Shadow Roots: The Low Maintenance Hair Trend

We totally understand if you can’t afford to get your hair done right now. But, not to worry! You might want to embrace a low-maintenance and low-cost hair trend that works for everyone. More refined than your lockdown regrowth, shadow roots are one of the chicest and longest enduring hair trends since the start of the pandemic.

There are many tips and tricks that promise the Holy Grail finish of smooth, blended colour – but shadow roots might be the best way to get that dreamy ‘lived-in’ look. It’s more elegant than regrowth, highlights your fresh colour and extends the life of your new look; it’s about time the shadow root trend gets the attention it deserves!

What are Shadow Roots?

It’s known as shadowing or smudging as it helps to give the hair a seamless journey into regrowth while avoiding the harsh lines that appear when your hair grows out.

Your stylist can create the shadow root by blending colour through the roots to lift the hair half a shade. You can then highlight or lowlight the rest of the hair as usual for a subtle contrast that adds dimension and movement through the midlengths.

Whether you want to go natural or extreme, you’re able to achieve the colour you want without as much maintenance. So, if you prefer the slightly lived-in look then you can’t go wrong with a shadow root.

How Long Do Shadow Roots Last?

The best thing about shadow roots is that it’s way less upkeep than your usual hair trend. So, you won’t need to head back to the salon every few weeks for a touch up!

The maintenance will vary depending on your dream hair and your natural hair colour, texture, health and at-home care. However, usually a shadow root will last up until your next colour service – meaning you can wait as long or as little as you want.

How Noticeable are Shadow Roots?

There’s plenty of room for customisation with shadow roots – they can be as subtle or as dramatic as you like. How far down the shadow roots are taken depends on how much you would like to see. This can be discussed with your stylist who will evaluate your haircut, face shape, image reference and hair health.

Your shadow roots will be purposely placed to create contouring and face framing with colour that will define your features. You can go for a colour that mimics your natural shade, or you can be creative and make it lighter, darker, warmer or a completely different colour.

Now, let’s keep scrolling for what you really came here for: the coolest shadow root trends to try ASAP.