Growing out your gray hair is a bold statement of self-acceptance and confidence. Whether you’re going all-in or taking a gradual approach, this transition is deeply personal. But one thing’s for sure: keeping your hair strong, healthy, and hydrated matters just as much as the day you found your first gray strand.
At Verbena, The Salon, we’re here to guide you through every step of your gray hair transition, with expert techniques, high-performance products, and a whole lot of encouragement.
What Happens When Hair Turns Gray?
Gray hair happens naturally as melanin production slows down, causing strands to lose their pigment over time. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hair grows about half an inch per month, meaning the transition from dyed to natural silver can take anywhere from a year to several years. Don’t worry, we’ve got strategies to help you ease into the change.
💡 Good to know: Gray hair often comes with a new texture, too! As melanin fades, hair can feel coarser, drier, or more wiry. Routine hydration and strengthening treatments can help keep your strands soft and manageable.
How to Transition to Gray Hair (Own It!)
Going gray doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision—you have options! Here are the three best ways to transition to gray hair:
1️⃣ Soft Blending with Highlights & Lowlights
🌿 Best for: A natural, low-maintenance transition.
🌿 Why it works: Adding cool-toned highlights or lowlights helps break up the contrast between natural grays and previously colored hair.
2️⃣ Gradual Color Reduction
🌿 Best for: Those who want to ease into their grays.
🌿 How it works: By spacing out color appointments or switching to semi-permanent dyes, you can let your gray grow in more naturally over time.
3️⃣ The Bold “Cold Turkey” Approach
🌿 Best for: Anyone ready to fully embrace their silver strands.
🌿 What to expect: Growing out gray hair naturally requires patience, but with regular trims and deep conditioning treatments, you can keep your hair strong, shiny, and stunning throughout the process.
💬 Need expert advice? Our stylists can help create a customized transition plan that works for your lifestyle.
Keeping Your Gray Hair Healthy and Vibrant
Whether you’re just starting your gray journey or embracing silver for years, nourishment is key. Gray hair is typically drier and more delicate, so the right routine makes all the difference:
💧 Deep Hydration – Use moisture-rich shampoos and conditioners to keep hair soft and manageable (we love Davines NOUNOU & OI ranges, and so do our clients!)
🌀 Neutralize Brassiness – A blue or purple shampoo prevents yellow undertones and keeps your silver bright & cool-toned.
💇♀️ Regular Trims – Fresh cuts keep split ends & frizz under control while shaping your grow-out.
🍎 Nourish from Within – A diet rich in biotin, omega-3s, and antioxidants supports stronger, shinier hair from the inside out.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Go Gray?
The gray grow-out timeline depends on your hair length, natural growth rate, and method of transition. On average:
⏳ Short hair: 6-12 months
⏳ Shoulder-length hair: 12-18 months
⏳ Long hair: 18-24 months
💡 Pro tip: A big chop can speed up the process—plus, shorter styles show off beautiful gray dimensions!
Own Being a Silver Fox or Vixen
Gray hair isn’t something to hide, it’s something to celebrate! Whether you blend it in, grow it out, or rock a bold silver pixie, this journey is yours to embrace.
At Verbena, The Salon, we’re here to help you transition gracefully and confidently with expert techniques and top-tier haircare. Ready to start your silver journey? Let’s make it one to remember. Book a consultation with our gray hair transition specialist today!
