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We’ve gotten used to spending less time primping and more time doing all the things we love. While we’re still excited to get back out there with a polished style, we’re still looking for all the low-maintenance effort we can get. Luckily there are plenty of time-saving coloring techniques, multi-use products, and hair hacks to extend your free time while also achieving gorgeous hair. 

#1. Swap color styles

The much-loved ombre/sombre trend is back and better than ever. The technique, which involves a mix of balayage and baby lights and a more diffuse base, delivers a touch of brightness to strands with harsh lines of demarcation. The look is ideal for all shades craving a lighter look alongside dimension with a soft, natural finish. Because the foiling and hand painting is more forgiving than all-over color, the softened base will allow you to go longer in between touch-ups. 

2. Embrace texture

Looking for a way to adopt a wash and wear routine? Your cut may actually have something to do with it. The latest haircut trends all include a great deal of texture and layering, and these will essentially allow you to “wash and go” without a ton of styling. Whether you want a modern shag, textured bob, or long layers, adding texture instantly creates a style sans product. 

3. Make sleep styling work for you

Tousled, undone styles are in, so why not take advantage of the trend and embrace your bedhead! For easy beach waves, style damp hair into a loose braid before bed. In the morning, gently finger comb the waves, touch up any frizz with a curl wand and head out the door. For those wanting sleek strands, use a boar bristle brush to smooth damp hair flat to your head, then secure the hair in place using bobby pins. Repeat the process until all of your hair has been wrapped around your head, then tie on a silk scarf before going to sleep. In the morning, your hair will be smooth and frizz-free. 

4. Multi-use products are a must

Save time and cabinet space with multi-use products. A great swap is using a leave-in conditioner that also minimizes frizz or a texturizing spray that also provides hydration and hold. The key is to get the maximum amount of benefits with the least amount of steps (and bottles) possible.  

Product favorites:

Redken Oil For All

Redken Oil For All

KEVIN.MURPHY STAYING.ALIVE

Kevin Murphy Staying Alive Leave-In Conditioner

5. Extend time between wash days

Washing and drying you hair can take up serious time. Whether it is for the health of your hair, the impact on the environment or simply because you’re short on time, there are serious benefits to going longer between washes. Load up on a quality dry shampoo and start planning out styles that fit your schedule. For example, wash and blow-dry on Monday, add curls on Tuesday, enjoy the waves on Wednesday, and opt for a half-updo or sleek bun on Thursday to disguise oily roots.

Product favorites:

Redken Deep Clean Dry Shampoo Jumbo

Wella Professionals EIMI Dry Me Dry Shampoo