Let’s start with the basic truth: Grey hair is a completely natural process that occurs when the hair follicle reduces or stops producing melanin. While greying hair is influenced by a number of factors and can be noticed at any age, it is most commonly associated with aging (and frequently receives a bad rap because of this).
So just in case no one else has told you, we want to make sure we do: You do NOT have to color your grey hair. Please know you look beautiful no matter what, and you are the boss of you (and what feels right for you!).
That being said, looking in the mirror to find a grey hair or two (or many) can be quite a surprise, and if you are interested in coloring them, that is also totally okay (read again: YOU are the boss of you)! Lauren is telling us more about our options.
Q: What’s the difference between grey coverage and grey blending?
A: Grey coverage is intended to cover up 100% of greys, while grey blending is meant to either provide partial coverage or soften the contrast between the greys coming in and the hair color you’re used to having.
Q: Is there only one service option for covering greys?
A: No, there are different options based on what your desired result is. A few options specifically for grey hair are:
Grey Coverage: A Grey Coverage service involves one color being applied to all of your hair from roots to ends. This option is great if you’re looking to cover most, if not all of your grey hairs.
Root Touch-up (Color): Often a maintenance service for the above.
Grey Blending: The Grey Blending service is done using foils (usually close to the root) placed around the hairline, centerline, crown, and nape. This creates delicate, finely woven highlights (or lowlights) that result in a super soft, low-maintenance blending of your greys, reducing the contrast between them and the rest of your hair.
Gloss: A gloss, also called a toner, lightly tints the greys to create softness or make them appear darker temporarily. This is also great for folks who don’t necessarily want to change the color of their greys, but are bothered by the textural difference grey hairs can sometimes have from the rest of our hair.
Q: How do I know which is the best option for me?
A: The best option for you is going to be based on how much grey you want to see, as well as what maintenance schedule is going to fit in with your lifestyle and budget. Talking to your stylist about your hair goals and needs is a great place to start.
Q: What if I have previously colored my hair?
A: If your hair has been previously colored, dyed, or chemically treated—including at-home box color or color at another salon—contact the salon to book a free 15-minute consultation. This can sometimes require a Color Correction to achieve your desired look, which is a separate service and may require multiple appointments.
Q: What if I am ready to embrace the grey? What does the transition look like?
A: It all depends on your starting point. There are many options to make the grow-out as seamless as possible while maintaining the integrity of your hair.
Regardless of where you’re at on your grey journey, there’s a service that can help you feel comfortable and beautiful along the way. We just so happen to know a great stylist you can chat with about it…
Book with Lauren in our Multnomah Village (SW Portland), Sellwood (SE Portland), or Slabtown (NW Portland) hair salon location through the link below or by calling/texting 971.267.4080.