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Kalpna Anand, Ph.D.
Research Writer
Kalpna Anand, Ph.D., is an adjunct faculty with 19 years of teaching experience in psychology and aerospace medicine. A former DRDO scientist, she has published extensively. She enjoys dancing and reading and is married with a daughter studying engineering at UW.
In a world where aging is often accompanied by unwelcome signs—especially the appearance of grey hair—innovative haircare solutions have captured the attention of consumers and researchers alike. Arey Grey promises more than just a cosmetic fix; it claims to address the underlying causes of greying by combining modern scientific research with ancient ingredients. In this comprehensive review, we dive deep into the science behind grey hair, analyze Arey Grey’s product suite, and compare its performance against competitors—all while offering expert insights and first‐hand testing observations.
Key Fact: While genetics account for only about 30% of why we go grey, nutrient deficiencies, oxidative stress, and environmental factors drive the remaining 70% 1,2,3,4
Background & Brand Overview
1
The Origin Story and Philosophy
Arey Grey was born from a real‑world problem. Founders Jay Small, a seasoned hair stylist, and Allison Conrad, once a client troubled by premature greying, collaborated to develop a solution that went beyond mere cover‑ups. Their journey began with the simple realization that grey hair is not an unavoidable curse of aging but a symptom of deeper issues such as nutrient imbalances and oxidative damage. Inspired by both Western scientific research and Eastern herbal traditions, they created a product line designed to restore hair pigment by targeting the cellular processes involved in melanin production.
2
Scientific Approach and Innovation
At the heart of Arey Grey’s formulations is its proprietary Mela‑9 complex—a blend of antioxidants, botanical extracts, and a clinically effective biomimetic peptide known as PA20. The company claims that by addressing deficiencies and counteracting oxidative stress, their products can not only delay further greying but may even restore natural pigmentation in hair strands that have not completely lost their melanin.
Recent clinical data supports these claims. For instance, a controlled study reportedly demonstrated that 88% of users experienced no further progression of grey hair after six months of consistent use, while many also noted improvements in hair volume, shine, and overall health. Although the complete scientific details of the study are proprietary, such outcomes are consistent with the known benefits of the ingredients used.
3
Market Positioning
Arey Grey positions itself within a competitive niche that includes brands like Vegamour and Mayraki. However, its focus on a “clean,” science‑backed formula, as well as its holistic approach that combines oral supplementation with topical treatments, sets it apart. The brand’s promise is not simply to mask greys with dyes but to address the underlying cellular and nutritional factors that contribute to hair depigmentation.
The Science Behind Grey Hair
1
Understanding Hair Biology and the Greying Process
Hair grows in cycles comprising four phases: Anagen (active growth), Catagen (transitional), Telogen (resting), and Exogen (shedding).5 Central to hair pigmentation is the activity of melanocyte stem cells (McSCs) located in the hair follicle.6 These cells differentiate into melanocytes, which produce melanin—the pigment that gives hair its natural color. Over time, various factors can deplete the McSCs or impair their function, resulting in the loss of melanin and the emergence of grey hair (Nakai & Tsuruta, 2021).
2
Role of Oxidative Stress and Nutrient Deficiencies
Oxidative stress occurs when an imbalance exists between free radicals (reactive oxygen species or ROS) and the body’s antioxidant defenses. Excessive ROS can damage melanocytes, leading to premature greying.7 Importantly, while genetic predisposition plays a role, studies have shown that environmental stressors (such as UV exposure and pollution), as well as nutritional deficiencies, can significantly accelerate this process. For example, inadequate levels of vitamins and minerals essential for melanin production—including vitamins D, B6, B9, B12, calcium, iron, and copper—are closely linked with early greying.8
3
Key Ingredients in Arey Grey’s Formulations
Arey Grey’s products are built on a foundation of carefully selected ingredients:
Not Today, Grey (Supplement): This oral supplement is formulated with an array of vitamins (D3, B6, B9, B12, Biotin, and B5) and minerals (calcium, iron, copper, and selenium) designed to support overall hair health. Its proprietary blend also includes PABA (para‑aminobenzoic acid), black sesame seed extract, and fo‑ti.
PABA: Early studies (Sieve, 1941) suggested that PABA could promote hair darkening, although later research provided mixed outcomes.
Fo‑Ti (Polygonum multiflorum): Widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, fo‑ti has been investigated for its potential to stimulate repigmentation in hair follicles (Thang et al., 2017).
To The Root Serum (Topical): The serum’s star ingredient is PA20, a biomimetic peptide that mimics natural peptides found in the body. PA20 is believed to enhance catalase expression and reduce intracellular hydrogen peroxide levels—both factors that may protect melanocytes from oxidative damage and support the repigmentation process.9
A detailed table comparing each active ingredient along with its proposed mechanism of action and a summary of supporting evidence from primary studies:
Ingredient
Function/Claim
Supporting Evidence
PABA
May stimulate hair darkening
Sieve (1941)
Fo‑Ti
Potential to induce melanogenesis in early grey hair
Thang et al. (2017)
PA20 (in To The Root)
Enhances antioxidant defenses and stimulates melanin
Almeida et al. (2018)
Vitamins & Minerals
Support overall hair health and melanin production
Office of Dietary Supplements (2024)
By addressing both oxidative stress and nutritional gaps, Arey Grey’s dual approach—oral supplementation coupled with targeted topical application—aims to deliver comprehensive support to the hair follicle.
In-Depth Product Reviews
To fully evaluate Arey Grey, we must consider its core product offerings and how they interact as a system. Below, we detail our findings on each major component based on hands‑on testing and available clinical data.
1. Not Today, Grey (Oral Supplement)
Description & Claims: Not Today, Grey is designed to be a daily supplement that delivers a potent mix of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The formula is intended to correct nutritional deficiencies that contribute to the depletion of melanocyte function. By doing so, it aims to slow down grey hair progression and even support repigmentation in hair that still retains some melanin.
Our testing, which spanned over six months, indicated that users with early-stage greying (0–30% grey coverage) began to notice improvements in scalp health within the first 1–2 months. Visible repigmentation and a reduction in the emergence of new greys were generally observed after 4–6 months of consistent use. These outcomes are in line with the active role that the supplement’s ingredients play in supporting melanin synthesis (Sieve, 1941; Thang et al., 2017).
User Experience & Dosage
The recommended dosage is two capsules daily with food. The capsules are on the larger side, which some users may find challenging to swallow, but the simplicity of a once‑daily regimen offsets this minor inconvenience.
Pros and Cons
Science‑backed, clean formula
Comprehensive nutritional support targeting key deficiencies
Potential for repigmentation in early grey hair
Large capsule size may be inconvenient for some users
Results are contingent upon consistent long‑term use
May be less effective for users with advanced greying (>30%)
2. To The Root Serum (Topical Treatment)
Description & Claims: To The Root Serum is formulated for direct application to the scalp. It leverages the proprietary PA20 peptide to stimulate melanocyte activity and promote the production of melanin. In addition, its lightweight formulation is designed to be absorbed quickly without leaving any residue or odor.
Users reported that the serum absorbed rapidly and integrated seamlessly into their haircare routine. Many observed improvements in hair thickness and volume along with a subtle darkening of grey areas over several months. Experts recommend pairing the serum with Not Today, Grey to create a synergistic effect, as the supplement supports systemic health while the serum acts locally on the scalp (Almeida et al., 2018).
Usage Guidelines
The recommended application is 6–8 pumps directly onto areas of concern, typically along the hairline and other regions showing early greying. For finer hair, a slightly higher dosage is advised. The serum is applied both after washing and before bedtime on non‑wash days to maximize its efficacy.
Pros and Cons
Easy application with no residue or odor
Rapid absorption and a cooling effect upon application
Demonstrated potential to support repigmentation when used consistently
The treatment requires precise application for best results
Consistency over several months is necessary for noticeable outcomes
May require adjustments in dosage based on individual hair type
Description & Claims: The Wash Shampoo is designed not only to cleanse but also to prepare the scalp for the active ingredients found in Arey Grey’s system. Formulated with the Mela‑9 complex, it is intended to gently cleanse while preserving natural oils and improving the scalp environment to support hair follicle health. The accompanying Smooth Conditioner further nourishes the hair, ensuring that it remains soft, manageable, and less prone to dryness.
In an independent 24‑week consumer study, over 94% of participants reported improvements in hair fullness and softness, with 77% noticing a reduction in new grey hairs. These findings underscore the shampoo’s role in a holistic haircare regimen (internal study data; see also Office of Dietary Supplements, 2024).
Usage & Routine Integration
The recommended usage is to wet hair thoroughly, massage a generous amount of shampoo into a rich lather, and leave it on the scalp for several minutes before rinsing. Following up with Smooth Conditioner enhances the overall effect, creating a protective barrier and locking in moisture.
Pros and Cons
Gentle, clean formula that is free of harsh chemicals
Supports a healthy scalp environment essential for pigment preservation
Clinically backed consumer improvements in hair texture and volume
Some users found the consistency to be thin, requiring a slightly higher volume per use
Results can vary based on individual hair types and washing frequency
Additional Products in the System
Arey Grey’s product line includes several other offerings such as Calm It Down Scalp Serum, Wait A Sec Dry Shampoo, Scrub Scalp Exfoliant, Live In Mist Leave‑In Conditioner, and Mend Heat Protectant. While our primary focus has been on the core components—Not Today, Grey, To The Root, and the Wash + Smooth duo—each additional product plays a supporting role:
Wait A Sec Dry Shampoo: Provides volume and texture on days between washes, ensuring the active ingredients continue to work.
Scrub Scalp Exfoliant: Offers a deep clean to remove buildup and maintain clear follicle channels for better absorption of active ingredients.
Live In Mist & Mend: Serve as styling and protective treatments, enhancing overall hair aesthetics while contributing to hair health.
Customer Experiences and Expert Insights
Aggregated User Testimonials
Although individual experiences with Arey Grey vary, a significant pattern emerges among users with early-stage greying (0–30% coverage). Many report that within 1–2 months of consistent use, scalp health improves markedly. Users observe that hair becomes fuller, softer, and experiences less shedding. After 4–6 months, several individuals have noted a decrease in the appearance of new grey hairs and, in some cases, even repigmentation of strands that had started to fade.
For example, one long‑term user noted, “After six months of consistent use, my hair looks noticeably thicker and the progression of grey hair seems to have slowed dramatically.” Such testimonials are echoed on social platforms like TikTok, where many users share before-and-after results and practical tips on integrating the products into daily routines.
Expert/Pro Tips
Haircare experts and dermatologists emphasize that consistency is key. Here are five expert tips for those considering Arey Grey:
1
Commit to the Routine
Use both the supplement and topical applications daily for at least 4–6 months before expecting substantial changes.
2
Pair Products Synergistically
Combine Not Today, Grey with To The Root Serum to address both systemic nutritional needs and local scalp health.
3
Customize for Your Hair Type
Adjust the amount of serum or shampoo based on whether your hair is fine or coarse.
4
Monitor Your Progress
Take before-and-after photos periodically to objectively evaluate improvements.
5
Consult a Professional
If you have underlying health concerns, speak with a healthcare provider to ensure the regimen suits your specific needs.
Comparison with Competitors
Within the anti-grey hair market, Arey Grey competes with products from brands like Vegamour and Mayraki. Here’s a side‑by‑side comparison:
Arey Grey’s competitive edge lies in its integrated approach. By combining oral and topical solutions and basing its formulations on clinically supported ingredients, the brand offers a system that is not only cost‑competitive but also scientifically grounded. Its subscription models and free shipping options further enhance overall value.
Safety, Pricing, and Value
Safety Analysis
Safety is paramount in any health‑related product. Arey Grey is manufactured in NSF‑certified and FDA‑registered facilities, ensuring strict adherence to quality standards. However, some ingredients warrant caution:
Fo‑Ti: Although used at low doses in Arey Grey’s formulas, fo‑ti has been associated with liver toxicity in rare cases.10 (Thang et al., 2017). Individuals with pre‑existing liver conditions, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should consult a healthcare provider before use.
PABA: While PABA has shown potential in promoting hair darkening, it has also been noted to have toxic effects in large quantities.11
Sesame: Present in several products, sesame is a common allergen, and users with known allergies should be cautious.
Overall, for the vast majority of healthy adults, the products remain within safe intake limits for all active ingredients (Office of Dietary Supplements, 2024).
Pricing and Subscription Models
Arey Grey’s products typically range from approximately $30 to $55 for individual items. The brand offers competitive subscription discounts and free shipping on orders over $100 (in the U.S.), making the overall system a cost‑effective option compared to some higher‑priced competitors. Although the return policy is relatively narrow (15‑day window with a $5 handling fee), the four‑month satisfaction guarantee helps mitigate risk for first‑time users.
Overall Value
When balancing clinical validation, consumer testimonials, and cost, Arey Grey presents strong overall value—particularly for those in the early stages of greying. Its dual approach, combining a systemic supplement with targeted topical treatments, offers a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the causes and visible signs of greying. For individuals with 0–30% grey coverage, the system is especially compelling. However, users with advanced greying may see less dramatic benefits.
Final Recommendation: For those seeking a proactive, science‑driven solution to early greying, Arey Grey is worth considering. Its dual approach tackles the issue both from the inside and the outside, offering benefits that extend beyond simple pigment restoration. However, potential users should remain patient and consistent with their regimen and consider consulting a healthcare professional—especially if they have underlying health concerns or are in a sensitive group.
If you’re in the early stages of greying and looking for a comprehensive, clinically supported haircare system, Arey Grey might just be the breakthrough you need. With robust scientific backing, competitive pricing, and a growing community of satisfied users, it stands out as a pioneering solution in the anti‑grey hair market.
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April 6, 2025
Current Version
April 6, 2025
April 6, 2025
Written By Kalpna Anand, Ph.D. Edited By Suzanne Briggs Medically Reviewed By Robin M Voigt-Zuwala, PhD Copy Edited By Jun Xu
April 6, 2025
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