How To: Hide Those Roots

Having hair that grows fast is a blessing, and a curse, because I went grey exceedingly early in life. Combine that with not being able to get a hair appointment for a month (!!!), and I've got grey roots. Instead of fretting (ok, I'm still fretting) about, I use these tried-and-true techniques to hide those roots temporarily until I can get into the salon:


M O R E :

• Use a root concealer spray, like Rita Hazan $24. Spray on roots lightly and brush in to blend in.
• A colored dry shampoo/hair powder by Bumble & Bumble $45. Spray on roots and let dry for a couple of minutes. Use fingers to disperse.
• To use the Oscar Blandi Pronto Colore Root Pen $23, "paint" the pen on your roots.
• For larger areas, try the TouchBack Root Marker $12.
• If you need to cover a large area, try this Nice & Easy Root Touch Up kit $7-15. There are other brands out there, but this is the only brand I've tried. 

L E S S :

• Avon's Color Protection Grey Root Touch Up $8 works similar to a mascara. Brush it on your roots, but be sure to blend in.
• For small areas, like around temples, this Cover Your Grey Touch Up, $7, has a doe-foot applicator. Be sure to let dry.
• Try a cheap, brown mascara to hide roots, $5+.
• Another option is the Cover Your Grey Touch Up Stick, $5. This is similar to a lipstick, but a thicker, waxier application. 

F R E E :

• Now we're getting really cheap, by using what you probably already have at home. First up is bronzer or dark powder, $5. Use an eye shadow brush to apply. 
• This is going to sound completely crazy, but I've used cocoa powder as a dry shampoo/hiding roots in a pinch. And it works, assuming your hair is (a)cocoa-colored (b)you want to smell like chocolate.
• Brown shadow is also a great way to hide the grey and works similar to the powder/bronzer. Use a brush to apply and brush through. I've used a cream shadow as well but found the powder easier for me.

T I P S :

• Before I get the "just to to the salon" comments, these are options for the few random greys that don't need to be dyed yet or to tide you over until the appointment.
• Minus the root touch up temp dye kit, all of these options are designed to last you until your next shampoo, or through the day at least!
• Make sure the shade matches/close to your roots, otherwise it will look super obvious.
• While I listed only brunette options, almost all of the products above come in other shades. Black and brown are easiest to disguise.
• If I have highlights, I avoid the temp dyeing of my hair. This can be done (comment me for directions), but I avoid it because I'm a scaredy cat.
• Most products come with a comb, so use it to help disperse product, so your roots won't look crusty/cakey.
• Don't forget your temples/hairline!
• Try a ponytail, bun, braided headband or any style that avoids a part in your hair. You'll be less likely to see roots that way.
• Clean hair doesn't show roots as badly as greasy hair.
• I steer clear of shadows/powders that are sparkly...unless you want sparkly, look-at-my-roots.
• Is the color too flat and powdery? Use a shine spray on your hair.
• This is common sense, but avoid nail polish on your hair!

Current giveaways on Elle Sees:

• Clear Shampoo/Conditioner, ends 5-21
• $50 Sephora gift card, ends 5-20
• NYX Cosmetics, ends Sunday