Like a fine bottle of Pinot Grigio, some things just better with age – fellas, this includes you. First up, going grey is nothing to fear, it’s just a way of life. There’s science behind it. Our hair is naturally coloured by melanin pigment, and as we age, the production of this pigment slows down. That means going grey will happen to all of us (unless balding strikes first), but your genetics will decide when. Whether you’re keen to cover it, or ready to style it out, here’s what we’d suggest.
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1 Highlights (to blend your greys)
If your hair is less than 25% grey, we’d recommend trying highlights over a full dye job. Don’t consider tackling it alone, head to the salon where a professional colourist will know exactly where to deposit colour (highlights or lowlights), for a natural-looking shift. Adding colour throughout the hair will camouflage greys with ease, and require fewer touch-ups. Fear not, gents, there’ll be no 90s frosted tips round these parts, just a seamless blend between your new-arrival greys and your professional colour.
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2 Full coverage (to hide them completely)
If you’re after more pepper than salt, an all-over colour will hide your greys in full. If it’s your first time under the foils, try a semi-permanent colour; it’ll lightly coat your greys, but is a little kinder on hair. This one lasts for up to 12 washes. Permanent colour is longer-lasting, containing ammonia that enters the hair cuticle to deposit pigment. You’ll need to mask root regrowth as your greys creep back, but there are a few products out there to try at-home. Check in for a consultation before your salon trip, to find a style that suits.
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3 Embrace the grey
If you’re leaving your locks as nature intended, make sure to give them some TLC. Grey hairs can be coarse in texture thanks to the reduction of natural oils in the scalp (ah, growing up). Try an argan-oil enriched conditioner for maintaining moisture. Argan oil is rich in Vitamin E and omega-6 acid, so will work to bring moisture back to your locks, and combat dried-out strands. As for the cut, George Lamb is the poster child of long grey hair done right, while George Clooney is, well George Clooney. Make sure to head for regular trims to keep your greys in good nick, and on the shinier side of silver fox.
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