How To Cover Your Gray Hair At Home

Save time and $$ with pro-quality color & expert tips
We're demystifying the process, helping you find the right color & formula and showing you everything you need to get salon-quality results.



4 Home Hair Color Myths, Debunked

Ready to Dye? Let's Go!
Step 1:
Choose a Shade & Formula
The easiest, most natural-looking option is to go with your natural color or darker. If you want to go lighter, we recommend no more than a shade or two brighter.
Textured Hair
Both semi and demi permanent color are great options for textured hair since they won't alter hair significantly enough to disturb a curl pattern. If you're after longer-lasting coverage, seek permanent hair color designed specifically for textured hair to help keep it protected.
What's the Diff Between Permanent, Demi & Semi-Permanent Color
Step 2:
Pick a Developer
Think of developer as the fizz to your soda: It gives it power. Mixed with your hair color, it activates it to help it penetrate the hair shaft to lighten or add color. Note: You will NOT need a developer for semi-permanent color.
What is a Hair Developer & How Does it Work
Step 3:
Grab the Essentials
If you're mixing up color yourself, you'll need gloves, a mixing bowl, an application brush and sectioning clips. If you're using a kit, it will have everything you need, but you might find the clips and a brush for blending helpful.
Step 4:
Apply
How to Color Your Hair at Home Step-by-Step

Upgrade Your Box Color

Want an even easier option? Pro-quality hair color kits are your one-stop-shop with everything you need to mix & apply your perfect shade.
How to Cover Up Gray Roots at Home

Temporary Root Fix


If you have a sprinkling of gray (think your roots or face-framing pieces), you might consider root spray or root powder. Both options provide temporary coverage until they're washed out.

Learn More About Coloring Your Hair At Home
Color Theory Basics w/ Gregory Patterson
Textured Hair Color DIY Tutorial
How to Apply Demi & Semi-Permanent Color

Shop Your Best Color

Best for Shine
A high gloss finish hydrates hair & leaves it feeling softer, stronger & smoother.
Shop ion® Color Brilliance Permanent Gloss Hair Color

Best Budget Option
Healthy-looking, shiny hair at an affordable price point.
*Compare to Redken Shades EQ
Shop GVP Demi-Permanent Gloss Liquid Hair Color

Best for Stubborn Gray
Pure micro pigments deliver deeper, more intense color deposit.
Shop ion® Color Brilliance Permanent Crème Hair Color

Best for Dark Hair
Lifts 3-4 levels without having to pre-lighten hair.
Shop ion® Color Brilliance True Tones for Dark Hair

Best Conditioning Color
A naturally-derived polymer helps smooth hair after damage from chemical treatments.
Shop ion® Inspired by Nature Permantent Crème Hair Color


Shop After-Color Care
Make your color last longer & keep it looking fresh