Why won’t hair dye cover my grey?

Nearly every grey strand you’ve ever tried to cover seems to fight back. Keyra Colors even guarantees 100% coverage with its permanent cream tint (KeyraColors), so you know full grey coverage is possible. The secret to seamless results is picking the right shade, choosing a high-pigment formula, and prepping your hair for even uptake.

Understand grey dye resistance

As hair ages, it loses melanin—the pigment that gives it color—and its cuticle can become smoother. That makes it tougher for dye molecules to latch on. You might spot patchy or brassy bits if your grey strands repel the pigment. Knowing why grey resists color helps you choose a stronger formula and adjust your technique.

Pick the right shade

Matching depth matters more than you think. If your natural base is a level 6 (dark blonde), a level 6 or 7 will blend best. Going more than two levels darker can look flat, while going lighter risks uneven tones.

• Consider warm versus cool undertones (warm shades can mask yellowing greys).
• If you’re exploring mature-friendly hues, see what hair color looks best on an older woman? (/what-hair-color-looks-best-on-an-older-woman)
• For a deeper dive into the top coverage shades, check what color is best to cover grey hair? (/what-color-is-best-to-cover-grey-hair)

Compare formula types

Not all dyes deliver the same pigment punch or care level. Here’s how the main options stack up:

A 2023 brand claim notes that demipermanent dyes last longer than semi-permanent ones because they harness color precursors, oxidants, and alkalis for deeper deposit (Salerm).

Prep your hair properly

Even the best tint can slip on unprepared strands. Follow these steps before you color:

• Assess porosity with a strand test (higher porosity absorbs more quickly).
• Clarify with a gentle shampoo to remove oils or product buildup.
• Apply a protein-treatment mask if your hair feels overly soft or elastic (it helps strength and even uptake).
• Do a patch test on a small section to confirm timing and tone.

Maintain coverage at home

Once you achieve rich, even color, keep it that way:

• Shampoo with a sulfate-free formula and rinse in cool water to lock in pigment.
• Use a color-safe conditioner or mask weekly for shine and moisture.
• Touch up roots every 4–6 weeks—this schedule keeps greys from popping through.
• For stubborn fading, explore our hair color fading solutions (/hair-color-fading-solutions).

Quick recap and next steps

• Understand why greys resist dye.
• Match your shade within two levels of your base.
• Compare permanent, demi-, and ammonia-free tints.
• Prep with a clarifying wash and protein mask.
• Maintain with gentle care and regular touch-ups.

Choose one tweak today, and watch your greys blend away more smoothly. You’ve got this.

Frequently asked questions-Why won’t hair dye cover my grey?

1. Can demi-permanent dyes fully cover grey hair?
Demi-permanent formulas deposit pigment without lifting your natural color. They typically cover about 70–80% of greys. For 100% coverage, a permanent cream dye is more reliable.

2. How often should I touch up grey roots?
Plan on root retouches every 4–6 weeks. That interval keeps new greys from showing and maintains an even look.

3. Do ammonia-free dyes really work on grey hair?
Yes, many ammonia-free permanents deliver 90–100% coverage, with less odor and scalp irritation. They often use alternative alkalis to open the cuticle gently.

4. Should I choose a shade lighter or darker than my natural color?
Aim within one level of your base. Going too dark can look flat, while going too light may create patchiness around greys.

5. What’s the best way to correct uneven grey coverage?
If you see spots or brassy bits, check our guide on how to correct hair color (/how-to-correct-hair-color) for step-by-step fixes.

Available at Camila’s Beauty Supply: professional-grade tints like Salermvision, Alfaparf Yellow Professional, Salerm Zero, and KeyraColors for flawless grey coverage (Camila’s Beauty Supply).