Going grey is a natural part of the aging process for many people. By the age of 50, about 50% of the population has at least some grey hair. For those who wish to cover up their greys, using a permanent base color is a popular option. Base color provides complete grey coverage and lasts 4-6 weeks on average before root greyness becomes visible again. When choosing a base color to cover greys, there are a few key considerations:
Choosing a Base Shade
The most important factor in choosing a base color for covering greys is selecting the right shade. Going too light or too dark can result in an unnatural look. Here are some tips on choosing the ideal base shade:
– Match your natural hair color as closely as possible. Look at childhood photos to help determine your natural shade.
– Go slightly lighter but not more than 2 shades lighter if your goal is to brighten your appearance.
– Stay within 2 shades darker if you want to enhance depth without looking overly dark.
– Go darker if your natural hair is light blonde or gray to avoid roots being too obvious.
– Consider adding lowlights or highlights after applying base color for added dimension.
Cool vs Warm Undertones
In addition to shade, pay attention to the undertones of your natural hair color and choose a base that matches. Cool undertones range from ash to beige blonde while warm undertones include gold, ginger, and auburn.
| Undertone | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Cool | Ashy, mousy, silver |
| Warm | Golden, strawberry, coppery |
If you have a mix of undertones, aim for a neutral base color.
Permanent vs Demi-Permanent Color
Permanent base color provides complete grey coverage that lasts 4-6 weeks. It contains ammonia to open the cuticle and lift original shade. Demi-permanent color washes out gradually and blends grey roots with artificial pigment. It lacks ammonia so damage is minimized. Consider a demi-permanent if your greys are minimal. For significant greying, a permanent base is best for full coverage.
Application Considerations
Proper application of permanent base color is key to maximizing results:
– Start with freshly washed hair – dirt and oil can affect coloring results.
– Use a clarify shampoo 1-2 days before coloring to remove residue.
– Apply petroleum jelly to hairline and ears to avoid staining skin.
– Section clean, towel-dried hair into four quadrants and clip up top layers.
– Wear gloves and work from back to face, applying color evenly.
– Use a tint brush to fully saturate greying roots.
– Process for full time recommended by manufacturer.
– Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
– Follow with a color-safe conditioner or mask.
After Care
How you care for colored hair impacts longevity. Be sure to:
– Use sulfate-free shampoo made for color-treated hair.
– Rinse with cool water instead of hot.
– Limit washing to 2-3 times per week.
– Use a deep conditioning mask weekly.
– Allow hair to air dry when possible to prevent fading.
– Protect hair from sun exposure with a hat or products.
Maintenance
As your new growth comes in, your roots will start to show in 4-6 weeks. Book a touch-up appointment with your stylist 4 weeks after your initial color to keep greys covered. The timing will depend on your rate of grey growth. Inform your stylist before booking if you develop skin sensitivities or reactions to the color. Maintenance appointments generally take less time.
Finding a Qualified Colorist
Having your permanent base color done professionally is recommended for best results. Find a licensed colorist with experience doing grey coverage and consultations. Be sure to have a patch test done 48-72 hours before your appointment to check for allergies. Share your goal shade and bring example photos. Book a follow-up 4 weeks later to maintain your results. With proper application and after care, your new base color should keep grey hairs fully concealed until your next touch-up.
Common Base Colors Used to Cover Grey Hair
There are a range of base shade options for covering greys depending on your starting hair color and tone. Here are some of the most common:
| Natural Hair Color | Recommended Base Shades for Grey Coverage |
|---|---|
| Dark brown | Level 3 or 4 neutral brown |
| Medium brown | Level 5 neutral brown |
| Light brown | Level 6 beige blonde or ash brown |
| Dark blonde | Level 7 neutral blonde |
| Medium blonde | Level 8 beige blonde |
| Light blonde | Level 9 pale beige blonde |
Choosing a shade within 2 levels of your natural gives the most natural-looking results. Staying in the same color family also prevents obvious root regrowth. Keep in mind your skin tone as well. Warm complexions look best in golden base colors while cool complexions suit ash and beige tones. Your colorist can help determine the most flattering options.
Permanent Base Colors for Dark Hair
Those with naturally dark brown or black hair have a wider range of base color options when covering greys. Here are some top shade choices:
– Soft black – Adds depth and richness without being too harsh.
– Dark neutral brown – A natural shade that blends away grays. Go for a blue-based tone to cancel redness.
– Espresso – A deep chocolate brown that flatters olive and tan complexions.
– Dark chocolate – A rich, warm shade that adds vibrancy to dark hair.
– Chestnut – A reddish brown hue that brings warmth to medium-dark skin tones.
– Dark auburn – A vibrant red-brown that enlivens and intensifies dark hair.
Permanent Bases for Light Hair
On lighter hair colors, grey roots are quicker to show through. But the right light neutral base can camouflage greys beautifully. Here are top shades for blonde and grey ha
