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How Often Should You Touch Up Your Roots?

By August 21, 2025No Comments
Root Touch Up

Why Root Touch-Up Matter

When your natural hair color starts to peek through after coloring, it’s time for a root touch-up. But many people wonder: How often should I touch up my roots? The answer depends on your hair type, color, and how fast your hair grows.

Whether you’re looking for the best hair salon near me, a salon in Surrey BC, or simply want to know how to keep your color fresh, this guide gives you clear answers using simple, easy-to-understand language.

What Is a Root Touch-Up?

A root touch-up is when a small amount of color is applied to the roots of your hair to match the rest of your color. This service is most often used to:

  • Cover gray hair
  • Maintain a consistent hair color
  • Refresh the look between full hair dye sessions

Whether you get it done at a haircut salon, try a home color kit, or use a quick spray touch-up, keeping your roots in check helps you look polished.

How Fast Do Hair Roots Grow?

On average, your hair grows about half an inch (1.25 cm) per month. That means your roots will start to show in about 3–6 weeks after coloring, depending on:

  • Your natural hair color
  • How different your dyed color is
  • The method you used to color your hair
  • How quickly your hair grows

How Often Should You Touch Up Roots?

Let’s break it down by hair needs and color goals:

1. Covering Gray Hair

  • When to touch up: Every 3–4 weeks
  • Why: Gray hair can become very noticeable against dark or vibrant hair colors.

2. Fashion Colors (Bright or Unnatural Shades)

  • When to touch up: Every 3–5 weeks
  • Why: Vivid colors like red, blue, or purple fade faster and regrowth stands out more.

3. Natural Shades (Brown, Blonde, Black)

  • When to touch up: Every 4–6 weeks
  • Why: These blend better with natural roots and can go longer between touch-ups.

4. Highlights or Balayage

  • When to refresh: Every 8–12 weeks
  • Why: These styles grow out more softly, meaning the roots are less obvious.

Pro tip:If you’re getting hair highlights, you may not need a full root touch-up every time — a gloss or toner can refresh your look between appointments.

How to Know It’s Time for a Root Touch-Up

You may need a touch-up if:

  • You see a clear line between your roots and colored hair
  • Your grays are showing at the scalp
  • Your hair color looks faded near the top
  • You feel your hair has lost its shine or vibrancy

Root Touch-Up Options (Salon vs. At-Home)

1. Salon Root Touch-Ups

  • Best for: Long-lasting, accurate results
  • Great if: You’re searching for the best salon near me or hair salon Surrey BC
  • Benefits: Professional color matching, healthier application, longer-lasting results

2. At-Home Root Touch-Up Kits

  • Best for: Quick fixes between salon visits
  • Popular brands: Clairol, L’Oréal, Revlon, Madison Reed
  • Downsides: Might not match salon color exactly, takes practice to apply neatly

3. Temporary Root Cover-Ups

  • Best for: Covering roots fast for a few days
  • Types: Spray, powder, stick
  • Examples: L’Oréal Magic Retouch, Color Wow, Clairol spray

Tips to Make Your Root Touch-Up Last Longer

Here are smart ways to make your touch-up last longer and keep your hair looking fresh:

  • Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner
    Sulfate-free formulas help protect color from fading.
  • Wash your hair less often
    Try washing every other day or even less if possible.
  • Avoid hot water and heat styling tools
    Use lukewarm water and always apply a heat protectant.
  • Touch up with spray or powder when needed
    Temporary products help cover roots between appointments.
  • Protect your hair from the sun
    UV rays can fade color, so wear a hat or use UV-protecting spray.

How Much Does a Root Touch-Up Cost?

Service Type Average Cost (CAD)
Salon Root Touch-Up $60 – $120
At-Home Root Touch-Up Kit $15 – $30
Temporary Root Spray/Powder $10 – $25

Prices vary by salon location, stylist experience, and hair length. If you’re near Surrey BC, check out good hair salons in Surrey that offer color packages and consultations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I touch up my roots every 2 weeks?

If you have fast-growing hair or many grays, every 2 weeks might work. However, doing it too often could dry out or damage your hair. Use a temporary root cover-up spray between full touch-ups.

Q2. Is root touch-up bad for your hair?

Not if done properly. Using quality color and spacing out your appointments keeps your hair healthy. Talk to a professional at a trusted hair salon for safe results.

Q3. How long does a root touch-up take at a salon?

Usually about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your hair length and color type.

Q4. What’s the difference between root touch-up and all-over color?

A root touch-up only colors new growth, while all-over color refreshes your entire head. Touch-ups are faster, cheaper, and less damaging.

Q5. What’s the best root touch-up product?

Top-rated options include:

  • L’Oréal Magic Retouch (spray)
  • Clairol Root Touch-Up Kit
  • Color Wow Root Cover Up (powder)

Looking for a Root Touch-Up Salon in Surrey, BC?

If you’re searching for a hair salon in Surrey BC, a place that offers both haircuts and color services, or the best salon near me, choose one with:

  • Licensed stylists
  • Great customer reviews
  • A range of color services
  • Clear pricing and consultations

Conclusion: Keep Your Color Fresh and Your Roots in Check

Whether you’re touching up roots to cover gray, keep your red vibrant, or maintain your blonde highlights, the key is consistency. Most people need to touch up every 3 to 6 weeks, but your hair type and lifestyle may change that.

Use this guide to plan your next appointment, explore your best options, and keep your color looking amazing between visits.

Need Professional Help with Your Roots?

Visit a top-rated hair salon in Surrey for expert care, personalized service, and long-lasting color results. Whether you’re looking for a haircut salon or a place that specializes in root touch up hair color, we’ve got you covered.

Call now to book your consultation or schedule online today.

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