How to Dye and Streak Grey Hair

Dye your entire head gray or opt for sophisticated highlights.

It is not uncommon for young people in their 20s to notice gray hairs, although most graying occurs around age 50. If you have noticed some gray strands and would like to embrace the color, long known as a symbol of wisdom, experience and distinction, you can do so easily at home. More and more people are embracing their graying hair, as it is turning into a chic, modern look. Consider speeding up the process by dying your whole head gray or just bring out some sophistication by adding highlights.

Things You'll Need

• Latex gloves
• Hair dye kit
• Highlight kit
• Hair clips
• Old towels
• Cotton balls
• Comb

Instructions

Dye

1. Choose a color hair dye. Pick from a variety of colors in all shades. Some gray colors have a silvery tint and others are more white. Make sure the product does not contain alcohol or ammonium peroxide to avoid drying out your hair.

2. Purchase a hair dye kit that includes everything you will need, including dye, toner and gloves.

3. Put the gloves on to protect your hands and prevent staining from the dye. Wear an old shirt that you do not mind staining and have a couple old, worn towels nearby for cleanup.

4. Mix the hair dye. Follow the box's instructions carefully, especially if you have used a different brand in previous dyeing sessions. Every manufacturer's directions are different so read them closely.

5. Wet your hair completely in the shower or under a sink. Towel dry. Your hair should be slightly damp, not dripping wet.

6. Apply the dye to your hair. If you have a friend or family member nearby, have them assist you. Cover your entire head as thoroughly as possible. Keep the application even, using equal amounts of air dye on all parts of your head.

7. Clip your hair close to your head when finished. Use cotton balls to remove any excess dye from your face and neck.

8. Let the dye soak. Follow the box's instructions regarding the length of time. Do not leave the dye on your hair for longer than the instructions say because your hair might become damaged or the dye might turn an odd color.

9. Rinse the dye out. Use the kitchen sink or step into a shower to make sure your hair is thoroughly rinsed. Continue to rinse until no more dye is running out and the water is clear.

10. Apply the conditioning toner that came with the dye. Dyeing your hair strips moisture so its important to replenish and rehydrate your hair. Leave the toner in your hair for the specified amount of time and rinse if necessary.

Highlight

1. Purchase a highlight kit from your local drugstore or visit a salon. Highlights work well if you notice a couple strands of gray but you don't have the salt-and-pepper look just yet. A stylist can dye your dull, gray hair into bright, healthy strands of silver.

2. Put on latex gloves and mix the highlight dye. Follow the directions exactly. Make sure you are wearing an old shirt in case you accidentally drip dye onto it.

3. Apply the highlights as per the instructions on the box. Most highlight kits come with a cap with tiny holes. Use a comb to pull little pieces of hair through the holes and apply the dye on top of the cap.

4. Let the dye sit on your hair for as long as the instructions state. Wash your hair under a faucet or step into the shower to get a full rinse. Let the water run through your hair until it comes off clear.

5. Apply any toner or conditioner that came with the highlight kit. Let the conditioner sit on your hair and rinse if necessary. Towel dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Use petroleum jelly on your ears, forehead and neck to prevent accidental staining.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Five Things About Going Gray