Can You Tell When an Older Person Dyes Their Hair?
Warning: The following content is being updated due to recent life changes. On March 25, 2020, my hairdresser, a single parent living on the edge, had to cancel all appointments this week, and the shop she rents space from is shuttered. As a result, my roots are about half an inch long and my short, spiky haircut no longer spikes; it lays flat.
Originally, on March 11, 2020, I provided some insights into the natural aging process and my personal experience. Here is my original post, which reflects the reality of growing older and dealing with natural hair color changes.
Understanding Aging and Hair Color Changes
It is common for older people to have hair that appears a different color than their natural hair color, especially if they had gray or white hair. The decision to dye one's hair can be influenced by a variety of personal and social factors. Here are some signs that might indicate hair dyeing:
Color Consistency
One of the most noticeable signs is a significant difference in hair color from their natural color. If an older person has naturally gray or white hair, and their hair color has changed drastically, it could suggest that they have dyed it. For instance, vibrant red hair on an older person is an unusual sight, as very few 'older people' still have blond, red, or brown hair.
Visible Roots
Another sign is the presence of noticeable roots, especially if the roots are a different color, such as gray or white. This can be a clear indication that the hair has been dyed recently.
Sheen and Texture
Dyed hair often has a different sheen or texture compared to natural hair. This can be more noticeable if the hair has been recently colored. This difference can be subtle but is definitely noticeable over time.
Individual Aging Changes
As people age, their hair texture and color can change naturally. For example, my entire life, I had vibrant red hair, but now, my hair is graying in a patchy manner, with bits of brown, red, and gray, much like a calico cat. This change is consistent with the natural aging process rather than the result of hair dyeing.
Maintenance
Regular visits to a salon or frequent at-home dyeing are also a sign of active hair color maintenance. However, it is important to note that these signs are not definitive. Many factors can influence hair color, and personal style choices can vary widely.
Personal Experience
A few days after I wrote the post above, my hairdresser had to cancel all appointments. My hair now has noticeable roots, and my short, spiky haircut no longer spikes. Due to self-isolation, I am planning to stay home for the next several weeks, and I don't want to risk exposure to others. My hair and lack of product styling are a result of this situation. If all that happens is I grow gray hair, I can deal with that.
Many of my peers are suddenly realizing that growing out gray hair is inevitable, regardless of our desires to maintain a youthful appearance. While some might try to dye their hair, the more natural and realistic approach is to embrace the changes that come with aging.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while there are signs that can indicate whether an older person has dyed their hair, it is important to consider the natural aging process and individual style choices. Growing old is a natural process that affects us all, regardless of our hair color.