How to Get Gray Blonde Hair

Even if you’re not paying super close attention you probably noticed that a new hair color trend seems to pop up every day, and today gray blonde hair is having a moment in the spotlight. Gray hair was already ultra-popular, but gray-tinged blonde hair takes both hair colors to a whole new level. The best part: It’s easy to do and easy to care for — that is, if you have the right products. Here’s everything you need to know about dyeing your hair gray blonde and caring for it after the coloring process is over. 

How to Get a Gray Blonde Hair Color

Similar in hue to silver blonde, this hair color idea will look supremely flattering on all skin tones, just be sure to customize it to suit your undertones. Like makeup, hair color is all about what makes you feel good so have fun and play with it and choose your shade based on your preference.

Since this is a super-trendy shade you may want to consider visiting a professional salon and seeking out the help of a colorist. It’s a good idea to bring in photos showing examples of what you want your hair color to look like.

Of course, if you’re not already blonde, you’ll need to have your hair bleached to lighten your color. If you’re starting with a dark base, it could take multiple sessions at the salon to get your desired gray blonde shade. When it comes to trendy hair colors, oftentimes, patience is key! 

If you’re already starting to go gray the process may be easier. Just ask your stylist to blend your gray hair with highlights and lowlights to create a multidimensional look that doesn’t require coloring your entire head.

Editor’s tip: If you want to get a good idea of how you’ll like a silvery gray-blonde hair color, start with a light base and spray some of the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray in Silver onto your strands. It will wash out in a single shampoo, and it can help you determine if you’re ready for the look permanently.

How to Take Care Of Gray Blonde Hair

Once you’ve colored your hair, you’ll want to change up your hair care routine to help keep your hair color and health in top shape. Follow the tips below and you’ll be golden.

1. Switch to a Hair Care System For Blonde, Color-Treated Hair

Gray blonde hair does require some special maintenance, including using a shampoo and conditioner for blonde, colored strands. Our pick? The L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Color Care Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Conditioner help to gently cleanse, condition, and strengthen bleached and colored hair. 

Together, the duo will help reinforce hair bonds that have been ravaged by heat styling, overprocessing, lightening and other damage. It also smooths and softens hair while protecting it from future damage. 

2. Play Defense Against Brass

When your blonde strands start looking brassy, a purple shampoo and conditioner will be your saviors. When you notice warm yellow and orange tones starting to make an appearance, swap your bond strengthening hair care system for the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris Sulfate-Free Brass Toning Purple Conditioner. The sulfate-free, paraben-free, vegan formulas are gentle on color while zapping away those nasty brassy hues. 

3. Turn Down the Heat

Sure, a piping hot shower might feel really good in the moment, but it’s not all that great for your hair (or skin really). In fact, super-high temps can actually strip your hair of essential oils, leaving it feeling dry and looking dull. So, the next time you bathe or have a wash day session, turn down the dial and rinse off in lukewarm water instead. It might not feel quite as relaxing, but your hair will benefit from it.

4. Go Heat-Free

Bleach can do a number on your mane — so putting aside the heat tools (which can cause damage when used excessively) and embracing your hair’s gorgeous natural texture from time to time can help preserve your hair health and color. There are many heatless hairstyles to choose from so you’ll never feel limited as long as you’re willing to put in a little work.

5. Don’t Forget Touch Ups

Like many things in beauty, aftercare continues long after the initial process is done. That doesn’t have to be a bad thing, though. Look at it this way, making sure your new growth doesn’t give away your natural color could be an exercise in self-care. Turn those regularly scheduled salon touch ups into self-care moments when you can unplug and just enjoy letting someone else take care of you. You’ll come out with a fresh hair color and mental refresh — we consider that a win-win.

Next: 8 Earthy Hair Colors That Will Warm Up Your Spring ‘Do

Edited by: Shalwah Evans, Photo: Stock