Even though hair salons are now open in many locations, hair maintenance is still a pressing concern for a lot of us. With all the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and talk of new clusters of infections, it’s hard to know how long we will have the option of in-person salon visits.
As a result of the pandemic and “lockdown,” there has been a rise in low-maintenance styles that are easier to keep up. “People are wanting to get things that they know that they won’t have to worry about for a long period of time, just in case of maintenance,” says Cherin Choi, a Los Angeles-based colorist and co-owner of Nova Arts Salon.
Now more than ever, everyone is focused on keeping their color looking fresh between hair appointments (or until they can safely see their colorists again!). Lucky for you, we asked Choi to share some of her tips on how to extend your hair color while at home.
Consult Your Colorist
Before making any big hair coloring decisions, Choi highly recommends consulting with your colorist. Getting a professional opinion before an at-home dye job could save you from having to undergo a costly color correction appointment in the future. “When people don’t ask and they take matters into their own hands, that’s when you have a hard time and have to fix things,” says Choi. “I just always want my clients to know that I’m available to them.”
Stay Close To Your Natural Hair Color
Choosing a shade closer to your natural hair color will ultimately require less maintenance. When deciding on a new hair color, Choi shared that it’s important to consider your current lifestyle because some shades can be really high maintenance or not necessarily an easy color for your skin tone. “Currently, I always tell people that when they go a little lighter or darker than their natural hair color, that’s actually what makes the most sense,” she says. By sticking close to your natural color, you’re not dealing with a whole lot of grow out.
Hide Regrowth With a Root Concealer
Looking to cover up pesky gray hairs or conceal incoming roots? Choi suggests trying a temporary root concealer to hold yourself over until your next hair appointment. Whether your preference is a powder or a spray, there are a number of root-touch products on the market, in an array of shade options, to meet your needs.
Give Highlights a Try
For anyone who is interested in switching up their color but doesn’t want to worry about dealing with grown out roots, Choi recommends getting highlights versus all-over color. “Highlights are always better,” she says. “They just grow out seamlessly. It just depends on the technique of the highlights but typically, they do grow out really nicely.”
Add Masks To Your Routine
Since hair dye can leave your hair looking dry and brittle, it’s important to give your strands a little TLC with a nourishing hair mask. “While we’re home and not doing anything, get masks and really take care of your hair that way when you do go to the salon, you’re working from the best point possible,” says Choi. She adds that now is the time to give your hair a break and lay off styling your hair if possible.
Will you be trying out any of Cherin’s tips? Let us know in the comments below?
