A nationwide lockdown has apparent downsides to it. You can't step out for a run and getting groceries every day seems like a task on a reality show. For beauty enthusiasts like me, the biggest downer is the considerable drop in the number of time I abuse my salon loyalty points. That too for yet another blowout that I probably don't need. It also means that all the upkeep required to keep up the impression of being a functional adult has to be done by myself. And the worst of it all? Root touch-ups!
I go to my stylist every 6 weeks to get my roots touched up; they grow out very fast. Unfortunately, I missed my last appointment. And if you missed your appointment right before we started social distancing, you might have to do it yourself. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you tackle this beast on your own!
- Use a cover-up spray
- Dyeing it the right way
- Don’t wash your hair prior to dyeing
- Double up on the TLC
- Steer clear of styling
Use a cover-up spray
This one is just a temporary measure but a quick and painless one. Going live on your Instagram with a new tutorial and don't want your ashy roots to show? Use a cover-up concealer spray to fix it. These sprays latch on to your roots and make them look touched up; until you find a permanent solution.
Dyeing it the right way
If you have a habit of disregarding instructions written on boxed hair dyes, then I have news for you...you won’t get the job done! Mix it in right proportions, use a root comb applicator bottle (if you can), spread it evenly with a gentle massage and rinse off with lukewarm water. Don't keep the dye on for longer than necessary. To make this touch up last, use a colour protecting wash like the TIGI Bed Head Urban Antidotes 1 Re-Energize Shampoo.
Don’t wash your hair prior to dyeing
No, we aren't saying this to fuel your laziness, but washing hair before dyeing it can be counterproductive. Our scalp naturally produces a combination of oils and sweat (acid mantle), which serves as a protective barrier during the colouring process. It is better to colour a day old hair than a freshly-washed one.
Double up on the TLC
Hair colouring, especially when done on your own, tends to leave our hair dry and vulnerable for further damage. Lay off on the constant washing for a couple of days and nourish it back to health with oil massages. Coconut oil is excellent this time of year!
Steer clear of styling
Heat styling can wreak havoc on colour treated hair if it hasn’t bounced back yet. Allow your hair to go back to its natural state (this might take a couple of days) and then tease it all you want!
Written by Sumona Bose on Mar 25, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!