Hair & makeup tricks for gorgeous grey locks

HAIR

WHILE not everyone who gets it naturally welcomes it, grey hair has been considered a sign of wisdom and a life well lived. In more recent times, the younger generation has taken on the grey hair trend – proving it’s gorgeous and that anyone can rock it.

Grey hair starts showing up anywhere between the ages of 34 and 44. As you get older your hair falls out, and when it grows out again it’s grey because your body has stopped producing melanin. If you produce grey hair in your early 20s, it’s genetic.

HOW TO TAKE CARE OF IT

Grey hair tends to feel a bit dry compared to hair with pigment, and this is because the sebaceous glands attached to the root of the hair don’t produce enough sebum anymore. The cuticle is thinner too, meaning the hair is vulnerable to the weather, chemicals and heat styling. If the cuticle is compromised, hair loses moisture too, and so it tends to be prone to dryness. The hair may also feel more fine, so extra nourishment is essential.

SWAP YOUR OLD PRODUCTS FOR THE FOLLOWING

■ Intensely moisturising shampoo and conditioner Grey hair tends to show dirt quickly so these will ensure your hair stays hydrated, and washing with them often won’t deplete moisture.

■ Silicone serum This smooths the hair and keeps moisture locked in.

■ Nourishing scalp mask This keeps the hair hydrated and soft.

■ Less heat This will prevent dryness.

■ Argan oil and hot oil treatments Hot oil treatments repair dry and damaged hair and will deeply nourish the hair. Argan oil on its own has multiple benefits, including being rich in anti-oxidants – which means it protects hair from environmental stress as well as styling tools that use heat. It also super-hydrating.

HOW TO STYLE IT

■ Soft curls usually work well for grey hair. You can use jumbo rollers or blow wave your hair.

■ A sleek or whimsical updo is always a winner. Adorn your hair with white or silver accessories to complement your grey strands.

■ Straight and sleek locks work with any type of hair. Consider getting a keratin treatment for manageable hair with minimal frizz that’s also easy to style because it’s straighter.

■ A pixie cut is simple, chic, and clean. It’s a fresh way to show off your silver mane.