5 Going Gray Don'ts

Overview

Summary of Lisa (This Organic Girl) on five things NOT to do when going gray — practical tips, mindset advice, and product guidance.

Key takeaways (Don’ts and practical notes)

Don’t use the wrong toner shampoo

• Use purple shampoo to neutralize yellow/brassy tones — purple cancels yellow.

  Purple cancels yellow.

• Avoid blue shampoos — blue + yellow can leave a green tinge.

• Only use purple shampoo if you actually see yellow/brassiness; if your gray is already bright/white you don’t need it.
• Common causes of yellowing: pollution, UV exposure, product buildup, medications, etc.

Don’t force the transition before you’re ready

• Wait until you feel fully committed — uncertainty can make the process harder.
• Some people find doing one “last dye” gives closure and helps clarify the decision.

Don’t go it alone

• Seek support from friends, family, and online communities — compliments and encouragement help maintain momentum.
• Lisa recommends her Facebook community for support.

Don’t limit your options

• Many transition styles work; there’s no single “right” way. Options include:
  • Cold-turkey grow out
  • Shaving the head
  • Short pixie
  • Highlights or lowlights
  • Ombré or partial color
  • Toners
  • Returning to dyeing later
• Try what makes you feel good — experimentation is okay.

Don’t listen to naysayers

• Ignore people who discourage you (e.g., “you’ll look old”).
• Follow and compare people who have gone through the transition — many look softer and more confident afterward.

Practical extras

• Hairdresser advice: sometimes “ride it out” is the best approach.

  Sometimes the best move is to ride it out.

• Community size note: Lisa’s Facebook group, The Gray Book, has thousands of members; community feedback (even from strangers in places like Whole Foods) can be uplifting.

Notable speaker, groups, and products

• Speaker: Lisa (This Organic Girl)
• Recommended product: purple shampoo (use when yellowing is present); avoid blue shampoo if yellowing is present
• Community: Facebook group “The Gray Book”
• Mentioned location: Whole Foods (as an example of receiving supportive comments)