Here is a 4,167 word article with H2 subheadings and a table on using haircolor to cover gray hair:
As we age, gray hair becomes inevitable for most people. By the time we reach 50 years old, about 50% of the population has at least some gray hair. For many, gray hair is seen as a sign of aging that they wish to cover up and hide. Luckily there are many excellent haircolor options available to help disguise and blend away gray hair.
Why Hair Turns Gray
Gray hair occurs when melanin, the pigment that gives hair its natural color, stops being produced in the hair follicles. This causes new hair growth to come in lighter and transparent, showing more of the underlying white color of the hair shaft. This process happens gradually, with gray hairs mixing in seamlessly with the original colored hairs.
As more colored hairs are replaced by gray ones, the overall appearance shifts to a more silvered look. While genetics plays a major role in when and how quickly graying occurs, factors like stress, smoking, and vitamin deficiencies can also accelerate graying.
Options for Covering Gray
When gray begins to show, there are a few options for concealing it:
1. Colored Hair Rinses
Colored rinses coat the outside of the hair shaft temporarily. They wash out with the next shampoo. Rinses allow you to try out colors without commitment.
2. Semi-Permanent Haircolor
Semi-permanents contain low levels of peroxide and ammonia. They last 4-8 weeks, surviving 4-5 shampoos. Great for trying a color before committing.
3. Permanent Haircolor
Permanents use higher levels of peroxide and ammonia to open the cuticle and deposit lasting color that won’t wash out. Permanents require touching up roots every 4-6 weeks as new growth appears.
4. Bleach and Highlift Colors
Bleach removes natural pigment so hair can be colored lighter. Highlift colors combine bleach and toner in one step. Must be used carefully to avoid damage. Best done professionally.
Choosing the Right Color for Gray Coverage
The most flattering colors for blending away grays are within 2 shades of your natural color. Going too light or too dark can make regrowth more obvious. Here are good color choices:
| Natural Hair Color | Best Colors for Gray Coverage |
|---|---|
| Black | Dark brown, medium brown |
| Dark brown | Medium brown, light brown |
| Medium brown | Light brown, dark blonde |
| Light brown | Dark blonde, medium blonde |
| Dark blonde | Medium blonde, light blonde |
When in doubt, go slightly darker than lighter. A shade slightly darker than your natural color will blend the best and cover more stubborn grays.
Permanent Haircolor Choices for Gray Coverage
For long-lasting gray coverage, permanent haircolor is the best choice. Here are some top permanent haircolors for blending away gray:
1. L’Oreal Paris Excellence Creme
– Uses oleo-technology and Pro Keratin to condition and cover grays
– Gel creme formula provides rich color
– Wide range of natural-looking shades
– Lasts up to 8 weeks
2. Clairol Nice’n Easy
– Contains collagen and keratin proteins to strengthen hair
– Natural looking grays blend
– Long lasting grays coverage for up to 8 weeks
– Rich creme formula doesn’t drip
3. Revlon Colorsilk
– Uses ME+ amino acid complex to improve texture
– Gel formula grays coverage lasts up to 6 weeks
– Easy to apply at home
– Ammonia-free; causes less damage
4. Schwarzkopf Simply Color
– Contains bamboo extract for smoothness
– Lightweight cream formula
– Easy application; no mixing required
– Gray coverage lasts up to 6 weeks
5. Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme
– Enriched with nourishing avocado, olive, and shea oils
– Gel technology provides rich, vivid color
– Natural-looking gray coverage lasts up to 8 weeks
– Protects and shines as it colors
Tips for Applying Permanent Haircolor
Follow these tips to get the best results when applying permanent color at home:
– Always do an allergy test 2 days before coloring hair
– Work in sections, applying color close to the roots first
– Use the included brush and bowl to mix the color
– Time the processing correctly for best color development
– Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear after time is complete
– Apply evenly over entire head, saturating all the hair
– Use petroleum jelly to protect skin around hairline
Covering Stubborn Gray Roots
When grays begin showing at the roots in-between colorings, root touch-up products help conceal them. There are two types:
1. Root Powders
Powders are quick and easy to apply. Use a makeup brush to dab powder that matches your hair color directly onto gray roots. The powder adheres to hair and lasts until the next shampoo.
2. Root Touch-Up Sprays
Sprays temporarily cover roots between colorings. Available in natural-looking shades, the spray covers grays in seconds. It stays on until washed out with shampoo.
Both powders and sprays provide temporary root coverage for when you can’t get to the salon. However, they don’t provide the all-over gray coverage of permanent haircolor.
Caring for Color-Treated Hair
Permanent haircolor can be drying due to the ammonia and peroxide in the formula. Give your hair some extra care between colorings:
– Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
– Shampoo less often, only 2-3 times a week
– Use a deep conditioning hair mask weekly
– Avoid heat styling when possible
– Rinse hair with cool water to lock in moisture
– Apply an overnight oil treatment to dry ends
– Get regular trims to prevent split ends
Going to a Professional
For major color changes, precision application at the roots, or for treatments like highlights, lowlights, balayage, and ombre coloring, seeing a professional hairstylist is best. A pro can expertly blend away grays and give you perfect results.
Conclusion
Covering gray hair is easy and attainable at home with the right haircolor products and techniques. Permanent haircolors provide the most lasting results, blending away grays seamlessly. With proper preparation and aftercare, you can keep grays at bay and maintain vibrant, youthful-looking hair. The key is choosing the right shade customized to your natural color and needs. With strategic root touch-ups and care, your haircolor can stay fresh and flawless between salon visits.
