Dramatic Color
You can do easy root touch-ups at home, but “when you’re making a big
shade change, like brunette to blonde, there’s no substitute for the salon,” says Aura Friedman, a Wella colorist who routinely helps M.I.A switch shaders
Cuts
Investing in a great haircut that grows out without losing its shape can mean less time and money spent on products and maintenance. Keep in mind that”regular trims are imperative for women with finer hair to prevent split ends and limp strands,” says San Diego salon owner Jet Rhys
Highlights & Lowlights
Strategically placed color will grow in better, meaning fewer touch-ups. “For fall, I prefer to paint deeper tones on the underside of hair so that it looks natural as it grows out,” says Friedman. “Or if you love a celebrity’s hair in a photo, only a professional colorist will know where to apply highlights and lowlights. You can’t get that from a box.”