How to Cover Gray Hair

We all want healthy, silky, and smooth hair. However, as we age, gray hairs may start appearing due to various conditions, which can affect our confidence. While we cannot prevent gray hairs from appearing as we age, we can hide them using certain tips and tricks. Before sharing the suggestions, let’s discuss why our hair turns gray.

Reasons for Premature Graying of Hair

There are various reasons why some people have gray hair at a younger age, while others have it as they age. The first reason is genetics. Our genes play a significant role in our hair growth, hair fall, and premature graying. Over time, the pigment present in the hair follicles wears out. When the pigment cells die, the hair strands no longer contain as much melanin as they need, resulting in transparent hair colors like silver, white, or gray.

The second reason is chemical treatments on the hair. Regular chemical treatments may make the hair look smooth and healthy on the outside, but they can damage and cause graying. Instead of chemical treatments, opt for natural remedies. A deficiency in vitamin B-12 and an unhealthy diet or lifestyle are common causes of hair graying. A proper diet is necessary to avoid any health hazards. Health problems can also lead to greying hair.

Tips and Tricks to Cover Your Grey Hair

Oiling

Proper oiling should always be done before washing the hair. Use coconut oil or almond oil, as they will nourish the hair and slow the process of graying. It’s quite an age-old method to keep the quality of hair intact. The best part of oiling is that it does not have any side effects, unlike serums and other chemical-added artificial substances that lead to the deterioration of hair quality in the long run.

Henna and Coffee Powder

Henna is a natural ingredient that gives a naturally darker color to the hair. In a bowl, mix 2-3 tablespoons of henna powder and two tablespoons of coffee powder (increase the quantity according to the length of the hair). Subsequently, add some mildly hot water to create a thick concoction. Apply the mixture to the hair, avoiding the scalp, and let it dry. After a while, the paste will dry out. You can then rinse it off. This pack will provide a natural color to the hair without damaging it.

Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Hair Pack

Indian gooseberry, or amla, is very effective for hair. A simple hair pack can help make the hair strong and increase the melanin in the hair strands. In a bowl, mix two tablespoons of amla powder and add coconut oil. Mix well and make a smooth paste. Apply the paste to the hair and let it sit for an hour, then wash the hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Consuming an amla every day can also promote healthy hair.

Avoid Colouring Hair from the Scalp

We all want to color our hair at some point in our lives. However, using chemical colors can damage the hair, and bleaching the hair can cause it to gray faster. Instead of coloring the entire head, consider only coloring the roots, which will provide a perfect highlight without damaging or graying the hair too much.

Proper Diet

Without a proper diet, your hair will turn gray before the anticipated period. Add foods to your diet that contain more vitamins, such as B-12, iodine, iron, amino acids, and protein. Avoid alcohol and smoking to keep the circulatory system healthy. Alcohol and fat-rich foods impact the liver which is crucial in breaking down fats.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is key for healthy hair. Consuming an adequate amount of water will help you flush toxins out of your body and will keep your hair and body healthy. A clean and healthy circulatory system ensures that every organ is getting an adequate amount of oxygenated blood and nutrients with it

Vegetal Hair Colour

As the name suggests, these treatments use vegetable extracts. While they provide temporary color, it is the safest method of dyeing your hair without damaging it. Vegetal hair color will hide your gray hair, treat dandruff, and nourish your hair.

Chemical-Free Shampoo and Conditioner

Chemicals can be harmful to your hair, especially sulfate and paraben. Use shampoos and conditioners with natural ingredients instead of chemicals. False advertisement claims lead to mass usage of shampoos in our daily lives which are adulterated with ingredients that may harm our hair quality.

Walnut Shells

Walnut shells can be used as a natural dye to cover gray hairs. Grind some walnuts and mix them with water to form a smooth paste. Apply the paste to your hair and let it dry, then wash it off with a sulfate-free shampoo. It’s one of the best home remedies that you can use as an alternative for shampoos once in a while.

Mental Health

Avoid ignoring your mental health because it has a significant impact on your physical health and appearance. It may seem difficult to reduce stress, but try to balance a healthy work life and lifestyle to avoid excess stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 What food should I eat to avoid gray hair?
Ans. You cannot entirely avoid gray hair, but you can slow the process by eating more protein-rich foods and drinking an adequate amount of water.

Q2. What is the longevity of henna?
Ans. Henna is a naturally occurring substance that can be used to nourish and darken hair. The color lasts for 2-4 weeks and gradually starts to fade over time.