How Much Can My Hair Really Take?

Natalie Varrasso
Aug 5
3 min read

*"My purpose is simple — to help you love your hair and feel confident in your own style"*

If you've ever sat in the chair after yet another failed attempt to achieve that dreamy grey blend—wondering, "How much more can my hair take?"—you’re not alone. It’s a disheartening place to be, especially after being promised beautiful results that just… didn’t happen.

My hope is that this blog gives you the clarity and knowledge you need to move forward, feel empowered, and find the right stylist to support you in this delicate, but absolutely achievable, journey.

The Magic Number: How Many Times Can Hair Be Lightened?

Let’s cut to the chase:1 to 2 rounds of lightening.That’s the average limit your hair can withstand before it starts to say “No more, thanks!”

If you’ve already been through one or two rounds of lightening and still don’t see a successful blend, the harsh truth is… you may now have to grow out what’s left with some yellowy or brassy tones in the mix.

So Why Is It So Important to Ask the Right Questions?

Because not all colourists are trained in the art of grey hair transitions.

There’s a big difference between:

Removing or lightening old colour,

vs.

Skillfully blending your grey to create a seamless, natural-looking transition without harsh lines or visible regrowth.

In fact, lightening your hair—especially dark hair—without the proper blending techniques can actually create another regrowth line in a different colour, rather than giving you the effortless grow-out you were hoping for.

Here’s the Truth About Hair and Grey Transitions

Your hair is a fibre. It’s living, and it has limits.

A grey hair transition is one of the most aggressive services you can put your hair through—especially because it involves lightening. While the average head of hair can tolerate 1 to 2 bleach sessions with the right preparation, that’s it. And if you’ve already handed your hair over to someone who “gave it a go” without the right plan or training, you may have unknowingly maxed out your chances.

And this is the part I hate most…When a hopeful guest arrives for their long-awaited consultation, only for me to gently explain that due to previous over-processing, I can’t safely apply another round of bleach without risking breakage. It’s never easy delivering that news.

This Could All Be Avoided…

…with a few intentional questions before you say yes to a colour appointment.

If you’re unsure what to ask, don’t worry—I’ve written a full blog dedicated to the key questions you should be asking your stylist before you commit to a grey hair transition. It’s been one of my most-read articles to date, and I truly believe it will help give you more confidence and clarity when choosing who to trust with your hair.

You can find that blog here, and I encourage you to read it before your next appointment.

Final Thought

Please know—your hair is precious. You deserve results that honour both your vision and the health of your hair. With the right stylist, the right questions, and the right process, a grey hair transition can be one of the most freeing experiences you’ll ever have.

But like anything worth doing—it starts with the right foundation.

By Natalie Varrasso Retreat Hair

One Last Thing…

If you're reading this and thinking, “I wish my hairdresser knew this,” you’re not alone.

More and more stylists across Australia (and beyond) are now seeking education to confidently specialise in grey hair transitions — because it’s not something most were ever trained in.

So many of the women I meet share just how much they adore their current stylist, and how torn they feel — almost like they’re betraying them — by reaching out to someone else for their grey hair transition. If that sounds like you, please know there’s another way.

*"Training that cares and supports my learners as thoughtfully as I nurture my own salon guests."*

If your beautiful stylist is someone who’s open-minded, passionate, and eager to grow, feel free to lovingly point them in the direction of my GHT Education. It’s a professional training program designed to empower hairdressers with the techniques and understanding needed to create grey transitions that are customised, gentle, and genuinely stunning.

It’s exclusive, practical, and already helping stylists deliver a level of care and confidence their guests deeply appreciate.

You can gently let them know they can find me on Instagram or reach out via email — I’m here to share the love and the skills behind this life-changing service.