Hair loss takes many forms. Androgenetic hair loss, beginning with a receding hairline and usually developing into a bald head, is common in men. In women, on the other hand, the hair thins all over the head. This is particularly noticeable along the parting. Another common form of hair loss is alopecia areata, or circular hair loss. It presents as round or oval bald patches which can appear on the head, in the beard or on any other part of the body where hair is found. When the first signs of hair loss emerge, many people try to hide the affected areas. One short-term solution is root sprays. Below, we tell you everything you need to know about them!
A root spray tints the hair and makes it look fuller
Root sprays are used to conceal changes in the roots of the hair. People often use them to mask the roots of dyed hair, but also in the early stages of hair loss. A root spray is suitable for fine hair, and can lend it volume and fullness – as long as you choose the right product. There are two main types of root spray:
A tinted root spray is ideal for touching up roots as they grow out, and also gives the hair more volume.
A pure volumising spray is often colourless and creates a fuller look.
Most of the products on the market will do both, tint and volumise. The best type of spray is one that does what you need it to do whilst also caring for your hair at the same time. Sprays contain tiny molecules that coat the fibres of the hair, improving their structure and making the hair look thicker.
Tinted root spray from a can being used to mask hair loss
Root spray is a quick fix for thinning hair, but it does have its drawbacks
Finding the right root spray
If you’re experiencing hair loss, and you’re having to come to terms with balding patches or thinning hair, root spray can seem like a blessing. But you might have to try out a few different sprays before you find the right one. When testing sprays, bear in mind the following points:
- How many colours are on offer? Can I find a shade that matches my hair colour?
- Does the colour look natural on my hair?
- What does my hair look like once it’s been sprayed? Is it greasy? Does it look dusty?
- Will the spray hold up during exercise, or in the rain? Sprays are easily washed out. Even a small amount of rain can cause some sprays to run. In the worst cases, this can lead to unsightly blotches on clothes and visible traces on the face.
- Is the root spray easy to apply? Ideally the bottle shouldn’t drip: the spray should settle on the hair in a fine, even mist.
Root spray – how to use it
Root sprays are used in a similar way to hair sprays. First you need to shake the can thoroughly. Your hair should be dry before you apply the root spray. Now hold the can around 15 to 30 cm from your head and apply the spray evenly. The instructions on the can will tell you the optimum distance. The spray will settle on the hair and scalp, tinting them. Make sure the colour really matches your hair. The next time you wash your hair, you can just wash the root spray out.
Root sprays can’t help everyone affected by hair loss
With some forms of hair loss, such as diffuse hair loss, the hair thins without creating bald patches. As long as this process is not too far advanced, root spray can conceal hair loss effectively. With a receding hairline or circular hair loss, however, root sprays will not work. To create a natural look, the spray needs existing hair to attach itself to. If the spray is applied to bare skin, it will not look natural. In these cases, scalp micropigmentation is a good option. And if you want a long-term solution to your hair loss, scalp micropigmentation could be perfect for you.
With this innovative treatment, pigments are applied directly into the scalp and stay there. This creates the illusion of full hair. It can make thinning patches look thicker, and even give bald patches the appearance of full hair.