Woke up, glanced in the mirror, and—there they are again: those sneaky grey strands making an unexpected appearance.
Whether you’re in your 20s or 50s, greys have a way of showing up uninvited, especially when you’re pressed for time.
But don’t worry, you don’t need a full-on salon appointment to deal with them.
With just five minutes (yes, really), you can cover those greys and be out the door looking fresh, polished, and totally unbothered.
Here’s how to keep your hair game strong, even when the clock is ticking.
1. Root touch-up spray
One of the fastest and easiest options out there, root touch-up sprays blend away greys instantly.
Why it works: The spray gives your greys a quick color hit that matches your natural hair, covering regrowth on the spot.
How to use it: Shake the bottle, target the roots and any visible grey strands, wait a minute, then brush through.
Time needed: Under 2 minutes for full coverage.
Pro tip: Pick a shade that closely matches your base color and dust a little translucent powder over it to set
2. Hair mascara
Think of it as waterproof makeup, but for your hair, hair mascara is a lifesaver for zoom calls or Zoom face-offs.
Why it works: The wand applies directly onto greys, one strand at a time for precise coverage.
How to use it: Swipe the wand over greys at the hairline or parting, and you’re good to go.
Time needed: About 3–5 minutes, depending on your hairline.
Pro tip: Get a wand with a small brush head for better control and let it dry for a minute before styling.
3. Hair colour powder or touch-up stick
These dry-packed products are literal lifesavers and come in powder or stick form.
Why it works: They instantly mask greys and blend with your natural roots.
How to use it: Rub the stick or dab the powder onto the roots and rub it in – no water needed.
Time needed: 2–3 minutes max.
Pro tip: Use a cotton swab or clean brush to blend it out seamlessly along the hairline.
4. Clip-in extensions or a scarf
When you’re not completely sold on a spray or powder, try clip-in extensions or a stylish scarf/headband.
Why it works: You’re covering the greys entirely, no colour needed.
How to use clip-ins: Part your hair, clip them in where greys peek through, and blend with your natural hair.
How to use a scarf/headband: Fold a scarf into a neat band, tie it over your hairline, and you’re instantly chic and grey-free.
Time needed: 3–5 minutes for clip-ins; 1–2 minutes for a scarf.
Pro tip: Choose a scarf that complements your outfit or skin tone for style points
5. Bobby pin concealer trick
When you’re in full nap-mode and need a 5-minute fix, grab bobby pins and leftover eyeshadow or concealer.
Why it works: A surprising but effective hack for small greys along your hairline.
How to use it: Pin hair back to expose a grey strand or patch. Dab a tiny bit of powder eyeshadow or stick concealer onto the hair, then brush to blend.
Time needed: 4–5 minutes.
Pro tip: Match the makeup shade to your hair color and keep a travel-sized makeup compact in your purse for emergencies.
Why these tricks work
- All are quick and portable – perfect for travel, busy mornings, or last-minute events.
- They’re temporary, so no long-term commitment or damage to hair.
- Minimal tools needed, and most work with products you already own.
- 5-min morning routine that covers it all:
- Shower & dry your roots
- Use root spray or powder on visible grey spots
- Swipe hair mascara over stubborn strands
- Pin clip-ins or tie a scarf
- Brush everything, set with powder or light hairspray, and you’re out the door
Wrapping it up: Quick fix, major confidence
Grey hair? No biggie. With these 5 easy methods, you can refresh your look in just 5 minutes or less – and feel polished, confident, and put-together instantly.
So next time you’re rushing for a meeting or dashing out for a date, remember: a few sprays, wands, powders or even a chic scarf, can save the day. That fresh, grey-free look is always within reach.
