Here's the sad truth about gray hair: Unless you embrace the au naturel look, it's a total b*tch to maintain. Whether you have just a handful of grays or have gone full silver, keeping grays concealed requires constant attention and upkeep. Instead of cool, lived-in highlights that grow out naturally, you now need root-to-tip single-process color, where roots appear in as little as 10 days to two weeks. And suddenly, something as simple as pulling your hair back for an easy polished 'do doesn't look as polished with gray wispies peeking out at your temples. What's a woman with gray hair to do?
There is a way to cover up gray hair without spending a fortune (or a lifetime in your colorist's chair). The newest root cover-up products are so advanced, you can hide regrowth -- grays and all -- in a matter of seconds. They're easy to apply at home (just like a dry shampoo), the coverage lasts until you shampoo, and they won't transfer onto your pillow or clothes. And these products are so good, they'll work on any hair color. The bottle blonde with jet-black roots? These products can even help her.
So whether you're lazy, busy or just don't feel like forking over the cash to have your color refreshed right now, pick up one of these root cover ups. Gray hair doesn't seem so high maintenance anymore.
Image via Getty
Photo 2/17
Concentrated Color -- Where You Need It
With an ultra-targeted nozzle, and three shades to choose from Marc Anthony Gray Root Touch Up, $6.81, gives you precise coverage at the hairline or any place you see grays sprouting. The fibrous formula dries instantly and gives limp strands a big boost of volume and density.
Using the sponge-tipped applicator to put on this magnetic temporary hair color couldn't be easier. The fibers of Ever Pro Gray Away Root Touch Up Magnetic Powder, $8.99, adhere to individual strands for a natural-looking application and no fallout. The formula adjusts to fit a range of shades and is enriched with protein to keep hair shiny, soft and without that gummy feeling associated with some other root concealers.
Gray hair is notoriously coarse, which makes it difficult for some root cover-ups to fully disguise. L'Oreal Paris Root Cover Up, $10.99, was designed to specifically targets gray hair and makes them invisible. Enough said?
For less than seven dollars, Dippity Do Colorblend Root Touch Up, $6.99, is a great daily option for covering grays until your next salon visit. Coming in two shades that adapt to most light or dark hair colors, the pressed powder formula is housed in an adorable little pod with a brush applicator. Simply sweep on color where you want it and be wowed by the natural results that wash out when you shampoo.
