Grey Hair Dye Checklist: Make Safer, Smarter Choices
If you have a sensitive scalp, start here. Use this quick checklist to pick PPD-free, ammonia-free, low-odour colour. Decide between grey blending and full coverage. Learn label tips and a simple 24-hour patch test.
Quick Buyer’s Checklist
- Skin history: Ever reacted to dye? Choose PPD-free, ammonia-free, and fragrance-free.
- Patch test: Do a 24-hour test before first use or shade changes.
- Desired result: Grey blending for soft, natural look. Full coverage for solid shade.
- Shade plan: Stay close to your natural level. Cool tones mute brass. Warm tones add softness.
- Formula type: No-mix for speed and comfort. Mix-at-use for stronger cover.
- Odour & fumes: Pick low-odour systems for daily comfort.
- Scalp comfort: Look for “hypoallergenic”, “sensitive scalp”, and soothing additives.
- Time & upkeep: Weekly top-ups for blending. 3–5 weeks for root cover.
- Budget: Check cost per use, not only sticker price.
Decode the Label (INCI)
Read the ingredient list. These points help:
- Absent: PPD (p-phenylenediamine), heavy fragrance/parfum, harsh ammonia.
- Consider: PTD、resorcinol、MEA—some users still react. Patch test first.
- Good signs: Conditioning agents, mild surfactants, scalp-friendly pH.
- Claims: “PPD-free”, “ammonia-free”, “no-mix”, “low-odour”, “hypoallergenic”.
Blending vs Full Coverage
- Grey blending: Softens white strands. Hair stays natural. Fade is gentle.
- Full coverage: Opaque results. Best for high % grey or big shade change.
- Face hair / temples: Often need longer time or targeted product.
No-Mix vs Mix-at-Use
- No-mix: Faster. Great comfort. Ideal for maintenance and sensitive scalps.
- Mix-at-use: More control on developer strength. Better for resistant greys.
24-Hour Patch Test (Fast Steps)
- Clean a small spot behind ear.
- Apply a pea-size amount. Let dry.
- Leave for 24 hours. Do not wash.
- Redness, burning, or swelling? Do not use.
Application Basics
- Work on dry hair. Section first.
- Start where grey is most visible.
- Coat evenly from roots. Do not oversaturate ends.
- Process as directed. No heat unless the label says so.
- Rinse until water runs clear. Then gentle shampoo and condition.
Care & Upkeep
- Use a colour-safe, hypoallergenic shampoo.
- Condition each wash. Add a weekly mask if hair feels dry.
- Limit hot tools. Heat fades tone fast.
- Top-up grey blending weekly. Do root coverage every 3–5 weeks.
FAQs
Will PPD-free colour last?
Yes. Wear depends on wash habits, shade, and porosity. Blending fades softer than full cover.
Is no-mix strong enough?
For many users, yes. It excels at maintenance and comfort. Very resistant greys may need mix-type.
Can I use it on a beard?
Do a fresh patch test. Use short times and avoid skin overlap.
Ready to start? Try a bundle set for value, or our no-mix gray blending system. Pair with a hypoallergenic, colour-safe shampoo for best comfort.
