How To Transition To Gray Hair If You're A Hair Dye Devotee

ADEL ATELIER FOR BYRDIE MAGAZINE

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Let’s talk about gray hair. Despite what society tells you, grays are not something to “fight” or “cover-up” or “battle”—they are a natural progression of aging (or genetics) which in my opinion is pretty damn fabulous. In fact, accounts like @grombre celebrate women of all ages, sizes, and skin complexions who have embraced their natural hues and never looked back. As a frequent color-lover, I had to keep it real with myself... was I really down to make my color commitment in the middle of A. a pandemic and B. this economy? The short answer was "no."

"Women have been embracing their grey hair more and more these days and opting for a more natural approach to hair color," explains celebrity hair colorist, Miranda Shaffer of Adel Atelier Salon. "Recently, I have noticed that current global events have forced some women to see their natural gray grow in for the first time ever. Not knowing if there would be another shutdown or just tired of feeling like a slave to their hair color have been contributing factors to a trend that had already started taking shape over the past few years," she adds.

Whether you opt to hit pause on coloring your hair for personal reasons (or financial ones), transitioning to your natural color might feel a bit intimidating, like where to start. The good news is there are a few options to embrace grays like a champ and products to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy. Today, we’ll jump into a few tips on how to go gray and start your next hair chapter with grace.

[…] Try Out a Few Treatments

According to Shaffer, "Gray hair is just hair that has lost all pigmentation but tends to grow in a wiry texture, and because of this, tends to be drier and more brittle to the touch.” That’s why most stylists recommend adding a conditioning treatment to your routine. "Milbon’s Repair Line is great as well as Olaplex for locking in the moisture gray hair so desperately craves," she adds.

In addition to your deep conditioner and mask, a weekly gloss can add much needed shine. "I love using an at-home gloss once a week. Rita Hazan’s Ultimate Shine Gloss in Breaking Brass ($26) is the best one," adds Ortega. "It keeps your hair shiny, brass-free, and hydrated all in one."