When it comes to keeping your hair color fresh and polished, a root touch up is one of the easiest ways to stay looking your best. But many people ask, how long does a root touch up take? Is it a quick appointment, or do you need to block off your whole day?
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about root touch ups—including how long they take, what the process looks like, and how to make your results last longer.
Whether you’re looking for the best root touch up services, a hair salon near me, or just curious about how root color works, this article has the answers.
What Is a Root Touch Up?
A root touch up is when a hair colorist applies dye only to the new hair growth near your scalp. This is done to match your roots to the rest of your previously colored hair. It helps cover gray hairs or natural color that’s growing back in.
Root touch ups are one of the most common hair salon services. No matter where you go—whether it’s a hair salon in Surrey, BC, or your local area—most salons offer this service because it helps maintain even, beautiful color.
How Long Does a Root Touch Up Take?
On average, a root touch up takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. But several factors can impact the time it takes:
1. Hair Length and Thickness
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Short or fine hair takes less time.
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Long or thick hair may require more dye and attention.
2. Amount of New Growth
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Half-inch of root growth is quicker to cover.
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Over 2 inches of growth takes longer to blend smoothly.
3. Type of Hair Color Used
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Permanent color takes more time to process than semi-permanent color.
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Some salon-grade formulas act faster.
4. Additional Services
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Adding a haircut, blow-dry, or highlights will extend your visit.
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Many clients combine services for convenience.
5. Stylist Experience
- An experienced stylist at a top-rated hair salon may work more efficiently, saving you time without compromising quality.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Root Touch Up?
Here’s what to expect during your salon visit:
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Consultation: The stylist looks at your roots and reviews your current hair color.
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Color Matching: They mix a formula that closely matches your existing shade.
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Application: Dye is carefully applied to the root area only.
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Processing: The color sets for 30–45 minutes.
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Rinse and Wash: The stylist rinses and shampoos your hair.
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Optional Styling: You can add a blow-dry or other hair services.
How Often Should You Get a Root Touch Up?
Most people book a root touch up every 4 to 6 weeks. However, the ideal schedule depends on:
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How fast your hair grows.
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How different your natural color is from your dyed color.
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Whether you’re covering gray hair.
If your roots grow quickly, or if gray hairs appear faster, you might need touch ups more often.
How to Find the Best Place for a Root Touch Up
To get the best results, choose a salon with experienced colorists. Here’s how to find the right one:
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Search online for best hair salon near me or root touch up services near me.
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Check salon reviews and customer photos.
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Ask if they specialize in hair color, gray coverage, or blending techniques.
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Make sure they have experience with your hair type and desired shade.
If you’re in Surrey BC, look for top-rated hair salons in Surrey known for expert root touch ups and color services.
Tips to Make Your Root Touch Up Last Longer
Want to avoid frequent visits? These tips will help:
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Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner.
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Wash your hair less often—2–3 times a week is ideal.
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Limit heat styling (flat irons, curling irons, blow dryers).
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Protect your hair from sun with a hat or UV hair spray.
Following these tips helps maintain your hair color and makes your root touch up last longer.
When Should You Get a Full Hair Color Instead?
If you’re happy with your current shade, a root touch up is all you need. But if any of the following apply, a full color may be better:
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You want a completely new look.
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Your hair color has faded or looks uneven.
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You haven’t dyed your hair in a long time.
Your stylist can guide you based on your hair’s health and your color goals.
FAQs: Root Touch Up Time & Hair Color Maintenance
1. How long does a root touch up take at a salon?
A root touch up usually takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your hair length, thickness, and how much new growth you have. If you’re getting other services like a haircut or blow-dry, it may take longer.
2. How often should I get a root touch up?
Most people get root touch ups every 4 to 6 weeks. If your roots grow quickly or you’re covering gray hair, you may need more frequent visits.
3. Can I get a root touch up and highlights at the same time?
Yes, many salons offer combo services. Doing both in one appointment saves time and helps your color look more natural and blended.
4. Is a root touch up better than full hair color?
A root touch up is best if you’re happy with your current color and just want to cover new growth. Choose a full color if you want a new shade or need to refresh faded color.
5. Can I do a root touch up at home?
DIY root touch up kits are available, but salon professionals offer better color matching, cleaner application, and safer results. If precision and quality matter, book a salon appointment.
Conclusion: Know What to Expect and Plan Ahead
A root touch up is a quick, easy way to keep your hair looking fresh and polished. Knowing what affects the timing—like hair length, new growth, and service add-ons—can help you plan your visit better.
For the best results, trust a professional hair salon in Surrey or your local area. Skip the DIY box color and choose a salon with great reviews, experienced stylists, and personalized care.
Book Your Root Touch Up Today
Ready for a fresh, flawless look? Don’t wait until your roots show too much.
Book your root touch up now at one of the best hair salons in Surrey. Whether you need expert color, a quick haircut, or hair highlights, our stylists are here to help.
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