Hair concern · 10 steps · 2 min read · Updated 29 October 2026

How to care for grey hair?

Grey hair has lost its melanin, and the follicle often produces less sebum at the same time, which is why greys can feel drier and coarser. Without pigment, the hair also shows yellowing from sun, pollution, heat and hard water. The routine below keeps grey hair bright, soft and healthy:

01
Use a Silver or Purple Shampoo
Violet pigment neutralises yellow tones. Use it once or twice a week in place of your normal shampoo, and leave it for a couple of minutes before rinsing. Alternate with a moisturising shampoo so the hair does not dry out.
02
Add Moisture Every Wash
Grey hair needs conditioner every time and a deep mask weekly. Look for glycerin, shea butter, argan oil or hyaluronic acid in the ingredients.
03
Clarify Once a Month
Minerals from hard water, pollution and product build-up dull grey hair. A clarifying shampoo monthly restores brightness; follow it with a mask.
04
Protect from Heat
Grey hair scorches yellow at high temperatures. Keep tools under 170 °C, always use a protectant and prefer a cool-shot finish on the dryer.
05
Shield from the Sun
UV light yellows grey hair the same way it fades colour. Use a UV-protective leave-in and wear a hat in strong sun.
06
Smooth the Texture
Greys often grow in wirier. A light smoothing cream or a few drops of oil on dry hair tames flyaways; a keratin-smoothing treatment is an option for very coarse hair.
07
Boost Shine with a Gloss
A clear or silver demi-permanent gloss every four to six weeks adds shine and evens out tone without committing to colour.
08
Look After the Scalp
Lower oil production can leave the scalp dry and flaky. A gentle scalp serum or a weekly oil massage keeps it comfortable and supports healthy growth.
09
Choose a Cut that Suits the Texture
Grey hair looks its best with a defined shape. Blunt bobs, soft layers and a sharp fringe all show off silver well; frequent trims keep the ends from looking frazzled.
10
Grow Out Colour Gradually
If you are transitioning from dyed hair, ask for highlights or lowlights that blend the line of regrowth, a gloss to match the tones, and shorter cuts to speed the process along.

Before you go

Grey hair is not damaged hair; it is simply different hair, and most people find it easier to manage once they stop treating it like their old colour. If greys are coming through very early or unevenly, or alongside other changes, a GP can check for underlying causes such as thyroid or vitamin B12 issues.

Frequently asked questions

Why does grey hair turn yellow?

Without melanin there is nothing to mask the slight yellow cast caused by sun, heat, pollution, hard water and certain products. Silver shampoos and glosses counteract it; clarifying removes the build-up that causes it.

Is grey hair coarser than coloured hair?

Often, yes. The follicle produces less oil and the cuticle can be rougher, so the strands feel wiry. Regular moisture and a smoothing cream make a big difference.

How do I transition to grey without a harsh line?

Blended highlights and lowlights, a gloss that bridges the two tones and progressively shorter cuts make the grow-out almost invisible. A colourist can plan the stages for you.