Hair Color Tips To Cover Grey Hair In 3 Minutes (PHOTOS)

I've always envied my friends who have unexpectedly sprouted grey hairs from their roots . I think it adds a hint of color, albeit shocking, along the hairline. But as someone whose jet black curls has remained the same dark shade since birth, my admiration may be a bit hard for my girls that are going grey to receive. Nonetheless, I hear their cries of frustration, as well as the thousands of other women who want to cover up the grey -- and cover it up fast. Here is your 3-minute guide to getting it done like a pro.

Minute 1: Read the hair color box instructions thoroughlyAt-home hair color products take up at least an entire aisle at my neighborhood drugstore, however, one can easily become overwhelmed with all the options. Before you pull on your disposable colorist gloves, take this time to carefully read the instructions. No speed reading! Understanding the brand's step-by-step technique to concealing grey hairs will make for beautiful results.

Minute 2: Touch up with careOnce you've decided on the option that works best for you -- there are highlighter pens, chunky color markers and root touch-up combs (though these generally have a 10-minute application time) guaranteeing to get rid of unsightly grey hair in just a few swipes -- apply the product as instructed.

Marie Robinson, Clairol Color Director and owner of Marie Robinson Salon in New York City , advises when covering greys the hair should be thoroughly saturated with product. "The area where grey hair is should always look wet and not dry." She adds, "Mascara-like hair color wands can provide some coverage until your next salon visit, but a root touch-up tool will work best when there are a lot of grey patches at the roots."

Minute 3: Step back and evaluateIn the final minute, you'll want to pry the at-home hair color from your grip, stand in natural light and assess your quick fix. Grab a girlfriend (or your man) for a fresh set of eyes to see if all signs of grey have been removed. And if all else fails, Robinson recommends pulling hair back into a ponytail with an elastic tie or using bobby pins to pin the front to hide grey hairs.

Meanwhile, find out the truth behind that plucking grey hairs beauty myth .

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