There is nothing more annoying than having your hairstylist achieve the perfect color on your hair just to watch your gray roots make a comeback less than two weeks later. But, the truth of it is, if you have a significant amount of gray that your coloring, or the hair color you use varies largely from your natural hair color, unsightly roots occur in no time. It’s best for your hair (not to mention your pocketbook) to wait 4 to 6 weeks between dye jobs and we’ve got some tips on how you can quickly and easily cover those grays until your next salon visit.
The Color Stick
Color sticks are quick and easy to use and are priced normally around $10. They look like a tube of lipstick and easily fit into a purse or bag for easy transport. Some manufacturers may refer to it as a hair crayon. Either way, the product works great for covering gray roots, and it washes out easily with shampoo. You can buy hair crayons or color sticks at most drug and beauty supply stores. You can also purchase them from select retailers online.
How to use a color stick:
1. Choose a color that matches the color of your dyed hair.
2. Wet the tip of the stick with water.
3. Gently rub the stick on exposed roots.
4. Brush the color through your hair to distribute it evenly so it looks more natural.
Hair Shadow
Hair shadow is an easy to use option to hide unsightly roots between hair color appointments. This product washes out easily and it works in the same way as an eye shadow works. Because of its texture, some have found it helpful to use an old pillowcase as some color may rub off during sleep. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you can try regular eye shadow. However, eye shadow may not give you the same intense coverage as a shadow formulated specifically for hair. Find color shadow in the same places you find color sticks
How to use hair shadow:
1. Choose a color that closely resembles the color of your tresses.
2. Dip a large shadow brush in the hair shadow.
3. Apply it to gray roots and blend it in.
Spray the Gray Away
Concealer sprays are easy to find and they work well to temporarily cover gray roots. It has a nozzle to direct color in the area you want to cover. It may take a little time getting used to, to learn how to use the right amount of pressure to apply the spray evenly rather than in spurts. Like all of these temporary hair color products, less is better than more. They tend to have a bit of a tacky feel in the hair, so apply lightly and comb through. You can always add more if needed. This product may not be a good idea to use before exercising as it may run if your hair gets too sweaty.
Mascara Serves Dual-duty
Hair mascara is a liquid color in a mascara tube with a brush applicator like that of regular eye mascara. If you have dark hair, you can temporarily use your regular mascara to cover small sections of gray. Simply apply it the same way you apply the mascara to your lashes. A couple of quick swipes will do the trick. If you overdo it, the roots will look clumpy and unnatural.
Throw on a Hat
Every woman should have a few good hats in her arsenal of accessories. If you have a variety of hats from baseball caps to big floppy hats, when gray roots show up, just pull a hat off the shelf and problem is solved.
There is no reason to let gray roots ruin your day. Hair products like shadows, sprays and color sticks can give you 2 to 3 weeks longer between color appointments, and over a year. . . That adds up to a lot of savings!
To learn more, visit Keranique, at HSN.
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