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Beauty

How to Grow Out and Maintain Gorgeous Gray Hair

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Do you find yourself constantly dying your hair in an attempt to hide those gray roots? Spending an awful lot of time and money in the hair salon can often become a struggle, which is why so many women are choosing to swap the dye to embrace their naturally gray hair. If you’re unsure, take a look at our tips on how to grow out and maintain gorgeous gray hair. 

How does the sun affect gray hair?

It isn’t just your skin that can be damaged by the sun, explains Anabel Kingsley, Trichologist at Philip Kingsley. “Gray and white hair lacks the protective pigment melanin, making your hair more vulnerable to sun damage.” If you’re going to be in the sun for a prolonged period of time, it’s extra-important to use a protective product or wear a hat. Try this one from Sun Bum (Buy on Amazon, $19.99).

How do I maintain my gray hair?

Gray hair needs regular maintenance to stay looking its best. As our hair ages it becomes finer and feels coarser, which can leave hair flat and tricky to style. Regular trims every six weeks will help make styling easier and if you’re in a rut talk to your hairdresser about giving your style a refresh. There are lots of celebrities that have welcomed their natural hue — Helen Mirren and Judi Dench are proof that gray can be glamorous! 

How to Brighten Dull Gray Hair

Keeping your hair clean is the key to shiny locks. “Dirt shows up faster on gray hair, so shampoo and condition at least every other day to keep your strands glossy,” advises Anabel. Using a clarifying shampoo occasionally is also a good idea to get rid of hair-dulling product residue. Also, purple toned shampoos are essential. “Gray hair, can easily become brassy and dull, so to counteract yellow tones, use violet colored products regularly,” suggests Anabel. Try this shampoo and conditioner set from Art Naturals (Buy on Amazon, $24.95).

How do I keep gray hair in good condition?

As well as conditioning after every wash, a regular hair mask will provide a much-needed moisture boost. “Gray hair is usually dryer and lacks shine,” explains Anabel. “Regularly using a conditioning treatment will help to hydrate the hair and smooth the cuticle for a healthy shine.” Try this one from Luneta (Buy on Amazon, $26).

What make-up suits gray hair?    

If you grow out gray hair, you may find your usual make-up needs adjusting to make the most of your new look. Less is definitely more, but that doesn’t mean going paler. If your brows are going gray, then adding a little darker definition with a brow pencil or gel one or two shades darker will help frame your face and highlight your eyes. A pop of lip color is also a great way to brighten up your look overall and will help show off your lighter locks. 

This article originally appeared on our sister site, Yours.

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