Lifestyle
Effortlessly Embrace Your Gray: Hairstylists Reveal the Ultimate Blending Technique
As the trend of embracing natural gray hair continues to gain momentum, many are inspired by celebrities like Kathy Bates and Meryl Streep, who have confidently showcased their silver locks on the red carpet. However, transitioning to gray hair isn’t always a straightforward process. The journey involves an adjustment period, as the hair doesn’t transform into a uniform gray overnight.
Celebrity hairstylist Christopher Naselli, owner of Naselli & Co. salon, acknowledges the challenges of going gray. “Going gray isn’t always easy for people—gray hair will change skin complexion and change your personal style,” he explains. To ease this transition, Naselli suggests incorporating lowlights, a technique that blends gray hair without completely covering it.
“Lowlights are a great way to ease into the process,” Naselli advises. This technique involves darkening strands of hair with a color similar to or darker than your natural shade, creating dimension and a seamless blend with your grays. Unlike highlights, which lighten hair, lowlights add depth and can give the appearance of thicker hair.
Finding the right lowlight shade is crucial. “When looking for the right tone, just match your natural level to the lowlight,” Naselli suggests. It’s important to avoid creating too much contrast, aiming instead for a softer, natural blend. Skin tone also plays a role in determining whether warmer or cooler lowlights are more suitable.
Lowlights are particularly effective for those with blonde to medium brown hair. For individuals with very dark hair, blending gray may require a different approach, such as a single process dye treatment. Consulting with a stylist can help determine the best strategy based on the amount of gray present.
Guy Tang, a celebrity hairstylist and founder of #Mydentity, emphasizes the subtlety of lowlights. “Don’t go too dark,” he advises, recommending demi-permanent or semi-permanent dyes for a natural look. This approach allows for a gradual transition to gray or a way to maintain some of your original hair color.
For those considering lowlights, Naselli recommends discussing your goals with your stylist. “Be clear on your style and color goals; you might not be ready for the full commitment of letting your hair naturally grow out and committing to a full head of gray hair,” he says. Lowlights offer a low-maintenance option that grows out naturally and can be easier to manage than highlights.
To maintain lowlights, using products designed for color-treated hair is essential. “The best way to maintain lowlights is by using the right products that ensure hydration and smooth, shiny hair,” Tang advises. A moisturizing and strengthening formula can help reduce breakage, while a gentle purple shampoo can combat any unwanted yellow or brassy tones.
Alternatively, some may choose to let their gray hair grow out naturally. Tina Deeke, a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, suggests a gradual transition by extending the time between color appointments. “I usually try to have clients wait longer than usual for their color so I have more of the natural growth exposed,” she notes. Switching from permanent to demi-permanent color can also create a blending effect, making gray hair appear highlighted.
Ultimately, transitioning to gray hair is a personal journey, and lowlights offer a versatile and subtle way to embrace your natural color while maintaining a polished appearance.
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