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For hair that is less than 50 percent gray, temporary or semi-permanent hair color may be a satisfactory solution to covering the gray. Many formulas require a few simple steps and can be done at home. The best results are generally achieved by choosing a color close to your natural shade. These shades will either wash out or gradually fade from the hair, because they coat the hair shaft rather than penetrate it.
Natural dyes are another alternative for temporary hair color for people who are sensitive to commercial hair dyes or simply don't want to use them. These hair dyes are primarily derived from henna and have been used for centuries. Henna can also make the hair seem thicker with regular use.
For more radical changes or hair that is more gray than not, permanent hair color is probably required. While this can be done at home, the best results are achieved by consulting a professional, at least for the initial coloring. The results for permanent hair dyes are just that, permanent. The dye must be reapplied as the hair grows out to prevent obvious roots from revealing the true color of the hair. - Another way of concealing gray hair is by progressively blending in the gray with the natural color. With progressive dyes, you can eventually blend all the gray away or leave some gray. These formulas work by depositing a substance which causes the a chemical reaction in the hair that results in the disappearance of gray and a return to color closer to the user's natural shade. These coloring products usually contain lead acetate, an ingredient which has been banned in Canada and in the European Union as a possible carcinogen. They are also not recommended for people who use other chemical processes in their hair, such as perms, because of possible adverse reactions.
- If coloring gray hair does not appeal, it is possible to embrace the process of going gray. Gray hair also tends to drain the coloring from the face in people with light skin tones, but it is possible to compensate for that with makeup for women and brighter tones in clothing for both men and women. It's also important to emphasize the shine as much as possible and eliminate yellowing. Special shampoos and glazes for gray hair can help to deal with those issues.
