Growing out gray hair is a journey of self-acceptance, patience and care—I know because I started experiencing my first grays a few years back. It brings up big questions: Do you go all-in or take a gradual going-gray approach? And how do you embrace the process (without losing your mind)? Whatever you decide—and keep in mind, the decision is deeply personal—the key is adopting a routine to keep your hair healthy and hydrated through it all. With deep hydration, a balanced diet and regular trims, you can keep your grays looking stunning, whether you choose to hide them or flaunt them.

As we age, our hair naturally changes—and for many of us, that includes going gray. This happens because our hair gradually produces less melanin, the pigment responsible for color. On average, hair grows about half an inch per month, so depending on your length, transitioning to gray could take anywhere from a year to several years. Not ideal, no. But don’t worry—we can help.

For starters, you don’t have to go cold turkey (meaning, you don’t have to dive right in!). Instead, you could soften the gray growth with some sort of blend in the form of lowlights or highlights. I personally love this approach as it doesn’t feel so drastic. Another idea is to reduce how often you color your hair. This slow transition helps you adjust mentally and visually, which again, makes the change feel less drastic. Just knowing that there’s more than one way to get there can help.

Growing out gray hair is as much a mental shift as it is a physical one. Try reminding yourself that gray hair is not only natural but also incredibly chic. Take influencers like Grece Ghanem and Yazemeenah Rossi, or icons like Andie MacDowell and Jamie Lee Curtis—they’ve all proudly embraced their silver strands, proving how empowering it can be. Follow them on Instagram for inspiration, and better yet, try out some of their styles—both hair, and fashion! It could be just the lift you need. 

I remember when my mom decided to grow out her gray hair. It wasn’t easy at first. Seeing those first silver roots made her spiral a little, and I remember it pretty vividly. I’m sure she was thinking the same things I’m thinking as I see a few gray strands poking through. “I’m too young for this! What is happening? I don’t want to look 20 years older!” and so on. But with time, she learned to love it—both the texture (it’s definitely different from what she was used to!) and color. Even more importantly, she started to realize it’s part of her story—and I’m learning the same, too—a reflection of the life we’ve both lived and the strength we’ve gained. And it’s not so bad. Self-love, friends! Life’s too short for anything else.

Keeping your hair healthy during this process is key. It’s not just about what’s on your head (read: the products you use), but also what’s on your plate. A diet rich in biotin, omega-3s and vitamins like E and D can make a big difference. Stay hydrated, reduce stress and get regular trims to keep your hair looking and feeling its best.

There’s no one-size-fits-all method for transitioning to gray hair, so here are a few options to consider:

Natural blending: Like previously mentioned, if you’re not ready for the stark contrast, highlights or lowlights can help soften the transition as your grays grow in. Cool tones can mimic the natural graying pattern as well, and a balayage is also a great (softer) option.

Gradual coloring: Again, slowly reducing how often you color your hair is a simple, albeit off-routine, way to help those grays grow in naturally without that harsh line.

Cold turkey: Embrace the roots and let them take over naturally. Yes, this requires patience, but sometimes the best, most liberating way to achieve something is the most straightforward approach.

Only you know how much change you can handle at once, so do what feels right. Working with a stylist can also help you find the best approach for your hair type and lifestyle. Lucky for you, we know some great ones. 

If your hair is currently dyed, growing it out can feel like an especially daunting task. Start by gently fading your color with clarifying shampoos or transitioning to semi-permanent dyes that wash out over time. Nourishing treatments, like deep conditioning masks, are your best friend here. Remember: Hydration isn’t optional—it’s essential. Keeping your hair hydrated and strong is the goal.

Your last step is applying a conditioner for colored hair (or a conditioner for your hair type if it’s not colored). And finally, something to note is that although it can’t permanently change the color of your strands, the blue pigments can stain your shower floor or walls, so be sure to rinse it off right away.

Factors like your hair’s growth rate, overall length and the approach you choose can all impact the timeline. On average, it takes 18 to 24 months to fully grow out gray hair, but this will differ for everyone. If you’re feeling impatient and eager to speed things up, a shorter haircut might be the way to go!

The middle of the journey can feel the most difficult and awkward, but it’s also where the magic happens. It’s similar to the struggling of growing out bangs, transitioning from relaxed to natural curls or letting a bob grow out—it takes time, patience and some creativity. Here are a few tricks to try:

1. Experiment with hairstyles like braids or updos to blend your gray and colored hair.

2. Accessories like headbands and scarves can be lifesavers.

3. Toning shampoosand conditionersare your secret weapon to keep brassiness at bay.

Remember, it’s all about confidence. The awkward stage is just temporary, and soon, you’ll be rocking a fully silver mane that feels completely you.

Gray hair has its own personality—it can be a bit drier and more prone to yellowing. That’s why a good, targeted hair care routine is essential. Davines has an incredible product line that will work wonders. The Alchemic Silver Shampoo and Conditioner neutralize brassiness with violet pigments while keeping hair soft and hydrated. For deep nourishment, the Nounou Hair Mask replenishes moisture and restores elasticity, preventing brittleness (this is key with grays), while the OI All-In-One Milk adds lightweight hydration, tames frizz and protects against heat damage. Tailoring your routine to meet your gray hair’s unique needs—regular and extra hydration, toning and protection—makes all the difference. 

Growing out your gray hair isn’t just a hairstyle choice—it’s a powerful statement of self-acceptance. The journey may have its challenges (ok, it will—so better to accept that part now), but the results are worth it. Celebrate your individuality and beauty as you age, care for your hair at this (and every) stage and most of all, own your transformation with pride. I’m rooting for you :) 

by Morgan Hansen, featured contributor