Shadow Root

the “new” trend that’s not so new!

A woman with long, voluminous blonde hair wearing a yellow and brown tank top sits in a car, smiling softly. The interior of the car and a glimpse of the blue sky through the window are visible.

By Alexandre Gilbert

If there’s one thing I love about hair trends, it’s how they come back with a fresh twist. The shadow root is having a moment, popping up on our social feeds, runways, and even red carpets. But let’s get real—it’s not exactly new! Legendary stylists like Luciano Cimmarrusti have been perfecting this soft, blended root effect for years, using techniques like the Shatush to create that naturally beautiful, sun-kissed look.

Here’s the tea: while some stylists are jumping on the shadow root bandwagon by taking shortcuts that can damage your hair, there’s a healthier, more effective way to achieve this dreamy look—without frying your strands.

The Trend vs. The Technique

Let’s set the record straight: shadow root is not a technique—it’s a trend. Essentially, it’s all about blending darker roots into lighter lengths for a smooth, dimensional finish. But the way stylists create that effect? That’s where it gets interesting!

Some salons go the quick and dirty route by bleaching all the way to the roots, only to recolor them darker afterward to create that shadow effect. It may look great for a few weeks, but the damage from over-bleaching, especially near your scalp, can leave hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

Luciano Cimmarrusti’s Approach: A Healthier Path to Beauty

Luciano has long been ahead of the game. Instead of following trends blindly, he stays true to techniques that honor your hair’s health and natural texture. One of his signature moves? The Shatush technique—a form of freehand, sunlit highlighting that avoids harsh, all-over bleaching and skips unnecessary coloring near the roots unless absolutely necessary.

The Shatush Secret: No Foils, No Fuss!

Unlike traditional highlighting methods that rely on foils to trap heat and speed up the process, Shatush is done completely freehand, without foils. Instead of wrapping your hair up in aluminum sheets, the colorist works in the open air, gently teasing sections of hair and painting the bleach onto the tips and mid-lengths to mimic the natural way hair lightens in the sun.

Why Shatush Is a Game-Changer:

  • No Foils, No Overheating: Foils can trap too much heat and lead to uneven or overly harsh color. Freehand painting keeps everything soft and controlled.
  • No Bleach Overload: Luciano’s approach keeps bleach far from the scalp, where your hair is more fragile.
  • Blended Brilliance: Shatush naturally enhances the contrast between roots and highlights, creating a soft shadow effect without root recoloring.
  • Minimal Damage: By strategically lightening only certain sections, your hair stays healthier, shinier, and softer.

Why Shadow Roots Done Right Are Worth the Hype

When done with care, a shadow root can be stunning. Here’s what makes this trend timeless when paired with the right approach:

  1. Effortless Elegance: The right shadow root melts seamlessly, making your hair look naturally sun-kissed and “lived-in.”
  2. Health First: Techniques like Shatush or strategic lowlights allow for that dimensional look without sacrificing your hair’s strength and softness.
  3. Longevity: A shadow root created with minimal damage will grow out beautifully, keeping your hair looking fresh for months.

The Danger of Overdoing It

When salons cut corners by bleaching everything first, your hair’s integrity can take a serious hit. If you’ve experienced that dreaded post-color “crunchy” feel, you know what I’m talking about. This is why I always say: trust a stylist who knows how to work with your hair, not against it. Luciano’s philosophy has always been about enhancing what you already have—without burning it away in the process.

How to Spot a Healthy Shadow Root Application:

  • Subtlety Is Key: Your stylist shouldn’t need to bleach to your scalp unless you’re going platinum.
  • Freehand Blending: Techniques like Shatush avoid hard lines and harsh sections and are done without foils for a softer, more natural finish.
  • Customized Shades: Your root color should complement—not clash with—your natural base.

The Takeaway: Trendy Doesn’t Have to Mean Damaging

While shadow roots are dominating right now, remember that not all approaches are created equal. What makes a shadow root truly special is when your stylist prioritizes both your look and your hair’s health. Instead of full bleach jobs and root recoloring, opt for professionals who use techniques like Shatush to achieve that seamless blend with minimal damage—and no foils needed!

In the hands of an expert like Luciano Cimmarrusti, your hair isn’t just a canvas—it’s a masterpiece in progress. So yes, go ahead and embrace the shadow root trend, but do it the smart way. Healthy, beautiful hair will always be in style.

Until next time—stay fabulous, stay glowing, and remember: your hair deserves the best!

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