Going grey isn’t just a colour change – it can alter your hair’s texture, pattern, and care and styling needs.
Perhaps you’re ready to embrace your grey hair after years of dyeing it or need some tips for growing out your silver roots. From the best styles for grey hair, to handy hair care tips and nifty styling tricks, this guide has it all.
Read on to discover why grey hair is always in style, with:
· Fashionable grey hairstyles for all ages
· Haircare tips for grey hair
· Styling tips for greying hair
· Tips for growing out your grey hair gracefully
· Product recommendations for grey hair
· Grey hair FAQs
Grey hairstyles
Whether you're already rocking your grey hair or just considering the transition, we've collected a range of grey hairstyles for every length. From a sleek silver bob to stunning salt and pepper waves, here are some grey haircuts women of all ages love.
Low-maintenance short grey hairstyles
There’s a wider range of short grey hairstyles to choose from than you might think. Whether you prefer a sleek look or a playful, textured vibe, going short with your grey hair doesn’t mean compromising on style. With one of these short hairstyles, grey hair can be transformed into your style signature.
Grey pixie cut
Keep a little length on top with this textured wavy look. Add extra texture by blow drying some volume into the roots with the Airshot Pro. This is one of the most elegant short hairstyles for grey hair.
Grey pixie cut with long top layers
When browsing short styles for grey hair, you’ll notice something effortlessly cool about a grey pixie cut. This youthful cut shows off your silver hair's texture and shine, and it can be worn sleek and refined or tousled and carefree. Style with the Slim Iron.
Grey side-swept bob
Whether you're going for a polished straight look or tousled waves, the side-swept bob brings out the natural shimmer of grey hair. A side swept bob is ideal for any hair type that’s going grey, especially thinner hair with ends that would benefit from a chop.
Grey inverted bob
When it comes to low-maintenance short grey hairstyles, an inverted bob is the perfect way to show off the different silver-grey tones in your hair. This modern take on a classic bob gives thinner hair the illusion of volume.
Grey, short, inverted bob
If your greying hair is on the fine side, a short, inverted bob could be the look for you. By shaping the hair along your jawbone, this style gives definition to your facial features and the impression of a fuller head of hair.
Grey bob with soft layers
A classic bob with soft layers is a timeless choice for women of all ages with grey hair. This versatile haircut frames your face beautifully and adds movement, while the soft layers provide texture and dimension.
Trendy medium-length grey hairstyles
For an instantly modern and up-to-date look, consider cutting your grey hair shoulder length. Medium-length hairstyles can strike the perfect balance between low-maintenance ease and versatility. We’ve
rounded up our favourite simple and easy mid-length hairstyles to flatter your grey hair.
Grey face-framing lob
For the ultimate low-maintenance style, go for a face-framing lob. By just skimming your shoulders, it gives a cool profile but gives you the option of a half-up half-down style or updo. Keep it sleek and straight with the Original Iron.
Curly shoulder-grazing haircut on grey hair
Whether your curls are natural or created by a heated styling tool like our Curling Wand, they’ll add texture to this look as well as showing off the different tones in your grey hair.
Mid-length grey haircut with blunt ends
For a sleek and sophisticated look, ask your hairdresser for a blunt mid-length cut. This is especially good for showing off your hair if it’s mostly one colour – it’s like a sumptuous, flowing curtain.
Shoulder-length grey lob
The shoulder-length lob, or long bob, is another gorgeous option for women going grey. It’s flattering on all face shapes and hair textures, and can be worn straight, wavy or curly. Ask your stylist to add a few highlights or go for a blended look and wear your grey roots proudly.
Grey lob with long fringe
This shoulder-grazing style works with all outfits and occasions and is sure to showcase your silver hair. The long fringe adds an extra touch of ageless elegance. Touch it up with the Slim Iron.
Mid-length grey waves
If you’ve been caring for your greys properly for years and have gorgeous silver hair, why not show it off? To style your mid-length grey waves, we recommend the Cloud Nine Contouring Original Iron.
Haircuts for long grey hair
Just because your hair has gone grey, doesn’t mean you have to cut it short. Long hair can take on a brand-new dimension with the addition of natural silver strands. If you’ve put hard work in to caring for and growing out your long greying hair, a long hairstyle is the perfect way to showcase your efforts. Well cared-for, long grey hair can look stylish and sumptuous.
Choppy shag haircut on grey hair
The choppy shag has a fullness at the crown
and choppy layers which makes it the ideal look for those with thinner hair who want to give the impression of more volume and texture. Keep the Contouring Original Iron on hand to touch up that texture.
Grey waves with dark roots
For a modern, grown-up take on the long hair look, ask your hair stylist for dark roots blended into your greys. This dramatic style is a sophisticated statement for greying women of any age.
Long grey waves
Long waves are ideal for those with thick grey hair. Whether your waves are natural or made with a heated styling tool like the Cloud Nine Curling Wand, this look is simple to achieve and gives the impression of abundant, healthy strands, regardless of age.
Grey curly hairstyles
Whether you're rocking tight coils, curls, or loose waves, curly grey hair exudes a sense of timeless charm. These hairstyles will help you embrace your natural texture and let your curls run wild.
Layered curly shag on grey hair
Choppy layers are a great way to showcase grey curly hair. By cutting your hair dry, your hairdresser can snip the curls to the perfect length and shape. Once it’s cut, the shag is one of the most low-maintenance styles out there.
Layered, grey, curly swing bob
For a sophisticated curly grey hairstyle that’s easy to maintain, go for a layered swing bob. Ask your hairdresser to cut it dry to get the perfect shape. Bring your parting to the side to allow some curls to cascade down and shape your face. Touch up with the Texture Wand.
Curly grey pixie cut
You can’t go wrong with a classic curly pixie cut. Short layers are especially great if you are only just growing out your grey roots. The pixie cut is the perfect starting point for growing your grey hair longer, as you can adapt it as it grows.
Greying hair care
The key to how to make grey hair look good lies in treating it with kindness.
When you go grey, you may notice that your hair loses strength, durability, suppleness and moisture, along with colour. But with some extra TLC, grey hair can be healthy hair.
Try these tips for healthy shine well into your grey-haired years:
- Choose a grey-specific shampoo and conditioner: Look for those specially designed to care for grey or silver hair – they’re often packed with antioxidants, vitamins and moisture-boosting ingredients, and are formulated to be gentle on fragile strands.
- Hydrate and moisturise: Grey hair craves hydration. That's where Cloud Nine Magical Remedy comes in. Treat your greys to a luxurious deep conditioning session once a week to keep your hair feeling silky smooth. Discover more tips and information about hair hydration.
- Protect your greys: Grey hair lacks pigment, leaving it more susceptible to sun damage. Wear a stylish hat or hair scarf when soaking up the sun. Use UV protection sprays to keep your hair safe from the sun's harmful rays.
- Use a purple toner: There are many different shades of grey – and as your hair loses pigment, it can be prone to discolouration from environmental factors. Treat yourself to a purple toner which may help banish yellow or dull tones to bring out the brilliance of your white or grey hair. These come in many forms, including wash-out products, shampoos, and moisturising toner masks.
- Get regular trims: Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to cut your hair short when it turns grey to keep it healthy. With regular care, conditioning, and a trim every 6-8 weeks, you can prevent split ends and breakage, keeping your grey hair looking sleek and polished.
- Care for your scalp: Don't forget about the foundation of your hair – your scalp. Keep it healthy and nourished by incorporating scalp massages into your routine to stimulate circulation and promote hair growth. You can also use scalp-friendly products to maintain a healthy pH balance and prevent dryness or irritation. Check out our easy-to-follow scalp care rituals.
- Keep a balanced diet: Fuel your hair from the inside out by maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, B C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and biotin. These nutrients support hair health and can help prevent dryness,brittleness, and premature greying. Discover more about nutrition and hair health.
Grey hair styling tips
Styling grey hair is all about enhancing its natural beauty while keeping it healthy and vibrant. Here’s a roundup of our top tips for styling your gorgeous greys:
- Add volume and texture: Pump up the volume by using volumising products at the roots and adding texture with texturising sprays or mousses for that extra oomph.
- Use products sparingly: Try to avoid overloading your hair with products which could way it down and leave it looking limp, thin and greasy.
- Reconsider your temperature: When you go grey, it’s a great time to reassess your styling routine. Your hair’s needs may have changed with its colour and texture. That’s why it’s important to check in with the Cloud Nine Temperature Calculator to make sure you’re styling with the right heat to lock-in shine without risking damage.
- Styling kinder: Treat your grey hair with extra kindness by minimising heat styling and being gentle with your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush like our Luxury Dressing Brush to prevent breakage and minimise stress on your hair. Heated styling tools with Customisable Temperature Control like our Contouring Original Iron and Airshot Pro also give you plenty of styling options while being kind to your grey hair. The Contouring Original Iron comes with Revive Mode® which minimises heat contact for safe styling, at all temperature settings.
- Protect your hair from heat: Apply a few spritzes of a heat protection spray like the Cloud Nine Magical Quick Dry Potion to help protect your hair from heat before styling. Check out our expert-informed Temperature Calculator for help in choosing the best temperature for your delicate grey hair.
Advice for growing out grey hair
Thinking about embracing your natural grey hair but not quite sure how to make the transition?
Here are some tips to help you rock your grey hair journey like a boss:
- Be patient: Greying is a journey, so take a deep breath and enjoy the ride. Everyone’s hair goes grey at different ages and rates – it’s one of your body’s unique quirks. The end result will be worth the wait.
- Transition slowly: If you're used to colouring your hair, consider easing into your natural grey gradually. Start by stretching out your salon visits or trying a low-maintenance hair colour that blends seamlessly with your grey roots.
- Consult a professional: Feeling overwhelmed? Book a chat with a hairstylist who specialises in grey hair. They'll give you personalised advice and create a transition plan that fits your style and personality.
- Accessorise: Have fun with scarves, headbands, and hair accessories to add a pop of colour and disguise any noticeable regrowth.
- Experiment: Get creative with updos that blend your natural grey hair with any remaining coloured sections.
- Go lighter: If you're not ready to fully embrace your grey hair, try lighter hair dyes or root touch-ups for a more natural look. And don't forget about semi-permanent options for a subtle colour boost.
- Texture and volume: Add some oomph to your hair with a curling iron or texturising products. Curling your hair can help disguise regrowth and create a seamless transition as you embrace your greys. The Curling Wand is the perfect heated styling wand for adding a little texture to greying hair. Its Customisable Temperature Control enables you to choose the temperature that suits your changing hair, making it a kinder styling option.
- Be kind to yourself: Remember, this journey is all about embracing your natural beauty and loving yourself exactly as you are. Resist the urge to compare your grey hair to others’ – everyone is on their own unique hair journey.
Grey hair product recommendations
These products form the perfect toolkit for grey hairstyles of every length:
The Airshot Pro
Discover a gentler way to dry with the Airshot Pro – our most advanced hair dryer yet. As well as being ultra-light and ultra-quiet, it’s expert technology makes it the perfect choice for grey or greying hair, as it provides you with enhanced temperature control. It’s Sericite®-infused element provides a boost of shine, while its Ionic airflow reduces static for a smooth finish.
The Contouring Original Iron
Choose a versatile way to style that can be adapted to your evolving greys. The Contouring Original Iron has 11 customisable heat settings, putting you in control of kinder styling, while its pressure-reducing Revive Mode® handles your silver strands with care. The curved, Sericite®-infused plates make it simple to straighten, curl or wave the gentle way.
Shop the Contouring Original Iron
Magical Remedy
As you’ve already learned, grey hair has a stronger craving for moisture. Quench its thirst with a three-in-one solution. Magical Remedy is the ideal deep conditioner, moisturising mask, and leave-in treatment for grey hair, as it is formulated with shine and strength-enhancing ingredients.
Magical Quick Dry Potion
Heat protection is important for hair of all
types and ages – but it’s vital for more fragile hair, including greys. Cloud Nine Magical Quick Dry Potion doesn’t just speed up drying time, it’s also formulated to condition while its shields your strands from heat, resulting in sleeker, shinier hair with fewer flyaways.
Grey hair FAQs
What causes grey hair?
Hair turns grey when melanocytes, cells responsible for producing pigment, decrease their output as we age, resulting in less colour in our hair. This happens at different ages and rates for different people – with genetic and other health and wellbeing factors at play.
For some people, grey hair is caused by underlying health conditions like nutritional deficiencies or thyroid disorders.
Grey hair can come in all sorts of textures, just like any other hair colour. As you age, you may notice your hair change texture as well as colour.
Can grey hair be reversed or prevented?
There is no known way to prevent grey hair as its cause is – at least partially – down to genetics and the natural ageing process.
However, it’s thought that treating your hair and body right could slow down the greying process. Healthy eating, managing stress, and giving your hair some love can only be beneficial to your hair. The top three pieces of advice for slowing down greying are to avoid smoking, eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, and to use antioxidant-rich hair products.
What’s the normal age to get grey hair?
There is no single ‘normal’ age to go grey. Some people start seeing grey hairs in their 20s or 30s, while others keep their natural colour well into their golden years. It's all about your unique genetic makeup, lifestyle, and health.
Does stress cause grey hair?
We've all heard the rumour that stress can turn your hair grey overnight, but it’s not as simple as that. That said, chronic stress can mess with your health in all sorts of ways – and that might include speeding up the greying process.
Does ginger hair go grey?
Just like everyone else, people with ginger
or red hair can experience greying hair. However, it may be less noticeable,
especially if their original hair colour is on the lighter side.
Does everyone get grey hair?
Grey hair is a bit like a rite of passage as we get older. Eventually, most of us will start spotting some grey hairs here and there. How many grey hairs you get depends on lifestyle factors and genetics.
Is grey hair genetic?
Genetics do play a role in when, and how much of your hair turns grey. While your parents' hair can give you a hint of what's to come, it's not set in stone. Other things such as lifestyle choices and environmental factors also influence the onset of grey hair.
Is grey hair in style?
Grey hair is timeless and beautiful – it’s always in style. Since it’s a natural phase we all go through, it’s immune to fashion trends. There are a wide range of haircuts and styling techniques you can use to make your greys feel stylish and modern.
Whether you're fully embracing your natural grey or just dipping your toes into the trend, we hope our guide has given you all the confidence and inspiration you need to embrace your grey hair in whichever way you want to.
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