Amazing Grays

Help for Aging Skin

Aging takes its toll on the dermis (the deepest
layer of skin) as the number of fibroblasts, its principle
constituent cell, declines. In addition, molecules of collagen, the
connective protein that forms the skin’s supportive structure,
become stiffer.

Sun exposure also speeds up the aging of
skin--compare the skin on the back of your hand to the skin on your
buttocks or breasts to see the effects of sun damage. As a result
of exposure to the sun, the skin loses the resilience of youth,
eventually taking on the appearance of tissue paper.

Dry Skin

Dry Skin

Hair

Young cells rise to the surface as they age, die, and are sloughed off by friction. That friction stimulates the growth of new cells and causes the epidermis to thicken, which is why skin is generally thicker on the bottoms of your feet and the palms of your hands. It is also why a callus -- rough, thickened skin on any part of the body -- forms on areas that are rubbed excessively. The skin you see on your body today may look familiar, but it has been completely renewed over the course of a month.

Cross Section of Skin and Hair

Skin

Your skin consists of several different types of tissue that perform a variety of essential functions for your body. Skin helps regulate your body temperature by sweating in response to heat and decreasing blood flow to the skin in response to cold (thereby keeping the heat deeper inside the body).

Hair

There may be causes to dye for, but gray hair isn't one of them.

Stylists and fashion consultants agree that natural changes in
coloration--from salt-and-pepper blends to solid silver--lend
themselves to striking, sexy looks. It's important to remember,
however, that changes in wardrobe and make-up may be necessary in order
for newly gray women to look their best.

Clothing and Accessory Tips

Clothing

Make-Up Tips

To complement gray hair, you'll probably have to adjust your make-up and clothes.

According to makeup artist Bobbi Brown, "skin tone changes with age. Women often find their skin looks pale and uneven. The best thing to use is a good, medium coverage foundation, which will even out the skin."

"Women with gray hair should have a pop of soft color on cheeks and lips. They should stick to soft colors that won't wash them out but also won't be quite as harsh as some of the brighter colors we often see on older women," adds Brown.

Hair Dyes

Not ready to go gray just yet? Consultants at the Clairol hotline (1-800-223-5800) suggest that callers select dyes that are one shade lighter than their natural color. For partial coverage, try temporary colors. Try these permanent dyes, which conceal more gray.

Clairol Revitalique, $7.99-$8.99

L'Oreal Excellence Crème, $8.29

L'Oreal Superior Preference, $9.49