How to Choose the Best Hair Color for Gray Hair

Hi, I’m Jasen James, a professional hair colorist and your HairColorHelper. I’m here to answer your questions about coloring your hair at home.

Does the amount of gray in your hair make a difference when you choose a hair color? Yes it does! The more gray you are, the less pigment there is in your hair to grab onto. Look at your roots in daylight with a good mirror. Take your time. Are you 25 percent grey? 50 percent? 75 percent gray? Completely gray at 100 percent?

So What’s the best hair color for gray hair?

If you’re 25 percent or less gray you can use a semi permanent formula. Look for words that say, “No ammonia” or “Blends grays.” Once you’re 50 percent gray, select a formula that covers well. You should switch to a permanent color. You’ll want a cream formula if your grays are resistant to color. Check the box for words like “100 percent gray coverage.”

You might want to go one level lighter to minimize the contrast between your lighter roots and your darker colored hair. It’s important to note that ash or cool tones don’t cover grey as well as neutral or warm ones. So you’ll want to avoid those as you become more gray.

At around 75 percent gray you should switch back to a semi permanent formula, which will give you a beautiful shimmer. Your grays will act as highlights. They won’t be completely covered, but blended. This effect is really pretty and avoids the opaque ‘wall of color’ that can look unnatural at this stage.

If you’re 100 percent gray or nearly there, and want to be blonde, choose beige colors but avoid really golden, warm shades. Even if you don’t want to be a blonde, consider that the lighter color you choose, the less contrast you’ll have as your hair grows out.

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