What Is A Root Tap And How Can I Achieve One?
Published date 10 July 2026
What exactly is a root tap, and how do I achieve one with my clients?
If your blonde clients are asking for a softer, more lived-in colour that grows out seamlessly, then it’s time to get to know the root tap. Over the last few years, we’ve seen clients move away from the bright, solid blondes, and towards a more natural-looking colour that requires less maintenance between appointments. And that’s exactly where a root tap comes in. Using Quif Magi:gloss, and the knowledge of our Quif Educator, Sara Simspon, we discuss how creating a seamless root tap has never been easier. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating the ultimate root tap with your clients.
What is a root tap?
Sara tells us that a root tap is a light application of colour placed directly at the root area, before being softly blended into the mid-lengths. Unlike a strong root shadow, a root tap is designed to subtly soften the root area without creating an obvious band of colour. The result creates a beautifully blended blonde that looks softer and natural, and grows out far more seamlessly.
Why should you use a root tap?
A root tap is a great technique to have in your colour technique bank, especially when working with blondes. Here’s when a root can be used in your salon:
- To soften a harsh regrowth line
- To break up a solid blonde at the root
- To add subtle depth without creating a heavy root shadow
- To create a softer, lived-in blonde finish
- To reduce the contrast between the natural base and lighter lengths
A root tap is also perfect for clients who love being blonde but don't want the commitment of frequent appointments, meaning you’re still giving them a reason to come back to the salon a lot sooner than usual. It’s a win win for you and your client!
When should you use a root tap?
You might be thinking, ‘When is the most appropriate time to use a root tap with clients?’. Sara suggests a root tap works particularly well:
- After a full head of blonding when the roots feel too bright
- To soften highlights that begin too close to the scalp
- For clients wanting a lower maintenance blonde
- Whenever a softer, more natural grow-out is the goal
How to create a root tap with Quif Magi:gloss
One of the reasons Quif Magi:gloss works so well for root taps is due to its high-shine and translucent finish, which allows you to create beautiful depth without leaving the colour look flat or heavy. Sara explains exactly how you can create a root tap with your clients using Magi:gloss…
1. Choose your Magi:gloss shade
Select a Magi:gloss .0 Natural shade that’s around two levels deeper than your target blonde. The Natural (.0) collection, available from Level 10 through to Level 3 Brown, provides the depth and structure needed to anchor the colour while maintaining a soft finish. If you’d like to introduce additional warmth or tone, simply combine your chosen shade with the appropriate .0 Natural shade to ensure the root still has the depth needed for a seamless blend.
2. Apply at the root
Apply your formula directly to the root area only. Using a soft tint brush (or your fingers if preferred), gently feather the colour down around 0.5-2cm into the hair to create a seamless transition into the lighter lengths.
Pro tip: To avoid oversaturating the hair, Sara recommends using only a small amount of product, as applying too much can cause the gloss to travel further down the hair than intended.
3. Process
Leave the colour to process for between 20-30 minutes, depending on the level of depth you’re looking to achieve.
4. Rinse & finish
Rinse thoroughly before shampooing once with a colour-safe shampoo, then finish with conditioner to leave the hair feeling healthy, glossy and of course, beautifully blended.
The finished ‘root tap’ result
A root tap is one of the simplest ways to elevate your blonde service, as it gives clients that expensive finish that’s become super popular in salons. Using Quif Magi:gloss allows you to create soft depth easily, with a beautiful shine and a seamless grow-out to help your blondes stay looking fresher for longer. Ready to give a root tap a go with your next client? Don’t forget to post your results over on our community page ‘Glow & Tell’ via Alan Howard Connect.
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