If you have ever tried to color your gray hair, you may have noticed that it does not always turn out the way you expected. Sometimes, the gray hair does not absorb the color at all, or it becomes a different shade than the rest of your hair. Why does this happen and what can you do to fix it?
The main reason why gray hair does not tint well is because of its structure. Gray hair is usually coarser, drier and more resistant to color than pigmented hair. This is because the melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color, also helps to protect it from damage and moisture loss. As we age, the melanin production in our hair follicles decreases, resulting in gray or white hair.
When you apply a hair color to your gray hair, it may not penetrate deeply enough into the hair shaft, or it may react differently with the remaining melanin. This can cause the color to fade quickly, or to look dull, brassy or uneven. To avoid this problem, you need to choose the right type of hair color and prepare your gray hair properly before coloring.
There are two main types of hair color: permanent and semi-permanent. Permanent hair color contains ammonia and peroxide, which open up the cuticle layer of the hair and deposit color molecules inside the cortex. This type of color lasts longer and can cover up to 100% of gray hair. However, it can also damage your hair if used incorrectly or too frequently.
Semi-permanent hair color does not contain ammonia or peroxide, and only coats the surface of the hair with color molecules. This type of color is gentler on your hair and fades gradually with washing. However, it can only cover up to 50% of gray hair and may not last as long as permanent color.
Depending on your desired result and the percentage of gray hair you have, you can choose either type of color. However, you should always follow the instructions on the package carefully and do a strand test before applying the color to your whole head. This will help you determine how long to leave the color on your hair and how it will look on your gray hair.
Another important step to prepare your gray hair for coloring is to moisturize it well. As mentioned earlier, gray hair tends to be drier and more brittle than pigmented hair, which can affect how it absorbs and holds color. To hydrate your gray hair, you should use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week before coloring. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or a serum to your damp hair after washing.
Moisturizing your gray hair will not only make it softer and shinier, but also more receptive to color. It will also help to prevent damage and breakage from the coloring process. However, you should avoid using any products that contain silicone or oil on your gray hair before coloring, as they can create a barrier that prevents the color from adhering properly.
By choosing the right type of color and moisturizing your gray hair well, you can achieve a beautiful and even result when coloring your gray hair. You can also enhance your natural beauty by choosing a color that complements your skin tone and eye color. Remember to always follow the directions on the package and do a strand test before coloring your whole head. And don’t forget to enjoy your new look!
Tags: Gray hair