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Gray hair that’s turning yellow can result from various factors such as medication, sun exposure, and even the hair care products you use.
This is because the lack of pigment in gray hair makes it prone to stains and discoloration from all the hair products and environmental debris. (1) Also, the porous nature of gray hair makes it easier to suffer from product buildup, leading to brassy and yellow tones.
Combatting this issue involves using natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar, which is known for its clarifying properties.
Continue reading to learn how apple cider vinegar removes yellow from gray hair and what makes it a quick yet effective remedy for gray hair discoloration.
Why Should You Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Remove Yellow from Gray Hair?
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that effectively prevents yellowing in gray hair by balancing the pH of both the hair and scalp.
Research reveals that the pH level of the environment and hair products impact hair proteins. Surprisingly, an acidic pH of 5 proves beneficial for hair health as it works by maintaining protein structure and strength.
This finding suggests treatments with acidic substances, such as vinegar, could counteract the yellow tint in hair, a remedy embraced by many experts.
Known for its clarifying and cleansing properties, apple cider vinegar is a popular choice in hair care. In fact, Palestinian women have historically used vinegar to enhance hair color. (2)(3)
Why Does Gray Hair Turn Yellow?
Yellowing of the hair is a common and unwelcome issue, especially for those with white or gray hair. This is simply due to the lack of melanin, the pigment responsible for color, in gray hair.
The low amount of melanin makes the yellowing linked to photodegradation processes much easier and more pronounced.
Photodegradation is the process that occurs when your hair is exposed to sunlight. The sun’s powerful rays can cause hair damage at a molecular level. This process involves the breaking down of hair proteins, leading to structural changes and yellowing.
Gray hair has less melanin. So, without as much protection from melanin, gray hair is more susceptible to the sun’s yellowing effects. (1)
Other than this, other factors such as medications can also contribute to the yellowing of gray hair. One research article revealed that a patient experienced hair yellowing as a result of topical minoxidil treatment. (4)
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Remove Yellow from Gray Hair?
To use apple cider vinegar to remove yellow from gray hair, follow these steps:
- Dilute 1 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water.
- Shampoo as usual to remove dirt.
- Apply the diluted ACV, massaging the scalp and hair.
- Leave it on for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse it off thoroughly with water.
What Are Some Other Remedies to Remove Yellow from Gray Hair?
If you do not wish to use apple cider vinegar for whatever reason to remove yellow from gray hair, it is not an issue. There are other remedies you can try!
Henna, a centuries-old natural dye, not only imparts a pleasing reddish-brown hue to gray hair but also conditions and strengthens the hair. Therefore, you can use henna to hide the yellowing of gray hair by dyeing it.
Also, to neutralize the yellow tint, blue or purple herbal pigments are recommended by many experts.
Instead of using chemical colors, use natural pigments such as blue tansy oil (derived from Tanacetum annuum) and chamomile, especially Hungarian chamomile. They can be used to counteract yellow tones quite effectively.
Similarly, butterfly pea, with its vibrant blue hue, is another effective option. (5)(6)
Most-Asked Questions
What hair products should I avoid for gray hair?
Avoid products that contain harsh sulfates as they can strip the natural color of the hair and contribute to yellowing.
How often should I wash my gray hair?
Washing frequency depends on hair type, but using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and not overwashing can help maintain hair color.
Final Word
Gray hair turning yellow is a common issue due to factors such as sun exposure and hair products.
Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy known for its clarifying and pH-balancing properties that prevent yellowing. Try it out and enjoy your gray hair look.
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