health
How to Get Hair Dye to Better Adhere to Gray Hair: A Hairdresser Reveals the Secret That Solves the Problem
Here's how to cover even the most stubborn gray strands.
TL;DR
- Gray hair's smooth, closed structure makes it difficult for dye pigment to penetrate.
- Pre-pigmentation involves applying 3% or 6% hydrogen peroxide to dry gray strands for 10 minutes before dyeing to open the cuticle.
- After pre-pigmentation, hair should be blow-dried without rinsing before applying dye.
- A 6% hydrogen peroxide (20 vol) is typically used for gray hair as it opens the cuticle without excessive lightening.
- Start dyeing the most gray-prone areas (around the face, crown) where the color needs to stay the longest.
- Extend the dye's processing time by 5-10 minutes beyond the instructions (total around 45 minutes) unless otherwise specified.
- Gentle warming of the hair with a hairdryer while under a shower cap can help the cuticle open faster.
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and masks for colored hair to prevent premature fading.