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Grey Hair

Printed From: HairBoutique.com
Category: Hair Talk
Forum Name: General Hair Talk
Forum Description: A free wheeling discussion of hair related topics.
URL: https://talk.hairboutique.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4929
Printed Date: July 27 2025 at 8:11am


Topic: Grey Hair
Posted By: Montana
Subject: Grey Hair
Date Posted: April 23 2001 at 9:43pm
I am a 40 year old who has been dying her hair brunette (natural color) since greying prematurely at age 19. I am extremely tired of the every six week ritual of having to re-dye my hair. This regimen has taken its toll on my once healthy, fairly wavy, thick hair. My hair is currently chin length and I would like some suggestions on how to gracefully let my hair go grey or I am open to other options. My hair texture is coarse and from what I can tell by the notorious roots that pop up so quickly, I am 98% grey/white?



Replies:
Posted By: Merlin
Date Posted: April 24 2001 at 8:13am
Reply to message: viewthread.asp?forum=AMB%5FAP804060353&id=1742&page=1#21.1742.1 - 21.1742.1
You sound like a perfect candidate as it`s best to be at least 40 percent gray before you stop coloring your hair. Less than that and the contrasting colors and textures could create a straggly or unkempt look.

Once you decide to take the plunge, remember that this will be a long process, so be patient. You won`t have a head of silvery hair overnight, but in time you`ll achieve the beautiful new look you are seeking.

My first recommendation is to cut your hair as short as you comfortably can to eliminate the old color. Bringing the bottom up will make the growing out process much easier. Once your hair is gray all over, I suggest not letting it get longer than chin-length anyway. A blunt, chin-length cut with clean lines will keep your look stylish and fresh and your hair healthy.

I also recommend weaving in some lowlights and hightlights as you begin the growing out process. Lowlights that are a few shades deeper than your base color will effectively de-emphasize your roots as the gray starts growing in. Then you can slowly grow out the single process color and highlights and phase out the lowlights last.

Once you`re allover gray, you need to take special care of your new hair. Gray hair is very sensitive to the elements. When it gets too long, it can yellow at the ends as it reacts with free radicals in the environment. There are shampoos specifically formulated for gray hair that help eliminate dulling yellow tones. They can be drying, though, so alternate with a moisturizing shampoo. In addition, you should always deep condition once a week to keep your hair soft and silky. In terms of styling, avoid alcohol- or silicone-based styling products because they will dry out your hair. A little bit of gel will do the trick to smooth out your look and calm any flyaways.

Good luck and be patient. Let us know how you are progressing.


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Merlin