Gray hair lacks pigment.
Gray hair lacks pigment, rendering it coarser and drier than its melanin-rich counterparts. This texture change may occur naturally with normal aging or as the result of chemical dyes or treatments such as chemotherapy.
Combatting coarseness with the right products
To combat the coarseness and dryness of gray hair, try using a salt-free conditioning wash or sulfate-free hydrating shampoo and conditioner.
– After washing, rinse an apple cider vinegar once weekly to remove product build-up and prevent further damage.
Addressing the causes of texture change
Texture change in gray hair is not solely determined by genetics or age. Menopause, stress, smoking, and other factors also play a significant role.
– Make lifestyle changes to help prevent dry and coarse locks, such as limiting exposure to sulfate or silicone products.
Hydration and nourishment
Hydration is vital to keeping gray hair healthy and smooth.
– Use a nourishing hair serum with built-in heat protection to add moisture and protect against damage. CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray is a recommended option.
– Consider getting a professional short haircut to reduce tangles and static during the growing out stage.
Dealing with dryness
Gray hair may become dry due to losing its protective color cuticle.
– Daily nourishing treatments containing shea butter, olive oil, or coconut oil moisturize the hair. These ingredients provide essential hydration for gray hair.
– Address the yellow tint that may develop in gray hair by consulting a salon stylist or trichologist to neutralize unwanted brassy tones.
Fighting frizz
Gray hair often feels dry and frizzy due to hormonal changes that decrease oil production.
– Use products with film-forming humectants and emollients to fully hydrate the strands and reduce frizz.
– Look for products designed to address brassiness caused by dyes or natural oil build-up on the scalp.
– Consider a haircut that compliments your face shape to reduce the contrast between dark and light strands, or go for a sophisticated shortcut to avoid the awkward growing-out stage.
Restoring dullness
Gray hair may lose its shine and radiance over time.
– Toning shampoos and conditioners can help neutralize unwanted tones and make the hair strands appear brighter and vibrant.
– Moisturize gray hair regularly, as it has more room for conditioning and penetrating through its cuticles.
– Choose moisturizing deep conditioners and styling products with a light hold to avoid product build-up.
Managing unmanageability
Gray hair can be prone to product and environmental build-up, making it difficult to manage.
– Use a clarifying shampoo at least once a week or switch to sulfate-free options to avoid stripping the hair of its natural oils.
– Seek non-toxic options for hair care products using resources like Think Dirty.
Embracing or disguising grays
Some prefer to cover up their grays, blend them into their hair color, or embrace full-on gray locks.
– Use a clarifier to reduce discoloration and conditioning treatments like Olaplex Number 3 to prevent split ends, depending on your desired outcome.
