How to Grow Out Dyed Hair
Red, blonde, brunette… ombre, babylights… natural? We’ve tried all the hair color trends over the years and love and support all the hair color experimentation folks try. But maybe now you’ve been wondering “what actually is my hair color?” Or, maybe you’re ready to embrace the gray. Or, perhaps you just want to save some time and money. No matter the reason, if you’re feeling the itch to get back to your natural hair color we’d imagine there’s one significant barrier - the grow-out period. “Patience” is not a good enough strategy for getting through that painful time, so we’re here with some tricks and tips to get you through it.
Understanding Your Hair Growth Cycle
Hair grows at an average rate of about half an inch per month, though this can vary depending on factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health. Recognizing this cycle is crucial as you plan your journey to grow out dyed hair. It typically takes several months to a year or more to fully transition from dyed hair to your natural color, depending on the length of your hair and how drastic the color difference is. Level setting this timeline in your mind can help you manage that dreaded patience.
Choosing a Transition Strategy
One last stint at the hairdye chair can be a helpful strategy. For both of these two options, we highly recommend paying a pro to get it right. After all, this should be your last time dying your hair for a while, so it’s worth the price.
- Gradual Blending: If your natural hair color is significantly different from your dyed color, consider blending the two gradually. This can be achieved by adding highlights or lowlights that match your natural shade, helping to soften the stark contrast as your roots grow out.
- Color Correction: For those with drastically different dyed hair, especially if it’s darker than your natural shade, you might opt for color correction treatments to gradually lighten the dyed color closer to your natural hair color.
Maintaining Hair Health
Healthy hair is more resilient and looks better during the growing-out phase. Here’s how to maintain it:
Regular Trims: Schedule regular trims (every 8-12 weeks) to gradually remove the dyed ends without sacrificing too much length. This also helps prevent split ends and keeps your hair looking tidy.
Deep Conditioning: Use deep conditioning treatments regularly to keep your hair hydrated and nourished, as dyeing can strip moisture from your hair.
Protective Styling: Minimize heat styling and protect your hair from environmental damage by using heat protectants and wearing hats or scarves when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Styling Tips
During the growing-out phase, experiment with different hairstyles to blend the transition and keep your look fresh. Consider:
Hair Accessories: Use headbands, scarves, or hair clips to add style and camouflage the growing roots.
Texturizing Products: Use texturizing sprays or dry shampoos to add volume and texture, which can help blend different hair colors more seamlessly.
Patience and Confidence
Growing out dyed hair requires patience and confidence in your natural beauty. Embrace the journey and focus on the health of your hair throughout the process. Remember, it’s a personal journey, and there’s no rush to achieve the final result overnight.
Growing out dyed hair is a journey that requires care, patience, and sometimes a bit of creativity. Whether you choose to blend the colors gradually or make a bold statement with your natural shade, prioritizing hair health and embracing the process will ensure you feel confident and beautiful every step of the way. Enjoy the journey to rediscovering your natural hair and the freedom it brings!