In the world of haircare and maintenance, the term "root touch up" has become a familiar refrain. A key component of hair upkeep, this technique offers a convenient and effective way to maintain hair color between full hair dye appointments. Whether you're a seasoned salon-goer or a newcomer to the concept, this comprehensive guide will unravel the intricacies of root touch ups, from what they are to how they're done, and why they're an essential tool in the pursuit of flawless locks.
Understanding Root Touch Up
A hair root touch up refers to the process of applying hair color to the regrowth at the base of the hair shaft, commonly known as the "roots." Over time, hair grows, revealing the natural color of the hair at its base and creating a noticeable contrast with the previously colored strands. Root touch ups serve to bridge this contrast, ensuring a seamless transition between the colored and natural sections of the hair. For example, if your hair is naturally dark, and you dye it blonde, the stark contrast between your natural hair color and blonde hair can look jarring. In this case, you don't need a full color or even a partial highlight; you just need to cover the root regrowth.
The Need for Root Touch Ups
One of the primary reasons for opting for root touch ups is to extend the time between full hair coloring appointments. Hair grows at an average rate of about half an inch per month, causing the roots to become visible within weeks of the original dye application. For those who have opted for vibrant or unconventional hair colors, root touch ups become even more critical to maintain the desired look and prevent fading. It’s a small price to pay to have both beautiful color and long hair growth. If long, healthy locks are your thing, we have all the tips on how to make your hair grow faster.
Ideal Candidates for Root Touch Ups
Root touch ups are suitable for anyone who colors their hair, regardless of the chosen color or technique. Whether you're a fan of classic shades, trendy pastels, or bold fashion colors, this technique can help maintain your preferred aesthetic. Moreover, individuals who value a polished and put-together appearance may find root touch ups to be a valuable addition to their beauty routine.
Root touch ups are particularly common for covering up overgrown roots on those with gray hair. Gray roots typically need a touch up with a salon visit every 6-8 weeks.
The Process of Root Touch Up
Root touch ups can be done at a salon by a professional colorist or at home using DIY kits. The process involves several key steps:
Color Selection
Choosing the right hair color is crucial to achieving a harmonious blend between the new color and the existing one. Professional colorists take into consideration factors like the current color, undertones, and the desired outcome before selecting the appropriate shade.
Sectioning
The hair is sectioned to ensure precise application. This enables the colorist to focus solely on the roots without affecting the already colored lengths.
Application
The chosen hair color is carefully applied to the regrowth area, ensuring even coverage. This step requires attention to detail to avoid overlapping onto previously colored hair.
Processing Time
The color is allowed to process for the specified amount of time. This ensures that the roots absorb the color and match the rest of the hair.
Rinsing and Styling
After the processing time, the color is rinsed out, and the hair is styled as desired. This completes the root touch up process, leaving the hair looking refreshed and vibrant.
Benefits of Professional Root Touch Ups
While root touch ups can be done at home using over-the-counter kits, seeking professional assistance offers several advantages. Professional colorists possess in-depth knowledge of color theory, enabling them to select the ideal shade and achieve seamless color blending. Additionally, their experience ensures that the color is applied accurately, reducing the risk of uneven coverage or color mishaps.
Maintaining Healthy Hair
A significant advantage of root touch ups is their ability to maintain the health of your hair. Unlike full-color applications, where the entire length of the hair is treated, root touch ups primarily focus on the regrowth area. This minimizes the exposure of previously colored hair to chemicals, preventing excessive damage and preserving the overall health and integrity of the hair.
Frequency of Root Touch Ups
The frequency of root touch ups depends on several factors, including the rate of hair growth, the contrast between the natural and colored hair, and personal preferences. As a general guideline, most individuals opt for root touch ups every 4 to 6 weeks. However, those with slower hair growth or less noticeable regrowth may be able to extend the time between touch up appointments.
Innovations in Root Touch Ups
The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and root touch ups are no exception. New techniques and products have emerged to enhance the root touch up experience:
Root Concealer
These are temporary products, often available as a concealer spray or powder form, designed to camouflage visible roots between touch up appointments. They provide a quick fix for those times when you need a little extra coverage before your next appointment.
Balayage and Root Shadowing
These advanced coloring techniques involve strategically applying color to create a natural, blended look between the roots and the previously colored sections. They offer a longer-lasting transition, reducing the need for frequent touch ups.
Express Root Touch Ups
Some salons offer express root touch up services that are specifically designed for busy individuals who need a quick refresh. These appointments focus solely on the regrowth area, reducing the overall time spent at the salon.
Conclusion
In the dynamic world of haircare and beauty, the root touch up stands as a cornerstone of hair maintenance. Whether you're committed to maintaining your signature shade or experimenting with new colors, this technique offers a reliable solution to keep your locks looking flawless. With its ability to bridge the gap between full-color appointments, root touch ups ensure that your hair remains a canvas of self-expression, reflecting your unique style and beauty. Studo One Salon specializes in root touch ups on all hair types and colors. Visit our salon in Hockessin, DE for all of your hair care needs.
Kristin Baiocco
Kristin Baiocco is the creative behind Studio One Salon in Hockessin, DE. Kristin has been a hairstylist for over 15 years and founded Studio One in 2022 to create a space for stylists and guests that was more creative and inspiring than the average salon. Her love for people and this industry really drive home why she set this goal in the first place: To create, every day.