, someone uses a root cover-up to hide those pesky gray hairs that can pop through between salon visits,” explains celebrity stylist Michelle Cleveland. “However, these [products] can also be used to accentuate your existing color or even to fill in around the hairline when pulling the hair off the face creating the illusion of thicker fuller hair.” 

This is a temporary fix that typically washes out in your next shampoo, but it prolongs the time between appointments and can save quite a bit of money in the long-term. 

How to Use Root Cover-Up 

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

• Find the best shade: Choosing a color that doesn’t match the rest of your hair will look unnatural. You may need to try a few options before you find the perfect fit.
• Apply to clean, combed hair: “Start with clean, dry hair for the best results,” advises celebrity colorist Jennifer Korab. “Also, brush or comb through your hair to remove any tangles and to expose the roots.” 
• Take a less is more approach: No matter what type of root cover-up you’re using, stylists agree that a less-is-more approach is ideal. Korab says, “This can make the hair look stiff, cakey, or overly dull.” 
• Blend really, really well: In the same way you blend, blend, blend your foundation, you should blend your root cover-up. “Failing to blend the product well with the surrounding hair can lead to visible lines or patches,” Korab says.  
• Let the product completely dry: After applying root cover-up, give it a few minutes to rest and settle onto your hair. This prevents smudging and transfer. Once the product is dry, style your hair as usual. Avoid heavy brushing or combing directly on the covered roots to maintain coverage.

Sprays 

If you are using a spray, hold the can about six inches away from your roots and lightly spray in a sweeping motion. This helps prevent overspraying and creates a more even result. L'Oréal Root Cover Up is a cult-favorite option, and another good one is Rita Hazan’s Root Concealer Touch Up Spray.

Powders

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

Gels & Crayons 

For liquid gels and crayons, Cleveland says to apply the product to your roots as instructed. Use a light hand and minimal product, gently sweeping the product over the roots. You may need to wait a bit longer for wet coverup formulas to properly settle. If you have brown or black hair, the Bumble and bumble Bb. Color Stick is a great option, and Tarte’s Big Ego Dab & Go Hair Concealer comes in seven colors.