March 12, 2017

While the term ‘silver fox’ may sound appealing to the ladies (think Mr Clooney himself) it’s a daunting thought for most guys, particularly those of us under 35.

Just like those pesky ‘smile lines’ and creaky bones, grey hair often feels like it comes out of nowhere and can make you feel really, really old. But, not to fear - whether it happens in your twenties or not until you’re zimmer-framing around the rest home bar, it’s perfectly natural to go grey. The question is (actually there’s two questions): when will it happen to you? And - most importantly - what can you do about it?

Genetics, Stress and Aging

Hair colour all comes down to a pigment in the skin, called melanin. As we get older, we produce less melanin which in turn can cause a change in our hair colour thus turning it grey. For most of us this begins when we hit those dirty thirties, but the age you start going grey all comes down to one main factor: genetics.

Caucasians tend to go grey earlier, followed by Asians and African-Americans. Redheads may not go grey at all, or at the very least their hair colour won’t change much at all with just a smattering of greys throughout.

One thing you can be sure of: stress doesn’t cause your hair colour to change. You can’t give yourself grey hair, despite the fact that it feels like it sometimes.

Preventative Measures

If it’s in your genes you can’t fight it, but there are lifestyle choices you can make to stave off going grey earlier than necessary. A healthy, nutrient rich diet helps, as does avoiding smoking and getting a safe dose of Vitamin D from the sun each day.

If you’re still under 35 and experiencing a more grey than any other hair colour, it’s best to get seen by your doctor. Research suggests that prematurely acquiring grey hair may mean a vitamin B12 deficiency or issues with your thyroid or pituitary gland.

There’s no cure (yet) for going grey, however word on the street is that scientists are working on a pill that may prevent going grey.

What About Grey Beards?

It’s important to keep a grey beard well trimmed and maintained. A structured style is the best look when it comes to salt and pepper beards. If you choose to dye your beard, ensure that you select a shade that matches your hair colour so that there is no obvious difference between the two.

To Dye or Not to Dye?

Whether you choose to embrace going grey or to fight it, hair colouring is a great way to keep your hair looking fresh, shiny and healthy. Everyone’s shade is different so it pays to do your research and ensure you’re getting the right tone for your skin and natural features, particularly if you’re dying over grey hair.

Colouring your hair at home has never been easier, and modern products mean that no one will notice your new look - unless you want them to of course.

Check out our Clooney Colour range here for nutrient rich hair colour designed for men, right here in New Zealand.