COVER Soft and shiny grey hair
If missing out on salon appointments has led you to reconsider whether you really need to dye your hair, Beauty Editor Michelle Nightingale explains how to make a gradual transition and embrace your natural colour
Rachel Peru (pictured below and right) oozes confidence, with a dazzling smile that gives the impression she’s been modelling her whole life. But Rachel (50) became a ‘silver’ model at the age of 46 – just two years after deciding to ditch the hair dye.
“After years of colouring my hair it was feeling like a chore and I woke up one morning and decided I didn’t want to do it anymore,” she explains. “At the time I had very short hair, so growing out my grey from a pixie cut was a fairly easy process. Even so, I found the support of my hairdresser invaluable as they guided me through that transitional stage.”
For some of us the notion of ‘going grey’ will bring up all kinds of negative emotions, but Rachel insists we should instead see it as a fresh start. “I stopped dying my hair six years ago and have found the whole experience liberating.”
Maintenance
Going grey may mean you need to tweak your haircare routine to help you manage your changing hair type. “Grey hair can look and feel frizzier, thinner, dry and coarse as the follicles produce less sebum,” explains Hannah. “Try using a nourishing hair mask weekly to keep it feeling soft and manageable. A purple shampoo a couple of times a week can ‘lift’ your grey and will eliminate brassy yellow tones.” Don’t forget your diet is important too. “A balanced diet, high in protein and omega oils will support your hair’s keratin and overall health, keeping it looking and feeling healthy. You could also look for a hair supplement containing essential vitamins, nutrients, collagen and copper to support your hair while it goes through the change.”
Stockists: Herbal Essences available from Superdrug superdrug.com; Lee Stafford available from Boots 0345 070 8090 boots. com; Nature’s Plus available from Revital 0800 252 875 revital.co.uk; Pantene available from Superdrug