A colour melt or root smudge is a targeted colour service that softens the line between your natural regrowth and lighter lengths. It creates a smoother blend at the root area, so highlights and balayage look more intentional and grow out with less contrast.
More information
What a colour melt or root smudge delivers
This service focuses on the root area to refine how your colour transitions from darker to lighter.
- Blends harsh regrowth into highlights or balayage
- Creates a softer, more natural shadow at the root
- Improves the overall balance of your colour without redoing the full head
- Helps colour look fresher for longer between bigger appointments
- Can be tailored for straight, wavy, curly, coily, and Afro textured hair
When this service is most useful
A root smudge or colour melt is ideal if you want your colour to look polished, but you do not have time for a full colour refresh.
It is a good fit if:
- Your highlights have grown out and the regrowth line feels too strong
- Your balayage needs a softer start point at the root
- You want a lower maintenance finish that still looks deliberate
- You are adjusting your root depth for a more natural, lived-in blend
What happens in the appointment
After a quick consultation, the root area is coloured and carefully blended into the mid lengths to remove any obvious line. The shade is chosen to suit your natural base and your existing colour, keeping the transition soft and even.
This service is typically 45 minutes. Depending on your hair and what result you want, you may be advised to pair it with a toner or finishing service.
Aftercare and how long it lasts
A well placed root smudge helps your colour grow out more evenly, so you can often go longer between major lightening or highlight appointments. To keep the blend looking clean, many people maintain it every 6 to 10 weeks, depending on growth and contrast.
Use colour safe shampoo and conditioner, and keep heat styling gentle to protect shine and tone.
Client Reviews
Based on 3 reviews
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Mollie Hampson
I went to McCrory Hair today for a cut, colour and style and I was booked in with Kalaya – she was absolutely AMAZING! She made me feel so comfortable from the minute I walked in, offered me a drink and even asked if she could get me something to eat since I was there for a few hours. Not only is she such a lovely person, she is also an incredibly talented hairdresser. I’m honestly SO happy with my hair – thank you so much Kalaya! 🙌✨ All of the other staff at McCrory Hair were just as wonderful and welcoming. The whole experience was 10/10 and I’ll definitely be going back. Would recommend them to absolutely anyone. Such a talented and friendly team! 💖✂️
- H
Helen Hollins
Kalaya is fantastic, she takes time to understand what I need and does a brilliant job every time. I always leave feeling amazing. All the staff are lovely and the salon is beautiful and calming. Can’t recommend enough! Thank you!
- C
Christine Hughes
I had a consultation with Seamus today. Regarding a colour, he was very knowledgeable and straightforward and advised me fully. I would definitely recommend, such a good salon.
