
Is Grey Hair Thicker or Thinner? The Truth Behind Hair Texture and Growth
One of the most common myths about grey hair is that it's inherently thinner or weaker than pigmented hair. However, scientific research tells a more complex story. A 2011 study revealed that white (non-pigmented) hair can actually be thicker and grow faster than its pigmented counterparts. This is due to an upregulation of keratin and keratin-associated protein genes in grey hair follicles, indicating a biologically active growth process at the root level.
Why Grey Hair Feels More Fragile
Despite these findings, many people with grey curls experience their hair as drier, finer, or more prone to breakage. This is typically due to a thinner cuticle—or outer layer—on each strand, which reduces the hair’s natural moisture retention. As the scalp produces less oil with age, grey hair is more exposed to dryness and environmental stress, which can affect texture and manageability.
- Thinner cuticle = increased dryness
- Age-related oil reduction = less natural protection
- Environmental damage = more susceptibility to breakage
Understanding Hair Texture Change with Age
Grey hair often changes in texture as it loses melanin. This transformation can make it feel wiry, coarse, or even limp—differences that are more about surface structure than the actual thickness of the hair shaft. Genetics, scalp health, and everyday care routines all play a role in how this change manifests.
That’s where a high-quality haircare regimen comes in. For those with grey, curly, or mixed-texture hair, products that restore moisture, strengthen strands, and reduce breakage are a game changer. The key lies not in fighting the nature of grey hair, but in nourishing it into its healthiest state.
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Manhattan Grey is a line of premium moisture products formulated for textured grey hair. Our signature products are a lightweight pomade and hydration oil help to eliminate dryness, prevent breakage, and soothe itching. It’s also safe to use on our skin and facial hair.
We are committed to giving our customers, who have been largely overlooked by the beauty and personal care industry, a product experience that offers premium hair care products uniquely blended to address the challenges of grey or greying hair.
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View allI purchased the hoodie and T-Shirt and love both items. I have one request - I would love to get a hoodie with your company’s name on it so I could advertise this fantastic product. Thanks!
I love the Grey Hair Vegan Moisture Pomade (petroleum free). The scent, the feel and the moisturizing properties of this product. It makes my beard feel and look great. I receive compliments from multiple people on the healthiness and shine of my beard. It is not too heavy and really enhances my grey hairs on my salt & pepper beard.
The vegan pomade does manic to my scalp and hair. The pomade is lightweight and non greasy. A little goes a long way. This is my go to scalp and hair product.
I recently ordered to support my folks and from the reviews. At 55 yrs old my grey is just beginning to sprout and I am happy about that. However, they have a mind of their own and in just a few days this product has allowed my grey’s to marry my texture and trainable for my future growth after cutting my locs. The owner sent me a welcome and that means everything you got a customer/supporter for life thank you sis 🙏🏽
I have very sensitive skin, so I don't try new products very often. But, because my hair was so dry and dull, I decided to give Manhattan Grey a try and I'm glad I did. I'm really pleased with the product. I haven't developed any skin problems at all, and my hair looks much better. I plan to place another order when get low on what I have because this is a good product for me.