When you talk about aging, a few things always come on top of the list – menopause, wrinkles, and gray hair. Some even have an earlier onset due to genetics or a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Regardless of age, gray hair will have everyone scouring the drugstore shelves for DIY box dyes. But how do you choose the best hair color to hide your gray hair and still look fabulous?
Here are 5 helpful tips from Garnier:
1. Choose the appropriate formula
First off, you need to evaluate the percentage of gray areas you need to cover. This will help you choose whether to buy a permanent or a semi-permanent hair dye.
If you have between 10-15% of gray hair, a semi-permanent dye will do the job. If you have between 60-100% gray hair, your best option is a permanent hair color. Choose a formula that guarantees 100% coverage and long-lasting color. The results will last you 6 to 8 weeks before you may need to do minor retouches.
2. Find alternatives to dark color
Dark colors have a tendency to harden facial features, which only intensifies as we age. Also, it is easier to correct light hair color than darker shades. If you only have minimal gray hairs, opt for natural browns such as light chestnut, or medium brown. If your head of hair is more gray than black, try out blonder shades and see if they are easier to maintain in the long run.
3. Opt for natural hair color
When opting for a shade close to your natural hair color, you will only need to do retouches every 6 to 8 weeks, instead of every 4 weeks when coloring your hair too dark or too light compared to your natural hair roots.
4. Identify flattering shades for your skintone
To do this, determine your skin’s undertone whether it’s cool or warm. If you have a warm complexion, choose warmer hair colors such as caramel browns or golden blondes. If you have a cool complexion, go for a dark brown or an icy blond.
5. Pick the best shade to match your eyes
If you’re looking to achieve the most natural look possible, match your hair color with your eyes. Dark or brown eyes suit hair colors in the same palette such as chocolate browns, chestnut, or even red. Avoid shades leaning towards orange. Blue or green eyes will blend well with blonde or red hair colors. However, steer clear from colors that are too cool especially if you have a very fair skintone.
How about you? What is your best shade?
