How to Make White Hair for an Old Lady Costume

White-colored hairspray can be used to give the illusion of old age.

White wigs and angel hair caps have been used to create white hair for old lady costumes. However, colored hair sprays provide a convenient method for temporarily coloring hair for parties and Halloween events. Colored hairsprays can be applied directly to the hair or used to color wigs. The hairspray is simply removed with shampoo. Different shades from pure white to silver-white, with or without glitter, are available at local costume shops or beauty supply stores.

Things You'll Need

• White colored hairspray
• 6 hair clips

Instructions

1. Wash and dry hair to remove dirt and styling aids.

2. Divide hair into six sections including the top of the head, the crown, the temples, and two sections for the nape. Secure all sections with hair clips, leaving one of the sections at the nape loose.

3. Spray the first section of hair starting at the nape. Hold the can 8 to 10 inches from the hair, using light bursts of hairspray while moving the can back and forth in a slow sweeping motion. Continue spraying one section at a time.

4. Gather hair together at the nape of the neck and gently twist into a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins. For shorter hair, use a hair pick to style hair.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask a friend to help spray the hair on the back of the head and hard-to-see areas.

• Drape a towel or plastic cape across the shoulders to protect clothing or costume from hairspray color.

• Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid breathing hairspray fumes.

• Avoid contact with the eyes.

• Do not use near an open flame.

Resources

• Be Wild: Temporary Color Spray Siberian White
• Vamp Fangs: Graftobian White Color Hairspray
• Alcone Company: Kryolan Color Spray