Recently, ‘how to prevent grey hair’ has become a breakout Google search. It seems the beauty landscape is divided, by those who are keen to cover their greys, and those lathering in the purple shampoo to achieve it (you’re on trend, silver foxes). If you’re team ‘cover up’, keep reading. We spoke to the hair pros at Wella to get the expert intel on what to do when the greys appear.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 What's the deal with grey hair?
If you’re wondering why hair turns grey, there’s a science to it. Our hair is naturally coloured by melanin pigment and, as we age, the production of this pigment slows down. Suzanne Alphonse – Wella’s Technical Education Manager – tells us "hair without melanin is much more dehydrated in texture". That doesn’t mean you can’t manage it (your hair will just need a little extra attention).
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2 What should I use to colour my greys?
Because of its texture “when colouring grey, or white, hair you really need to use the right product”, continues Suzanne. “Some traditional permanent hair colours can look heavy – not natural – so it’s important to find a colouring product that achieves blended results, while nourishing the hair throughout the process (to prevent further dehydration).” Suzanne’s suggestion? Highlights.
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3 How do I protect my colour?
Highlights are a seamless way to cover your greys, according to the pros. ‘It’s very low maintenance’, and won’t require any ‘lifting’ of your main base colour. ‘To keep highlights looking fresh, use colour-preserving shampoos and conditioners like Blonde Recharge from the Wella Invigo range to keep highlights looks fresh'. So highlights are the method, and nourishing products are the answer to long-lasting results. If you're struggling to embrace your greys, hunt out a Wella salon.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
Why does your hair turn grey as you get older?
Your hair turns grey because melanin pigment production slows down with age. Melanin gives hair its natural colour, and as its levels drop, hair loses colour and can appear more dehydrated in texture.
What products should you use to colour grey hair?
For grey or white hair, you should use a colouring product that blends and nourishes. Many traditional permanent colours can look heavy, so highlights are recommended for a more natural finish and to help prevent dehydration.
How do you keep your highlights looking fresh if you have greys?
Use colour-preserving shampoos and conditioners to keep your highlights fresh. Products like those from the Wella Invigo Blonde Recharge range help maintain the colour and nourish your hair for longer-lasting results.
Is it low maintenance to cover grey hair with highlights?
Yes, covering grey hair with highlights is considered low maintenance. Highlights blend seamlessly with your natural hair and don’t require lifting your main base colour, making upkeep easier.
Where can you book a salon appointment to cover greys?
You can book beauty services online with Treatwell at a variety of salons. The process is simple and hassle-free, so you can arrange appointments on the go at your convenience.