Why Hair Dye Won't Take On Grey Hair

Why Hair Dye Won’t Take On Grey Hair | 7 Useful Hair Dyeing Tips For Grays!

In this article you can discover secrets behind why hair dye won’t take on grey hair and achieve the look you desire with confidence.

Many have found that the hair dye won’t take on grey hair. This can be frustrating and confusing, leaving people wondering what they are doing wrong. 

The truth is that grey hair is typically resistant to hair dye because it lacks the pigment that gives hair its color. Instead, grey hair is made up of translucent strands that allow light to pass through, making it appear grey or even white. 

This means that when hair dye is applied, the color molecules are unable to penetrate the hair shaft and attach themselves to the hair’s pigments, resulting in a lack of color uptake. 

While there are some hair dyes available that claim to work on grey hair, they are often harsh and damaging to the hair, and may still not produce the desired result. 

Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?

The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.

Why Hair Dye Won’t Take On Grey Hair

Grey hair is different from regular hair. The texture of grey hair is different, and it can be coarse and dry. The hair follicles become less effective at holding onto moisture as we age, and this leads to dryness in our hair. Additionally, grey hair has lost its natural pigment, so hair dyes have nothing to stick to. Without the presence of pigment, hair dyes cannot impart the desired hair color. 

Why Hair Dye Won't Take On Grey Hair

How To Colour Resistant Grey Hair

As we age, our hair is no stranger to the natural process of greying. While some choose to embrace the grey, many still feel the need to cover it up with hair dye. However, colouring resistant grey hair can be a frustrating and difficult process. 

See also  Micellar Water For Hair | 6 Top Benefits, How To Use, And Side Effects On Hair

Firstly, it is important to choose the right hair dye that is specifically formulated for grey hair. Products containing ammonia and peroxide can damage hair and dry it out, making it more difficult for the dye to penetrate. Some herbal formulations like amla powder, henna, coffee, etc. can also be used to dye graying hair. (Singh, Vijender et al. “Study of colouring effect of herbal hair formulations on graying hair.” Pharmacognosy research vol. 7,3 (2015): 259-62. doi:10.4103/0974-8490.157976)

Opt for gentle, ammonia-free dyes that are designed for resistant grey hair. Prepping your hair before colouring is crucial. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up and residue that could prevent the dye from taking hold. 

Apply a moisturizing conditioner or hair mask beforehand to nourish your hair and ensure an even dye distribution. When applying the dye, section your hair and work from the roots to the ends. 

Leave the dye on for the recommended time, based on your hair type and the strength of the formula. Lastly, embrace the fact that resistant grey hair may not always achieve the desired shade in one go. 

Be patient and avoid over-processing your hair, as this can further damage it. Regular touch-ups with gentler dyes will keep your hair looking vibrant and youthful.

Related: What Is The Best Natural Hair Dye For Grey Hair

How often should I dye my hair to cover gray?

The frequency of dyeing your hair to cover gray can vary depending on individual factors such as hair growth rate, desired color, and personal preference. However, as a general guideline, most experts recommend touching up gray roots every 4-6 weeks. This timeframe helps maintain consistent coverage and minimizes the appearance of regrowth. It’s essential to consider the health of your hair and scalp when dyeing frequently, as excessive dyeing can lead to damage. Consulting with a professional stylist can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific hair type and color goals.

why won't dye take on grey hair

What Colour Is Best To Cover Grey Hair?

When it comes to covering grey hair with dye, it’s important to choose the right colour. While some people opt for a shade that matches their natural hair colour, this may not be the best option for everyone. 

See also  Apple Cider Vinegar For Hair Loss: 4 Amazing Benefits of ACV, Recipes and How To Use It

In fact, choosing a slightly lighter shade can often be more flattering, as it can help to soften the appearance of wrinkles and bring out the natural highlights in the hair. On the other hand, dye going too dark can make the skin appear sallow and emphasize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. When choo

Using a hair dye to cover grey hair, it’s important to take into account not only your natural hair colour and skin tone, but also your personal style and the look you want to achieve. 

Whether you opt for a bold and vibrant shade or a more subtle and natural-looking colour, remember that the choice is ultimately yours. Choose a colour that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and you’ll be sure to shine!

The struggle to dye grey hair is a common one, and it’s not without reason. As we age, our hair loses its vitality, and the melanin production slows down. Without melanin, the hair loses its natural pigment, and the grey hair emerges. 

Unfortunately, this also means that the hair shaft becomes coarser and more resistant to dye, making it difficult to achieve a uniform color. Additionally, grey hair tends to have less oil, which is essential in maintaining hydration and softness, further exacerbating the problem. 

While some hair coloring products advertise the ability to cover grey hairs, the truth is that not all products are created equal, and some may even cause further damage to already fragile hair. 

Also Read:

How Do I Dye My Hair Brown With Coffee

See also  DIY Banana Hair Mask Recipes for Frizzy Hair | 7 Easy Recipes For Softer, Smoother Hair

Can I Use Lush Henna On Grey Hair

Scroll to Top