Deciding to love and embrace your grey locks rather than continue to hide them, is a big one. You’ve showed up a certain way for years and now you’re coming out, so to speak. Not only will it be different for everyone else, you’ll see a whole new person in the mirror. The good news is she’s the real you.

Transitioning from dyed hair to your natural grey hair colour can be a journey of liberation and empowerment. It’s actually choosing authenticity and letting go of societal norms that once dictated youthfulness as the ultimate standard of beauty. It takes courage, but it’s worth it. If you’ve been wondering whether to keep up with the hair dye or not, this may help you decide.

Hair colour through the decades

Over the years many of us have believed we’d look better if we changed our hair colour and made it blonder, darker, warmer, cooler, or brighter. We seemed to believe our natural hair colour wasn’t as good or as flattering as it could be. We also bought into the idea we’d look younger if we didn’t show our grey hair, including men. Guilty by association – grey equals old. Really? There’s been such a stigma about grey hair, we’ve freaked out at the first sight of it and immediately gone into battle. We’ve also spent a small fortune along the way.

Natural beauty is true beauty

The fact is there is nothing wrong with your natural hair colour, even if it’s grey. You may have doubts when you see other women’s hair, but it’s a matter of perspective and everyone is different. Sure, it’s fun to tweak your colour or change your look, but when it comes to grey hair remember you have a choice – hide it or embrace it. Spend money on dyeing it every month or so (no judgement here by the way, each to their own) or liberate your locks. A word of encouragement – what you were born with is your natural colouring; a perfectly choreographed package, and it’s uniquely yours.

First signs of grey hair

For women who start to go grey early, for example in their thirties, it can be pretty confronting, especially when grey is synonymous with being old. So not true, as I’ve already said, but if it is happening to you why not embrace it? The choice is yours, but just keep in mind grey hair won’t stop you from having long, lush locks and looking fabulous!

Embracing the true you

The bottom line is when your hair starts to go grey, it doesn’t mean you’ll look bad, different yes, but not old. It’s a matter of opinion, I know, but if feeling good about yourself or how anyone else perceives you is closely tied in with your hair colour, it’s not ideal. I realise I’m being a little provocative here, but the aim is to encourage you to love your grey locks and be you, just the way you are. Lastly, but not least, the feeling of liberation you’ll experience once you’ve taken the plunge, or should I say done the big reveal is sooo good.

Going, going … grey

If you’re ready to love your grey locks, here are a few ways to navigate the transition. The journey will vary depending on whether your hair is dyed or not, and how dark it is. The process may also change and evolve along the way as you get used to seeing yourself in a new way.

The big reveal

One way to say goodbye to regrowth is to have the colour stripped out. This can be a long drawn out process to minimise hair damage and it may involve several visits to the salon. Talk to a colour professional about your hair and what it will take.

Slowly does it

For a slower transition you can gradually go lighter. Each time you have your roots done or your hair coloured, go a shade lighter. It’s worth getting a professional colourist to manage this process as grey hair tends to go orange.

Work with highs and lows

Use strategically placed highlights and/or lowlights. This approach lets your natural greys show through while softening the contrast between it and your old colour as it grows out. It can also let your salon visits be spread further apart.

New haircut and style

Another fast way to deal with old colour is to cut it out. Go for a shorter hair style that removes most of your dyed hair. Talk to your stylist about having the rest of the colour removed or softened. The key here is to go for a style that’s flattering to your face.

How to nurture grey hair

Grey hair has special needs for several reasons. Firstly, it no longer has pigment, so its texture and structure are different, plus it’s often more susceptible to environmental factors. To truly love your grey locks, you’ll need to make a shift in your hair care routine and give it a little extra TLC. Here’s how you can help maintain the health and vibrancy of your grey locks. If in doubt, talk to your hairdresser.

Hydration is essential

Grey hair tends to be drier and more prone to frizz. To keep it hydrated and nourished, switch to using moisturising shampoos and conditioners formulated for grey or dry hair. You may need to explore a few options before you find the right products for your hair type.

Intensive treatments

Grey hair can be more fragile and prone to brittleness. Applying an intensive repair or hydrating mask can help to keep it stronger and healthier, whether it’s a DIY home treatment or one done at a salon.

Protect from yellowing

Grey hair is susceptible to yellowing due to environmental factors such as sun exposure and pollutants. Use a violet-tinted shampoo or conditioner once a week to neutralise any yellow undertones and keep your grey hair bright and silvery.

Minimise heat styling

Excessive heat styling can further dry out grey hair and contribute to brittleness. Embrace your hair’s natural texture by allowing it to dry naturally or use heat styling tools sparingly, and always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.

Regular trims

Keep your grey locks looking fresh and healthy by scheduling regular trims every 6-8 weeks. This helps prevent split ends and maintains the overall shape of your hairstyle.

Living with and loving grey locks

While natural grey hair is inherently beautiful there are ways you can enhance how flattering it is and make it your crowning glory.

Play with tonal variations

Grey hair comes in various shades, from soft silver to steel grey. Experimenting with variations with the help of highlights, lowlights, or toning treatments can add dimension and depth to grey locks.

Match your skin tone

When choosing to add dimension or play up your grey, always consider your skin tone when looking for shades that complement your complexion. Cool tone greys typically suit fairer skin tones, while warmer greys can complement olive or darker skin tones.

Accessorise thoughtfully

Accessories such as scarves, hats, jewellery, makeup and lipstick shades can accentuate your grey hair and add a touch of elegance and/or personality to your overall look. Experiment with different pieces and colours to find styles that compliment your hair colour and personality.

Confidence is key

Ultimately, the most flattering attribute for grey hair is confidence.

Embrace your natural beauty with pride and carry yourself with grace and self-assurance. There’s nothing more attractive than a woman who embraces her authentic self.

Love You. Love Life.