Question 1

What is the least painful way to go gray?

Accepted Answer

This really depends on your personality - if it would upset you to go gray overnight, then the cold turkey method might be the best for you as it takes a while to grow out your gray and that gives you time to get used to the idea of no longer being a blonde/brunette/redhead.

If, on the other hand, you want to go gray in one fell swoop, buzzing off all your dye is the quickest way to go.

If you don't want to cut your hair short, don't want a demarcation line (aka "skunk stripe"), and don't want to risk damage to your hair via bleaching/blending, the dye strip technique is the perfect solution for you.

Question 2

What is the most expensive way to go gray?

Accepted Answer

Salon transitions to gray hair can be very expensive depending on the condition of your hair, the color of your dyed hair, the expertise of your hairdresser, and the amount of upkeep necessary.

If you decide to go this route, it's best to find an experienced hairdresser to avoid damaging your hair. Check out my salon directory for preferred stylists, and watch this video for expert advice.

Question 3

What is the best way to go gray from dark brunette hair?

Accepted Answer

Dark brunette hair is tricky - salon transitions generally involve some degree of bleaching to remove the dark dye. Depending on the condition of your hair, this could result in damaged, broken hair.

Many women with dark brunette dye choose to grow out their gray hair cold turkey, cut out the dye, or use the dye strip technique to disguise their grow-out.

Another option is to use wigs and let your gray hair grow out cold turkey underneath the wig.

If none of those options appeal to you, and your hair is relatively healthy, find a salon that is experienced in doing gray hair transitions. You can find gray-friendly salons in my directory, and check out this facebook page for inspiration.

Question 4

Can't I just dye my hair gray and skip the whole transition?

Accepted Answer

This could be an option if your hair is naturally very light-colored already (pale blonde is best).

But if your hair is dark brunette, you will have to bleach it to a pale blonde before dyeing it gray, and that bleach can damage your hair. Are you willing to take that risk?

Transitioning to Gray Hair

How to Go Gray from Colored Hair

The Dye Strip Technique for Going Gray in Secret

Going Gray During Lockdown? Help Is on the Way!

How to Embrace Your Gray Hair Even When You’re Not Ready

Why You Should Transition to Gray Hair This Year

A Conversation About Hair Dye Safety with Ronnie Citron-Fink, Author of True Roots

How to Deal with an Unsupportive Stylist When You Are Going Gray on Purpose

Why and How to Go Gray with Long Hair

10 Proven Ways to Make Your Cold Turkey Gray Hair Transition Fun!

How to Go Gray at the Salon

The Surprising Truth about Transitioning to Gray Hair

3 Reasons Why Going Gray is a Big Freaking Deal

7 Weird Things That Happen When You Go Gray

Katie Goes Platinum

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