How to Cover Gray Roots and Thinning Hair in 30 Seconds (Step-by-Step Demo)
Thinning hair is one of the most common (and misunderstood) changes women experience as they age. As a former model, licensed esthetician, and celebrity makeup artist, I’ve worked with women at every stage of life, and I can tell you this with confidence: thinning hair is completely normal and happens to almost everyone.
It doesn’t mean your hair is unhealthy. It doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It simply means your hair, scalp, and hormones are changing, and your beauty routine needs to adapt.
In this tutorial, I’m sharing exactly how I have used hair powderon set, but my model this time ismy friend, Karyn. Together, we will cover her grey or discolored roots and instantly create the appearance of fuller hair.
Where Thinning Hair Shows Up First
Most women notice thinning in the same areas:
- Along the front hairline
- At the temples
- Down the part
As density changes, the scalp becomes more visible, especially in bright lighting. The darker your hair, the more noticeable the grey roots. The goal isn’t to hide this completely; it’s to reduce contrast so hair looks naturally fuller.
Why I Use Instant Coverage Hairline Powder
When I work with mature hair, I look for products that are:
- Matte (never shiny)
- Easy to control
- Buildable
- Forgiving
I’ve used several different hair powder brands, and I look for color and texture that blends seamlessly into the scalp and hair. The product I use in the video comes in six shades, making it suitable for brunettes, blondes, and women with silver or grey hair.
Pro tip for grey hair: Choose a soft grey or taupe shade that mimics natural shadow rather than trying to match hair color exactly.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Hairline Powder
- Start with clean, dry hair.
- Use light tapping motions (never swipe).
- Focus on the hairline and temples first.
- Lightly soften the part.
- Build gradually.
The moment scalp shine and contrast are reduced, hair appears thicker. On Karyn, I use the shade Ash Brown from PrimePrometics to darken her roots and add thickness.
Styling Techniques That Enhance Fullness
Hairline powder works best when paired with smart styling:
- Soft curls for movement
- Gentle backcombing at the crown
- A light mist of flexible hairspray
Pro tip: For the most part, backcomb before applying hairline powder for the most natural finish.
Why Hair and Makeup Should Work Together
As you watch the video, you’ll see as Karyn’s hair begins to look fuller, she is able to wear stronger eyeliner and lipstick. Because of this, I applied a black eyeliner on the top eyeline and blended it for a softer look.
Then I applied a soft taupe all over her lid called Afterglow, and a Mocha liner in her waterline to bring out the gold flecks in her eyes. On her lips, I applied a Nude Rose lip oil for both hydration and a shiny, luscious color.
“This Changed My Life”
Having thinning hair and constantly struggling with roots showing can feel demoralizing. Using simple products like hair powder can make a huge difference in feeling pretty and being able to wear stronger makeup looks. Karyn loved her new look, and actually felt like she could do this at home.
Add Your Thoughts:
Do you struggle with thinning hair and pronounced roots? What has worked for you and what do you think of hair powder?
What was the brand of eye makeup?
Hi Charlotte, It is PrimePrometics.com. Use the code THEBEAUTYSHAMAN for 10% off:)
I have a natural part and hair thinning at the crown. I’ve been using Toppix hair fibers to cover the area where you can see my scalp. It covers the “see thru” area, which makes me feel more confident about my appearance.
Hi Linda, Hair fibers are great and add discretion to thinning hair for sure:)