Gray hair is just something that most of us have to deal with at some point in our lives. According to a 2018 paper in the International Journal of Trichology, 50 percent of the population will have about 50 percent gray hair by age 50. This is known as the 50-50-50 rule (for very obvious reasons).
Historically, the idea of going gray has always been unnerving for older men. But thanks to super cool people like Patrick Dempsey and Pierce Brosnan, we’re slowly starting to realize that it can (and does) look great.
Therefore, we know all the reasons why your hair turns gray. But if you’re ready to know how to care for it and what products to use, we asked London barber TJ Hunt of Time Shoreditch for some advice.
How do you take care of your gray hair?
#1: Rethink your style
You may notice that it’s not just the color that’s changing at the top. In some cases, gray hair can have a different texture than previous hair follicles due to a lack of pigment (also known as melanin).
“Your trademark style may not be well-suited to a new frosty thatch, and a fresh look that’s more attractive and practical may be more appropriate,” says Hunt. “But don’t panic. Oftentimes, a change of style can be invigorating and energizing. And you can’t see George Clooney trying to hide his silver locks, can you?”
#2: Choose the right shampoo
Well, now that you’ve fully accepted your new gray hair self, it’s time to invest in a solid shampoo. If you’ve ever bleached your hair, you know how dry and brittle your hair becomes when the color is stripped from your hair follicles. Well, it’s the same story when it comes to gray.
“That’s why it’s best to use shampoos whose primary purpose is to provide moisture and strength,” says Hunt. “Check out ones that contain hydration-boosting argan oil and red algae. You might also consider silver shampoos and purple shampoos, which are new arrivals in town a few years ago. They claimed they could bring out blondes and grays by removing dull undertones. Well, it turns out they actually work.”
#3: Get the best product
Now that you’ve chosen a shampoo that actually works for you, it’s time to give your styling products a little refresh. If the product is too thick or oily, it can make your gray hair look dull, dingy, or brassy (or all three).
“You need a good hair cream that you can use every day without feeling like you have a block of cement on your head,” says Hunt. “I also recommend ditching pomades and gels altogether in favor of something lighter and more natural yet hydrating. It may take a little trial and error, but some of my favorites are I have listed them below.
#4: Reduce the heat
Blow-drying your hair can give it just the right amount of volume and movement, which is difficult to achieve by air-drying alone. That’s why hair dryers are running nonstop in barbershops. However, constant heat styling can make your hair dry and brittle, which is a problem for most hair types, especially gray hair.
“Find a style that works without you having to reach for tools,” says Hunt. “Adding product while your hair is still a little damp may do the trick. But if you really can’t live without a hair dryer, be sure to apply a protective product first. This will help improve elasticity. It is essential to keep it.”
