These 50 Women Who Ditched Dyeing Their Hair Look So Good It May Convince You To Do The Same
Back in the day, gray hair used to be associated with wisdom and knowledge. In many places, it still is, for men at least. But our society still seems to have a collective issue with the natural aging process of the female human being, so reaching for the dye as soon as the first silvery sprouts appear is de rigueur for the vast majority of women under the age of 60.
However, the times they are a-changin.' Think of the hours and money spent in the hairdressers' chair, unquestioningly accepting the 'taboo' surrounding something perfectly normal and natural. Why should it be this way? 26-year-old Martha Truslow Smith decided that enough was enough, and founded the Instagram account grombre as a place of support and positivity for those women who choose to embrace their roots.
“The underlying reason I started Grombre was to start a different dialogue around gray hair on women and find the answer to some earnest questions of my own: "Is it true that my gray hair is ugly, makes me look old, and means I'm no longer good enough?,” Martha told Bored Panda. “I’m only in my twenties. If that is true, how will I feel and what will I believe about myself when I’m in my 40s, 50s, 60s?" I want to challenge the way we think about what we consider “beautiful,” and why, and propose that we have more important things to spend our precious time, energy and resources on if we find our hearts aren’t aligning with the things we find to be someone else’s biases.”
Helped along by celebrities like Lady Gaga who promoted the silver/platinum 'trend,' having gray hair is becoming something to be celebrated, rather than hidden, although Martha is a little skeptical about this. “The thing about silver hair dye is that it’s just that; it’s dye,” she told us. “I respectfully don’t understand the comparison between natural silver hair and dyed silver hair: between these two, one challenges the perspective of yourself, your priorities, and your insecurities, all while being a public statement of vulnerability that takes patience to endure, while the other is a chosen color that can change on any given day and may or may not reflect your natural self; the comparison takes two different categories and wraps it up in several neglected conversations. This isn’t said to knock anyone who is dying their hair- if you enjoy it, go for it! If you don’t, then the question I ask is: should you have to?”
These women have all ditched the dye and look simply stunning, and their stories only inspire more to have the courage to do the same, if they so choose. We here at Bored Panda have collected a list of the inspiring ladies from grombre, you can scroll down to meet them yourself. We'll leave you with some wise words of advice from Martha for young women who find themselves going gray: “Don’t fret over others opinions, instead, follow your calling, and you’ll surprise yourself with how strong you are and where your path will lead you.”
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Natural Gray Hair
“My first gray hair memory was when I was 7 years old. I remember being at school, I had long hair, and it caught my attention. I yanked it out, but never really thought much of it because I thought it was normal; both my parents have ALWAYS had grey since my earliest childhood memories.
It wasn't until I got married and I had my second child at 22 that I started to go salt and pepper. One day, my female boss was leaning over from behind as I sat at my desk, and she made a comment, ‘oh my goodness, for such a young woman, you sure have LOTS of grey!’ I felt so embarrassed and ashamed; I did not want to be considered old! So from the age of approximately 24 I started to dye my hair dark brown, the closest I could get to my "natural" color. I did those until I was 41 years old.
By then, I was coloring every 2 weeks! I hated it. It grew out so fast, all I could see was a white skunk line. Sometimes when I traveled, I would pack a box of dye in my luggage, just in case. I would be mortified if anyone even suspected that I had grey hair.
Many times I tried growing it out, but I felt like I would look hagard and old, and then I'd give in, and re-dye; it was like alcohol addiction...always back to the bottle!
Anyhow, I was going to turn 42, and I made a bet with myself... I would go cold turkey for 12 months (no matter what) and see what was really growing underneath the dye. My heart was ready.
I got many (unwanted) opinions from friends and my kids, ‘don't do it, you're gonna look old...’ ‘Why are you letting yourself go?’
I did it, it took me 3 years to grow it out completely. I didn't do the big chop, instead, I kept cutting the ends.
I have been dye free for 6 years now; I love me and my hair. I get compliments ALL the time. As a matter of fact, people in general think I'm in my 30's; I'm 48.
...and because of my hair, I model for stock photos!
I feel more vibrant and beautiful today more than I ever did than when I dyed it. My husband has nicknamed me his ‘SILVER FOX.’”
You are gorgeous!! Thank you for being fantastic!! I was expecting to see women who were not anywhere close to my age, and it is delightful to see such a gorgeous person as yourself who is not 20 and has such lovely natural hair!!
How wonderful to hear about another "silver sister" who's hair changed early! By the time I was 16 I had silver strands-and was asked by my first work boss if I had been painting the house over the weekend....LOL. I dyed my hair for years after hearing "you have a beautiful grandchild!" when walking my son (I was 40 y/o when I had him). I'm now told that I actually look better and younger with silver hair <3. You go, girl....rock on! <3
Curly Gray Hair
“Deciding to let my white hair grow in was a moment of acceptance of who I am. My hair color does not define my youth! I feel young, healthy, & beautiful. Having white natural hair is empowering!! Love not being controlled by societal standards of beauty but my own. I have never colored my hair...I love not being a slave to dying it. Not to mention it is massively better for my natural curls”
Another woman with 28 years with grey hair. If you say that you have more , I will have to call you liar. Strong,confident and beautiful woman.🥰
Gray Hair
“Now that my transition is complete and with the winter light my hair seems more white than grey.... I love all the shades though! It looks different every day!”
Oh, Ms. Aniston only wishes she were this pretty.
Load More Replies...Ok, am I the only one that thinks there's maybe a bit of blue color all mixed in with that grey! Yes, I'm sure the jacket is the main cause for this, but it still looks not completely natural... Forgive me for doubting!
Looks like Jennifer Aniston! Parts of her hair look blue, though. Not natural.
Gray Hair Streaks
“I was 12 years old when the boy I had a crush on pointed out my first grey hair. He meant no harm, but I was mortified. Since then there were years of plucked hair and boxed dye. It has now been 4 years of growing out the roots and fully embracing the grey. 26 years old and I wouldn't have it any other way.”
I would say she looks more like Rogue right now, until her hair is fully gray!
Load More Replies...Only if my streak was on top I would not dye! Mines are starting in lower lobes
I found a grey hair on my head yesterday and ripped it out now I regret that decision
Long Gray Hair
“My name is Lhin. I am 37 years old from Thailand. 🇹🇭 I have had gray hair since I was in high school. It keeps changing the color more through the years. I had to dye my hair almost every month.
Four years ago, I decided to let my gray hair grow out and embrace my natural color. Despite some mean comments from neighbors, I didn’t care and went on with my daily life. Nowadays, I am asked by people all the time, “where did I get my hair done!?”They love it and want to have this color too.
I love my hair and I feel blessed that I embrace it and let this color become me. I am happy to see this grombre ladies out there. Thank you for raising awareness of people around the world.
I want to shoutout for someone who is struggling with a similar story like me; keep being yourself and embrace it. Because you are absolutely beautiful in your own way!”
Yes, just tell us where you found this beautiful kind of grey , and where you done your hair. It's beautiful.
Long Natural Hair
“I’ve been greying since the age of 13 and I’ve never dyed my hair. Furthermore, I’ve been growing it since 12 and I have entirely forfeited cutting it five years ago. I’m profoundly happy with the way it looks. The colour and the length combined are one of my favourite attributes.
Never have I ever felt like it made me look older! Instead it gets me the sweetest and most magical compliments, some of which I’m sure you’re familiar with: looking avant-garde, otherworldly or like a fairy, an elf, or Frozen-Anna.
My current life on an organic farm somehow resonates with my natural hair, and for me it’s another way for my femininity to shine through. I hope to inspire as many as possible, to be brave enough to embrace and show who and what they truly are on the inside.”
i have like a fourth of her hair length and can barely take care of it. you go girl!
Can you imagine having to color that much hair every few weeks? Seems to me she made the right decision.
😍 Beautiful, she can really pull this off. Red lipped makes everything look great
It's nice now, but I would probably cut it a bit eventually, to avoid it dragging on the ground and all.
You have absolutely beautiful hair. I only wish mine would grow like yours. Wow!!!
White Hair
“Born with grey and black hair. First female in 7 generations! I was teased incessantly because kids are jerks so I started dying it when I was 14. When I had my first son at 29 I noticed the gray become white in the front so I began to just leave a streak out and dye from the streak back like rogue from X-Men. About year and a half ago my stylist told me that all my gray was now white so we went for it. I feel like I found hardwood under the carpet! I’ll never go back.”
Thanks for the love! Odd to find yourself in an article...even odder to see accusations that it’s fake. My hair is a conversation piece, I’ll give it that 🤪
Natural Silver Hair
“Hope everyone had a Happy Mother’s Day!
I get it from my momma!
Gray Roots
"I have dyed my hair since I was 18, now at 42 I can not wait to see my gray curls. Gray is freedom"
Beautiful ! you do not look 42 ! I was thinking she is 19,20 years old
That’s partially bc she’s wearing a lot of foundation and concealer, that tends to make the skin look younger without wrinkles or blemishes. The photo does look a little touched up as well.
Load More Replies...Love your curls and the gray will look very nice:). You definitely don't look over 30!
Gray Hair Ombre
Think of all that livin you get to do when you stop masking your true Self ✌🏼”
I can't believe that there are commenters who say she should be wearing a bra or should close the robe! Get a life, people. Jealous much? This woman is stunning and sexy and is entitled to dress however she wants to. In fact she reminds me of India Summer, an adult movie star, who is still performing at 43 and is probably the sexiest woman in the business. I get the feeling that the woman in this pic is confident and happy in her body and that is something that is wonderful and inspiring to see.
Wow. That statement was so powerful to me. I am seriously reevaluating my opinion of myself.
I’ve saved almost $7000 in the past 10 years by not coloring my long hair every 4-5 weeks and letting it grow out naturallySalt & Pepper gray. I love it and it’s great to have that extra money each month as well.
Load More Replies...Beautiful Gray Hair
Celebrating TWO years of being grey! It's easy to get caught up in the everyday bumps and bruises, and losing sight of the scope of your progress is all too easy to do. Be encouraged! Hold onto the hope that today is easier than yesterday, and you're one step closer to your goals. How applicable to everything we put our minds to. If we can do this, imagine all that we can accomplish by taking it one day at a time. Thanks for inspiring and encouraging me with your own journeys.
On a similar note, I am in week 3 of regrowing my white beard along with my white hair and prominent white eyebrows. I have never dyed my hair and Casting Directors seem to like it Lizzie-3rd...ee3855.jpg
Love this. Not only her hair (which is beautiful) but the reasoning behind why she's doing it is truly inspiring to me.
Natural Hair
“I had been coloring my hair for fun and dramatic effect since I was 16. When I started to go gray, coloring my hair stopped being "fun". It felt like I was hiding something that I was supposed to be ashamed of. About 5 years ago, I decided to go gray. All on it's own, my hair became what I'd been trying to achieve for years through dyes -- dynamic, unique, and vibrant. It feels so good to just be myself.”
I'm in love with your whole aesthetic, it's how I want to look when I'm older. I hope that I'll age that gracefully. (I'm just 15)
Short Gray Hair
“A woman turned to me when we were both warming up to be adjusted and said, ‘I’m so sick of dying my hair and I’ve been thinking about letting it go.’
⠀
We talked a bit about what the grow-out process has been like over the past year-and-a-half and made small talk but what’s been nagging at me is her words. ‘Letting it go.’
⠀
I am fully aware that there is a view out there that gray hair is less-than. That it’s unkempt or seen as not taking care of yourself. I know this because these used to be my thoughts too.
⠀
These culturally institutionalized thoughts inform our words and ultimately our actions.
⠀
But little did I know - over the past year or so, my actions have informed my words which have impacted and reshaped my thoughts. I guess it works both ways.
⠀
So hear this.
▫️I’m not letting my hair go. I’m letting myself be.
▫️I am not giving up on myself. I am getting to know myself.
▫️I am not evading old age. I am growing in grace.
▫️I’m not keeping up. I’m stepping out.
▫️Gray is beautiful.
▫️I am beautiful.
I could sign this statement as if it were mine! I started turning gray at the age of 30, and was covering it up relentlessly. It was a fools errand, since the white and gray would grow out so fast, I would need to color my hair every 3 weeks. My 50th birthday was a turning point, I went pixie short and let my hair be from there on. There were some patronizing comments from family and friends, but I could not care less. I am free. My hair is amazing now, healthy, strong, perfectly shaded white and grey and dark. I am me, and embracing it was an empowering moment that helped me in many other aspects of my life. I'm 52 now and my hair is like a shining crown on my head. :-)
Love your words! I would only add the comment that to keep it natural is much better for mind, body and spirit, by not adding the harsh chemicals and dyes that poison us.
What's the name of the lady? I've seen her pictures before and trying to find her again to follow on Instagram as I love the look
I loved what you said! Every time I mention that I want to let my grey hair grow some friends jump to the conclusion that it's a lack of self-care, it's not, I just want to accept it.
I am so glad you shared your story! You are so right about "letting it go" as opposed to "letting it be." I confess, at about 6-7 months in, it felt like I was letting it go. But still, I persisted. I was rewarded with a beautiful head of silvery white hair. Healthy, silvery, white hair! I get compliments all the time. I do not get "you look older" ever. My hair color compliments my skin tone. I'm 63 now, but I wish I would never have even started the process of dying it and just let...it...be!
Stunning Hair Coloring
“Going grey was a huge game changer for me... It was like learning who I was all over again... same me in a different frame (of mind).”
It looks like it was done on purpose, like a sliver blue. In fact, yeah. It is dyed the gray parts.
I started going grey at 14. Dyed my hair from the age of 16 for the next 30 years. $$$$$ down the drain, literally. Am still growing my grey out, I have days when I love the look, and days when it makes me feel old. Over the festive season I decided to try a temporary hair dye in turquoise - my greys lapped the colour up, and mingled with what black hairs I still have, and looked great. Finally, I have coloured hair without needing to bleach/lighten first! I get strange looks from people, but I've been getting strange looks from people when my hair was grey + black, only now it's turquoise + black. This might become my festive hair colour trend.
I have a lot of gray on the top and front (I'm 34 had grays since 17) I just started dying my hair a solid purple, after about 6 months I did blue. Hey blend from blue, to purple to dark brown/black at the bottom. The different shades I get with it are amazing, super bright where my grays are and true rest blends into my medium brown hair. I kind of love it :D
I love her. I follow her on tik tok. She is the person that has helped move me in the direction to consider getting off the bottle lol.
You look so cool. You are an inspiration to me. I am growing out my gray and it’s so hard because I have black hair. I look like a skunk right now. Your picture gives me the boost I need.
Short And Curly Gray Hair
"One of my many motivations to stop dying my hair was the fact that my husband would be referred to as a ‘silver fox’ while women with grey hair are simply seen as ‘old’. I felt that by continuing to dye I was perpetuating that sexism. Well, stuff that - I am grey and beautiful and I love it! Would never, ever go back.”
That's true, both men and women with gray hair are sexy and beautiful and gray hair should be accepted in women the same way it's accepted in men
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwww so cute i am jellous
If graying men are referred to as silver foxes why can't we just call graying women silver vixens? Has a nice sexy vibe in it too.
The bible says "White hair is a crown of glory" IT DID NOT SPECIFY A GENDER.
IN SOME CASES MEN CAN GET AWAY WITH IT !!!!!!! HOWEVER WE MUST BE BLESSED WITH WHAT WE HAVE !!!
Natural Hair
“This journey is not just about embracing the outward woman but also making peace with the inner woman. It's about knowing we are wonderfully and fearfully made. And since it's a privilege to grow older, we should wear our silver as a crown of honor. I believe confidence and self-acceptance are what truly make a woman beautiful...at any age! Rock your silver crown sisters and sparkle on!!”
all of you are inspiration for me at 63 & feeling 32, learning to embrace my silver hair & dye no more🙌🏽♥️
I started dying my hair only last year, but I felt so fake. Now I have decided to let it grow out and just embrace myself and the authentic person that God has created me to be. For yes, we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Looking forward to rocking my silver crown!
So true! He has made us fearfully and wonderfully. I started dying my own hair last year and have felt as if I am a fake. Now I have decided to let it grow out. I can't wait to see it. Thanks, I will rock my silver crown.
Pretty Gray Hair
“Almost got upset today when someone asked me if I was my niece’s grandma 👵 but then I got home and my husband said that I look like the best version of me.”
Exactly why I started coloring my hair. I was 31 and all white when a man came up to me and my 2 year old in CVS and asked "Out with Grandma today"? That was only one of many comments I got in that same vein. I went from white to auburn and kept it for 20 years. Right before I turned 50, I was tired of the hassle and decided to let it grow out. Best thing I ever did! My pure white hair is serving my 65 year old self very well, thank you. And today, I AM a Grandma. Wish I had the courage to just leave it back then, but it's water under the bridge. You (and I) are the best versions of ourselves. Your husband is a very smart man.
That's what always annoyed me - people look at the hair color and not directly at your face or the person as a whole. Gray hair equals grandma? I never thought so (and neither did all the men who complimented my grey quite often). You certainly don't look like a grandma now and I doubt if you did that day... more like the beautiful diva with the sassy salt and pepper mane! Love it!
Natural Hair Color
"I am almost 47. After coloring my hair for almost 25 years, I am embracing my transition to Wise Woman, part of which is allowing my hair to grow in with its natural color...silvery grey. My hair has always been my vanity, and being a redhead has been fun and liberating, but spiritually and emotionally, I am deepening and ready to share what I am learning with others. As a dear friend says, 'I am connecting to what feels true inside over what society has given as the rule book.' To everything, there is a season. "
47? wow! Again... thought you were some kind of fabulous artist is her late 20's.... maaaaybe in early 30's. Loving the ombre.... keep rocking it!
Beautiful Hair
“End of Summer, 2018, 2 1/2 years into the gray hair adventure!”
Curly Natural Hair
“I didn’t always love my grey. If I’m honest, some days Sheba (my mane’s name) and I have a love/hate relationship. 😊 Greying early was kind of a shock. Old people are supposed to be grey, right? I couldn't take it so I started dyeing it. I soon grew tired of it, because the greys always came back. One day I decided that I’d had enough. It’s been about 4 years now, and I haven’t looked back. Allowing my silver tresses to show themselves has been liberating. There are times that I wake up, and I’m over it. I want to dye it away, but I know that I never could. It’s mine; kind of like my trademark.”
Love how she named her hair. I have curly/wavy hair that sometimes doesn't cooperate and feels like it has a mind of its own. I think giving it its own name would make it more of a separate entity and less my fault for the lack of cooperation. "She" just isn't working with me today... Lol!
I thought that it was odd to name your hair... IMO!
Load More Replies...Gray Hair Streaks
“Hi! I’m from Guatemala City, Guatemala. I started noticing grey at the age of 11. Now i am 30. Havent colored my hair in 4 years. My mom, sister and me have the same haircolor"
hi. I am from Guatemala as well and will soon turn 50, have lots of grey hair too. yours look great
Shades Of Silver
“This page gives me so much life! 10 years ago is when I ditched the dye & began my transition journey! I know the transition is messy & uncomfortable. I know the stares & whispers can be abundant but... Silver Sisters, KEEP GOING!! They aren't bothered by your hair, they are intimidated by your fierce independence! There is an amazing thing that happens not only physically, but spiritually when you release yourself from the societal rules & constraints that are imposed on us about our age & appearance! You cannot dim or hinder the glow of a woman who has declared her own freedom! There is so much power right inside YOU! Stop waiting! Take your power back and RUN! A woman who loves herself is unstoppable! Stop dimming your light for the comfort of others! Why hide when you were created to stand out?!”
Beautiful Natural Hair
“I’ve had grays since age 23. I decided to let the grays grow at age 45. I receive positive compliments every day- most people ask who my colorist is. Their look of surprise when I tell them it is my own natural color is worth every penny I have saved by going natural!”
This is what my hair looked like when I was 40. I have had 35 years of "streaked" hair since. Now it's silver-white and I love it!
Patches Of Gray
“I have had patches of grey in my hair since I was 13. I have dyed my hair over 50 times since then (8 years ago!) and now I just embrace it, pretend I’m Rogue from X-Men and have a grand old time!”
that would be my first move. pretend i'm rogue from xmen. she was always my favorite
Natural Silver Hair
“When I got my hair back from cancer 5 years ago, it came back gray. I felt that my youth was taken from initially and dyed my hair every two weeks in an effort to forget. Now I embrace the grey as a sign of surviving and thriving. I love my hair. Looking forward to it being fully grey!”
It is beautiful!! You are beautiful!! I am a cancer survivor too and I think I will grow my hair out in it's natural color, too!!! Thank you for being awesome and beautiful and alive and inspiring, too
I am a survivor as well, when my hair came back white, I felt I looked too much like my mother, who died at 82. I am dying it again, but I'm thinking, not for long! Its expensive :)
Load More Replies...A warrior, wear the hair proudly. Not everyone has the opportunity to age. You have gracefully
Very pretty, and a strong young lady, a positive attitude good for the future !!!
Beautiful! Everyone who has had chemo, please ask your doctor to check your vitamin B12 level at least once a year because it can damage the intrinsic factor in the stomach which absorbs B12 from food. The reason I mention this is that low B12 can cause gray hair, & too low B12 for too long can be fatal. Also, people with low B12 should never be given laughing gas, aka nitrous oxide, because it can cause paralysis, stroke, & heart attack. B12 shots are the typical treatment for low B12; sublingual lozenges of methylcobalamin can work, too. (Ask your doctor to test you to make sure it's not too high if you self treat because too high B12 & B6 have been linked to cancer. I like my level to be within acceptable limits.) Low B12 can also be caused by vegan diet, gastric surgery, Accutane, & a rare autoimmune disease called pernicious anemia. My sister and I have pernicious anemia, so when my mom started showing the symptoms, we asked her oncologist to test her B12 & it was low.
Pretty Natural Hair
“I stopped dyeing my hair at 33 and I have never entertained the thought of going back. My skin tone has changed; dyeing my hair just wouldn't look right now. It means that people rarely forget you and I'm quite comfortable with that.”
You're beautiful...and no, people don't forget the lovely woman with the gorgeous silvery white hair!
Long Silver Hair
“After 2,5 years I can say my transition is completed! I am now proud owner of a grey kinda wavy/wild mane! Loving it!”
Pepper, salt, or both, everyone's beautiful in their own way, including you!
Load More Replies...Gorgeous Natural Hair
“I come from a family of people with white hair, so I wasn’t suprised when I started graying in my late teens. I dyed off and on in my twenties, but by the time I hit thirty, I was tired of the expense. I chopped my hair and most of the color with it which made going grey super easy. I kept a basic no frills pixie for almost a decade, but as I neared forty, I wanted something different. I have had the undercut pixie for over a year now, and I LOVE it!”
My grey hair happened similar to her story, started going a little grey in my early teens, started dying in up until I was 40. I haven’t dyed my hair since 2011 and my pocketbook is happier for it, my thick hair grows so fast. I’d have to color it every 3-4 months at $175-$250 a pop... not including a cut & style. And that was my “friend owns the salon discount” price. 👩🏻 I’m turning 49 in 12 days and I’m so greatful that I haven’t had to color my hair and have let I grow out. 👩🏻🦳
That hair looks stunning on you! They say that with a long face you shouldn't make it look longer by wearing an "updp" but on you it looks terric. You go girl!
Going Grey
“I started going grey when I was about 20 years old, and I think because I was always little different (being born without my left hand) I didn't mind that my hair was doing it's own thing. Now that I am in my mid thirties, people are always asking me where I get my hair coloured - which is amazing, because I don't do anything to it! When I tell them it's all natural, many folks don't believe me - and that makes me feel kind of lucky. I have always LOVED seeing other women with beautiful greys in their hair, because I get to see a bit of myself in them. Sometimes I even feel like a bit of a rebel for not covering my greys, and that feels really fun. ps I have a one-handed cooking show on YouTube called Stump Kitchen!”
You have such a beautiful smile. You look so confident. I had to go back to your picture when I read that you were born without your left hand. What I am getting at is thank you for sharing. Your photo radiates joy. I think your hair is fabulous.
FWIW, it is funny what people initially notice. When I saw this picture, my first thought was: her hair has the same color spectrum of the carrots she is holding. Then I read the caption, and said "huh"? I didn't even notice. As a fellow PWD I find this is not uncommon in general; people look for what they are expecting.
Check out her youtube channel! Stump Kitchen - she's hilarious, makes yummy looking vegan food that carnivores will actually eat, and she's from my hometown!
I am left handed that would be horrible for me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You have tons of amazing in you!!! :)) I love the name of the show! I am going to check it out right now!
aw, thank you!!! I LOVE new viewers - and I love answering any questions about food or stumps or whatever! <3
Load More Replies...Silver Strands
“My mom, my aunt, cousins, myself...anyone with my grandmother’s lineage has had early grays and I finally stopped dying. It has been the best decision of my life. At first my grandmother criticized me but I said this was us. This was our hair. She finally stopped dying this year. And tonight, she complimented my hair. Hers is platinum white. She said I dyed it white. I said this was all mine. And she smiled. I’m 33 and she’s 78.”
You kind of remind me of Camilla Cabello (I don't know if I spelled her name right) with the bangs, but I love the grey streaks because they're so unique and pretty.
Patch Of Silver
“My mom said I always had a small patch of silver from a child but not noticeable (I don't remember seeing grey hair as a child but my hair was thick and long so my mom would comb it and put it in really funky styles). As a young adult, I had dreadlocks but I would dye them black so they would look "healthy" and shiny. About 6 years ago, my hairdresser at the time said, "why are you dyeing these wonderful greys?!! People are paying to put grey in and covering yours up!". I stopped and embraced my silver patch. When I cut my locs off, my "mojo" (yes, that's what I call it) burst forth in all its glory... Did I say how thrilled I was to find this community?”
That's a beauty mark! I had one since i was about 18, now I am almost all grey at 55. Your hair is awesome!
Both your hair and your skin are so beautiful. You look amazing!!!
White Strands
“I'm a Mexican girl, I'm 30 years old, but I have had grey hair since I was 5 years old and I actually love it. I'm very happy to discovered hundreds of women like me.”
Sorry senorita, they like you because of who you are and not because of your beautiful hair.
Ummmm...she meant she’s glad to find more people that are like her, as in they have the same beautiful silver hair...? And calling her “senorita” ugh sounded so pretentious. How rude can people get ? Smh
Load More Replies...Beautiful Silver Hair
“Well... let’s talk about funny stuff. Silver hair has its quirks too, right? The one I laugh about the most is this one: do you remember when you had a hair tickling somewhere in your back after a bath and you couldn’t find it? But then you would go to the mirror and bingo! there it was, you could see it.
Well, not the same anymore! 🙈😂 Now I pray that all the falling white ones find their way, because they just stay there tickling and I can’t find them immediately because I can’t see them!
The struggle is real #silversisters ! 😂 Tell me the quirks you found!! 👩🏼🦳💖”
I found the texture has changed as I went grey, it used to be silky and straight, now it's a bit more wiry. But no more dye!
My greys are white in bits & silver in others... people think it is highlights in my blonde hair but I say: No honey, these are my granny streaks. Haha.
One of my house-mates calls her silvers, "Randomly occurring crystalline Highlights".. I LOVE that attitude and wish I had more of them. I'm 62 and only have a few 'stray' silvers. My Grandfather had beautiful silver-white hair in his early 60's, my Mother however, is 82 and still has 'salt-n-pepper'... Looks like I have my Mom's hair more than my Grandfather's... I haven't dyed in 2 years, hoping there would be more silver, but nope, not yet..... :( (Thinking of adding my own in, and there WILL be purple streaks when the silver does start coming in more. :)
Load More Replies...The white triangle behind the right side of her head looks like a white cat's ear.
all so beautiful. How do you start? My hair is your length, the hairdresser said I had to cut it off to go grey??
That is what I was advised by my hairdresser at the time and that was what I did, went pixie. I did not have the patience to let it grow out, the color difference between the dyed and natural hair was too sharp, so I opted for the quick but somewhat scary solution. My hair was shoulder length and purplish burgundy at the time. The first year I kept pixie, and now I let it grow to a Helen Mirren kinda look. ^-^ I am 52. I went natural two yeas ago.
Load More Replies...That single silver strand that falls in your face after you've curled your bangs, that just will NOT behave. lol
Mine is white, not grey, which is uncommon for a natural blonde like myself. It is much wavier since going grey and menopause. I love that people have asked me where I get my hair colored!
Your hairstyle is a lot like mine. My daughter, years ago; told me to hold still...I thought there was something on my head. But she leaned in and plucked a hair out of my head, then she got all happy and excited. She was like "It's silver, just like Dad's...Yaayy!". Apparently, she's looking forward to going silver, but it will be a while because she's only 24. My Mom is only 66, and she didn't start going silver until about 3 years ago. I'm 49, and I've seen a couple, but I think it will be a long while before I go silver. But, I'm looking forward to it. I have never dyed or permed my hair. I have virgin hair, no chemicals EVER. And I plan to keep it that way. You have beautiful hair. And I look forward to going silver.
Natural Curly Hair
“'I do wonder why people hate their grey hair so much! I think grey hair is a gift from the moon. When the moon laughs, her eyes produce tears of joy that fall to earth and land on the tops of people's heads!' -C. Joybell C.”
Times are changing, more and more women will make the transition !!!
Streaks Of Silver
“It is the second time I do the « experience » of this transition. First time was 3 years ago in 2015. I let them grow but then decided to cut them very short, I didn’t find a real proper way to arrange them, neither a new style, then they grow again and I suddenly tied them with biological vegetal brown color, as I was feeling less sure about myself. And also because I like to follow my desires ;) even if I change my mind. But somehow I felt sad to have covered my « inner light » again and decided this year, after months working on myself (meditation, reading and applying lots of self-development books, drawing, taking time for me out of my last job), to let them grow naturally, not only the color but the natural movement of my hair. And it matches perfectly with my state of mind and mindfulness. I think it represents how every woman/human has beauty and light and freedom inside her. And I’m proud of being part of a movement that spread courage, healthy lifestyle and self-acceptance around the world. Others are helping me and I’d like to help others wearing that white (and grey) flag on their head and learn that patience really worths it. 😌☀️Time reveals treasure when you take it.”
Hers is coming in like mine has, essentially framing her face and behind it is darker hair. I like how it does that.
You are beautiful! So to transition means going through the pains, not to mention years of letting the colored hair go, and not redo the color?
Natural Gray Hair
No better way to wrap up a Monday than with the dreamiest curls and popping pink.
Beautiful, this is what I want back my thick curls instead of the straw I've created from blond streaks, thanks for the inspiration, that's it no more dying
Your hair is beautiful! I look at yours and I see my hair! Same curls...same color...thank you for sharing!
Silvery Hair
“It’s been 9 months since I last dyed my hair. A friend just saw me for the first time since my transition and told me that she could never do what I was doing because she was “too vain.” She meant it as a compliment but I didn’t say anything back. No longer dyeing my hair doesn’t mean I’ve given up on myself or that I don’t care about my appearance. It’s the exact opposite. It means I’ve embraced my authentic self - I love who I am and I don’t have any desire to pretend to be anyone else. I’m 43 years old. I’ve dyed my hair for over 20 years. when I look in the mirror now, I finally see me. I’ve never been happier.”
I had a friend tell me that she wouldn't do it until she was all grey. You're right, they mean well but often get it slightly wrong. I'm 41 and on my journey. You look amazing, it suits you 😊
I was recently in the grocery store and woman said to me: "WOW- you've done it- you've really embraced your gray hair, I could never do that!" I'm 55 now- and I stopped coloring it 5 years a go, and I am so glad I did!!!
So, no idea what made me click on this article about 50 women who aren't dyeing their hair. But I'm scrolling through thinking wow they all look amazing... and then I get to #36 and I teared up! You are so gorgeous and I miss you. I can even hear your laugh in my head 20 years later! Email me? xoxo
Embracing The Gray
“I've wrestled with grey hair my entire adult life. It was so much hassle keeping up with it, and I was also often embarrassed when I saw photos of myself with the grey roots peeking through! I finally decided to quit the dye summer 2017 and embrace my authentic self. It wasn't always easy at first, but the more it grows out the happier I am with it...one of the best decisions I could have made.”
This photo is beautiful. People would give much to have your unique looks. Beautiful
My dad was Cherokee, so I have some in me. You look like you have some, too. Such beautiful skin and hair!
Quite frankly, I am stunned by the beauty of this picture! Amazing and so fantastic! You are one good looking person that has graced this world! Thank you for sharing!
Short Gray Hair
“Most thought I was crazy for giving up the dye at 44...at times I thought I was...maybe I am! 🤷🏻♀️🤣 But if I could just let others “feel the freedom” that I have for just a few seconds...freedom to pull my hair back...freedom to have healthy, natural hair again....freedom from the time spent on having to dye it every 4 weeks...freedom in my own skin...freedom from what others think...then they’d know why!”
You look amazing! And right??? I spend an hour at the hairdresser now instead of 4!
how long did it take you to grow it out and was it hard not to want to dye it?
how long did it take you to grow out the color and was it hard not to color it?
Going Silver
“I don’t care what you think about me, I don’t think about you at all🖤”
They are all young! Big difference when you are old and your face shows it! They look great!
I had the exact same thought! And what about finding work? At 54, I’ve already feel the sting of ageism
Load More Replies...Or as the great Bette Davis said: "what other people think of me is none of my business".
Dark Gray Hair
“I decided to stop dying my hair as a celebration to the end of my cancer treatment at the age of 38. The grays started to show up as I have entered menopause. The slow changes at the beginning was annoying and I was self-conscious. A year in, the grays intensified and my confident grew stronger. I realized to accept the new me. I just turned 41 a week ago and I love my silver hair more than ever.”
You are so beautiful!! And a fighter!!! Thank you!!! Me too, now i will grow my hair out
With that gorgeous smile, you are like a diamond in a room full of cubic zirconia. 💞
Congratz on ending your treatment! You are gorgeous! Cannot believe you are 41!
Oh, I thought you were much younger, so pretty, embrace your beauty !!!
Beautiful White Strands
“One year ago I embarked on this journey: the journey towards natural hair. I had no idea what to expect, both in terms of outcome and of the journey itself. Some of my friends almost begged me to go back to colour, as apparently I was about to commit the unforgiveable crime of looking older.
.
I may look older now, but I have rarely been as happy with myself as a whole as during this transition so far. I have learnt to love me for who I am and just the way I am, and I owe it to my hair 😊 I often hear that it is only hair, but the truth is that there is more than just hair involved.
.
To those of you on the fence, give it a try. If you do not like it you can always go back to colouring your hair!
.
13 3/4 months into transition - 11 3/4 months post blending”
O...M...G... I would kill for your hair.. Haven't dyed mine in about 2 years. My natural color has gotten darker than it used to be, with a few "randomly occurring crystalline highlights". A single strand of silver here, another one there, no patches or streaks of silver beauty & I'm 62. I had hoped to have silver/white hair by now, but no, I have my mother's hair it seems (she's 82 with equal parts "salt-n-pepper". Her hair went darker before her silver started coming in more so, I'm HOPING for more silver soon). I had been dying my hair some shade of auburn/red since I was 18. There has always been a natural streak of light auburn at each temple, so the auburn was a 'natural' color choice, at the time. In my cupboard are 3 boxes of dye from medium auburn, to intense red, to burgundy. I have been so on the fence about dying my hair again, using all of those colors, but now, maybe not. I may add my own silver streaks with a couple of royal purple , for good measure.. :)
Salt And Pepper Hair
“I finally saw my hair in a certain light today where I actually see what people talk about it. It really is... dare I say.... kinda cool. It’s hard to see its real effect in the bathroom mirror and photos come out different in every lighting. Truth be told, I know it’s silver, and I know it’s “different” but not until today did I see what they see. Thank you strangers.... you’re right. It’s pretty cool. Sparkly, silver, and proud. 🖤✨”
Yes the difference in lighting is interesting, outdoors usually shows true color !!!
You are beautiful. I love the way it blends with your original hair color. You also look VERY young, mid-twenties maybe?
Natural Hair Color
“Changes.
Changes are normal.
The most normal in the world, but why are changes so difficult for us? Is it the fear of not being seen by society, or the fear of losing oneself? ‘You've changed so much ...’ A big insult these days that you jump right out. But should not we be proud of ourselves when we change (positively)? It is good to change, to see the world with new eyes and to be seen by the world with new eyes. Discover more and get to know each other from another side.”
There are ways to get past the 2 tone look. Instead of suffering through the long process, for the last time, you can go to a stylist, and have them foil in gray so you don’t have such long roots. When I went gray I did that myself, because I am a stylist. I died my brown hair that had been colored for years, gray. Then when I felt it was long enough I cut off all the dyed hair, and I was natural. It was that simple. Nobody had to notice that I was half gray, and half brown. I just went for it full blast. Best idea I’ve ever had.
Perfectly stated.. And really, why IS 'change' seen as something 'bad' or 'negative', especially when those changes are personal, like hair color, or clothing styles or life-style in general. If you're not hurting anyone with your choices, why are some people so critical? Keep doing YOU and let the nay-sayers fall to the side. :)
My hair isn't far of being the same as yours. I have often thought about growing my colour out but have always got it recoloured. But looking at all the ladies and seeing how beautiful they all are. I'm cancelling my appointment next week. If I feel as happy as you I won't ever dye my hair againxx
Pretty Gray Hair
“Crazy how much light can change the look of your hair. Whenever I step outside I see its true color. Embracing my transition!”
Beautiful White Strands
“I made it! I decided for my birthday and one year anniversary I would get a really major haircut to celebrate and get rid of some of my old colored ends. I love it! Ive had long hair for SO long...I didnt think I would look good with short hair. This hair journey of mine sure has pushed me to think and do things that I never would have before. I have a new sort of confidence. I’m so glad I decided to join you all last year!”
Short hair looks so much at home on her. She could even go shorter and look more pixie- or fairy-like.
Dark Gray Hair
Waves, braids, side-ponytails galore! There are so many cute ways to style your silver and the wonderful @young_and_gray29 wears them all so well.
WOW.. I am loving the lipstick color, it really makes your hair and eyes 'pop', in an amazingly beautiful way.. (I am so jealous :).
You look gorgeous. And that shade of lipstick gives you a wonderful pop with that outfit. Love it!
Natural Silver Hair
“Found my first silvery strands in my twenties, and have been dyeing for 20+ years. I opted to bleach out my ends and coax the gray in- and have dark roots instead of light, a dark background instead of a halo(also fabulous, btw). My stylist was such a brave chemist- but now slightly afraid of all the referrals she’s getting😂(This approach was not easy, of course, and I sacrificed many destroyed inches). But two years in, I find myself wishing for more gray! And now I wear red lipstick everyday! I’m truly never going back. Not letting myself go. Letting myself become❤️”
And you are becoming more and more beautiful every day. You are Gorgeous!! And I love the red lipstick.
I love what you say "not letting yourself go, letting yourself become." Your hair is beautiful.
Shades Of Silver
“I started getting grey hair in college. From 2001-2015 I dyed my hair dark brown in an attempt to hide my natural hair. I’m not sure the exact moment I decided I was finished with covering up the real me, but it was the best physical decision I’ve ever made. I was so afraid that it would make me look older, especially since my husband has such a baby face. I would argue that at age 35 I look the best I ever have, and if that’s not true... then at least my confidence is the best it’s ever been! I often get strangers asking me about it, or complimenting it. Even without the compliments, I feel very natural, very true to myself, and my hair is the healthiest it’s ever been.“
Growing Out Your Natural Hair
I got my first grey hair at 14. Despite being raised by my two silver crowned parents I quickly learned how to dye and have done so for ten years. I found that with each dye I gained not identity and assurance but anxiety and a feeling of misrepresentation. I found an odd reassurance in the fact that I NEEDED chemicals and dye to feel beautiful. At 24 I've decided to go #grombre. Join me on my journey of empowerment and acceptance as I look to build a community based on the natural privilege of silver beauty (at any age!) DM me to feature your own journey to platinum beauty.
well it is easy when every one of these women is gorgeous. some of us just look frumpy and old.
Best thing I ever did! Besides, hair dye absorbed by my scalp was so toxic that the lymph nodes at the base of my skull were becoming hard and sore and my hair was thinning and getting dry and breaking. Once my scalp was burned so bad that my head was oozing oils in an attempt to sooth the burns! Not worth getting cancer due to the chemicals. Spend a lot less money now as well! 23117111_1...46033f.jpg
I love it, what a great idea! I'll send you my own photo and story soon. It has felt a little lonely as so many of my friends (and my mum) discouraged me from going grey. So great to have a community of women who are embracing themselves as they are rather than what society tells us is beautiful.
Every single one is magnificent and changing a single thing about any of them would only diminish the world we live in. Kudo's to all.
Would like to see some older, heavier woman in these photos. Being older and heavier is stopping me from letting my hair go all white.
I'm 73 and had been perming my hair for years. Hadn't got much grey, but the perms damaged it. I recently had all the curls cut off, and am going natural (straight). Sorry I'm just an ordinary person, not beautiful like the others on this page. IMG_1086-5...b35904.jpg
I'm beyond inspired....this is exquisite. I may have just joined you all as a silver sister. First grey at 12, I'm now 41....and curious if I'd look half as lovely as all of these ladies.
I am 76yo and my plain brown hair won't go gray - I WANT gray hair! I HAVE EARNED GRAY HAIR!
I am inspired and promising to not dye my hair any longer. Also growing out my keratin treatment and embracing my naturally curly hair.
Embracing our natural selves has become a modern movement, whether it's letting one's gray hair grow or exploring unique hues in other aspects of life. Exploring freedom from societal expectations on beauty can be a liberating experience.
For those interested in how colors can become a vibrant expression of individuality, learn more about creative options for yarn colors that challenge traditional naming conventions by visiting unique color names.
My grandmother is old and grey. She has a face full of wrinkles, she is not pretty. But she has a heart of gold, and words of encouragement for anyone who meets her. Never has she cursed anyone in her life. Any guest who vist her is always hand-fed, never goes back with an empty stomach. To me she is the most beautiful woman on earth. And she wears her age well.
Load More Replies...I think they all look great, but some of these look much too perfect and symmetrical to be completely natural. In fact, a couple look like straight-up gray dye or highlight jobs.
My greying hair also looks like unnatural - just one thick line at the centre which completely disappears if I part my hair on a side. Many people grey like that especially at the early stage of greying
Load More Replies...Grey hair here. I'm 45. I cant count the times I heard "you have to dye your hair, the grey is showing!" or random people telling me i had to cut if off instead of growing it out. So yeah, it does take some balls to let it grow out. You have to endure a never ending stream of "advice" from strangers. On the other hand, once the dye is gone, there was a never ending stream of compliments. Worth it!
These ladies are beautiful but I was hoping the article was about actual aging women embracing the process. Premature graying on someone with skin in their 20s and 30s is very different than someone in their 50s and 60s. And when you aren't truly aging yet, it's easier to "rock" the look with confidence when you dont have the psychological nuances of someone who is actually aging. I do love being around ladies who own where they're at in life.
I def agree! Add to that most of them have fine textured hair. Not a wirey tumbleweed in the bunch!
Load More Replies...Yawn. These are all relatively young women with PRETTY grey hair, not the nappy and wirey hair most older women end up with.
They are not all so young. Hi, I'm 48, almost 49. I embrace the gray, wiry and all. Hair is a state of mind and heart and WORK. It doesn't really matter the color or texture, what matters is what you're willing and ACTUALLY doing to take the time and effort to make it look better, GRAY or not. BTW, I'm #1 on this list, and it takes work. Just because we go gray, it doesn't we stop grooming.
Load More Replies...My hair grew white from the roots when I was caring for my 91 y/o mom-I think it was an emo-grow! I went with it and won't go back. Can I submit a photo?
I am tired of dying my hair don't care anymore I'm going to let my hair turn white I think it looks pretty good so it shows my age who cares you don't like it don't look at it but it's me
Maybe I'm in a very small minority, but even since my teens, I've always thought that a full head of grey hair looks great on both men and women! I was happy to hear about the new trend of girls dying their hair grey, and I hope that this letting all of the natural grey out becomes a more common trend, too! Besides being a silver fox, what is most attractive is the confident smile of a woman who feels free and happy in her true colours.
For the last 20 yrs or so, I've learned to love me for me. no makeup, no hair dye. i prefer the natural look (good or bad, lol) and it's made my life so much simpler! of course, i had to learn to be comfortable in my own skin. simple jeans & t-shirt kind of gal, but i've been told i 'clean up well.' i have had a few gray hairs but not sure how long--they're all in the back where i can't see! my sister, on the other hand, confident & fun-loving as she is, HATES her gray. got her first ones at 16 & though younger than me, would be totally gray if she didn't dye it. i think she looks great either way, but wish she was ok with growing old gracefully.
With my greying hair (since I was in my late teens) I colored up until 7 years ago. I’ve always barely wore any makeup, not like these “girls” do nowadays... with 50 layers and 3 hrs in putting on makeup to go out and take selfies every 10 min. I now just take 5-10 minutes to put on light eyeliner, mascara and a little eyeshadow on my lower eyeline to bring a little color and “BAM” I’m done. I’ve stopped coloring my hair to cover the grey (I’ve saved over $5000) and feel way better with my salt & pepper hair color NOW. 👩🏻🦳💋
Load More Replies...My grandmother is old and grey. She has a face full of wrinkles, she is not pretty. But she has a heart of gold, and words of encouragement for anyone who meets her. Never has she cursed anyone in her life. Any guest who vist her is always hand-fed, never goes back with an empty stomach. To me she is the most beautiful woman on earth. And she wears her age well.
Load More Replies...I think they all look great, but some of these look much too perfect and symmetrical to be completely natural. In fact, a couple look like straight-up gray dye or highlight jobs.
My greying hair also looks like unnatural - just one thick line at the centre which completely disappears if I part my hair on a side. Many people grey like that especially at the early stage of greying
Load More Replies...Grey hair here. I'm 45. I cant count the times I heard "you have to dye your hair, the grey is showing!" or random people telling me i had to cut if off instead of growing it out. So yeah, it does take some balls to let it grow out. You have to endure a never ending stream of "advice" from strangers. On the other hand, once the dye is gone, there was a never ending stream of compliments. Worth it!
These ladies are beautiful but I was hoping the article was about actual aging women embracing the process. Premature graying on someone with skin in their 20s and 30s is very different than someone in their 50s and 60s. And when you aren't truly aging yet, it's easier to "rock" the look with confidence when you dont have the psychological nuances of someone who is actually aging. I do love being around ladies who own where they're at in life.
I def agree! Add to that most of them have fine textured hair. Not a wirey tumbleweed in the bunch!
Load More Replies...Yawn. These are all relatively young women with PRETTY grey hair, not the nappy and wirey hair most older women end up with.
They are not all so young. Hi, I'm 48, almost 49. I embrace the gray, wiry and all. Hair is a state of mind and heart and WORK. It doesn't really matter the color or texture, what matters is what you're willing and ACTUALLY doing to take the time and effort to make it look better, GRAY or not. BTW, I'm #1 on this list, and it takes work. Just because we go gray, it doesn't we stop grooming.
Load More Replies...My hair grew white from the roots when I was caring for my 91 y/o mom-I think it was an emo-grow! I went with it and won't go back. Can I submit a photo?
I am tired of dying my hair don't care anymore I'm going to let my hair turn white I think it looks pretty good so it shows my age who cares you don't like it don't look at it but it's me
Maybe I'm in a very small minority, but even since my teens, I've always thought that a full head of grey hair looks great on both men and women! I was happy to hear about the new trend of girls dying their hair grey, and I hope that this letting all of the natural grey out becomes a more common trend, too! Besides being a silver fox, what is most attractive is the confident smile of a woman who feels free and happy in her true colours.
For the last 20 yrs or so, I've learned to love me for me. no makeup, no hair dye. i prefer the natural look (good or bad, lol) and it's made my life so much simpler! of course, i had to learn to be comfortable in my own skin. simple jeans & t-shirt kind of gal, but i've been told i 'clean up well.' i have had a few gray hairs but not sure how long--they're all in the back where i can't see! my sister, on the other hand, confident & fun-loving as she is, HATES her gray. got her first ones at 16 & though younger than me, would be totally gray if she didn't dye it. i think she looks great either way, but wish she was ok with growing old gracefully.
With my greying hair (since I was in my late teens) I colored up until 7 years ago. I’ve always barely wore any makeup, not like these “girls” do nowadays... with 50 layers and 3 hrs in putting on makeup to go out and take selfies every 10 min. I now just take 5-10 minutes to put on light eyeliner, mascara and a little eyeshadow on my lower eyeline to bring a little color and “BAM” I’m done. I’ve stopped coloring my hair to cover the grey (I’ve saved over $5000) and feel way better with my salt & pepper hair color NOW. 👩🏻🦳💋
Load More Replies...
