Be Inspired: Grey Blending with NXT Professional

October 15, 2026

THE NEW GREY MOVEMENT

Grey blending is changing the way clients approach colour. For Autumn/Winter 2026, the focus is on enhancing natural grey rather than concealing it. Ash and neutral tones create soft transitions and movement, while a personalised placement keeps the result looking natural.

Working with a client’s existing grey pattern can create a lighter, softer look that grows out more subtly. Grey becomes part of the look, not something to hide.

WHY GREY BLENDING MATTER

More clients are looking for colour that complements their natural grey while adding softness, shine and tonal definition. Grey blending can offer a more gradual transition than full coverage, with a result tailored to each client’s starting colour and maintenance preferences.

CREATE THE LOOK WITH NXT: SMOKED SILVER BLEND

Natural Base: 6-0 with 40% grey.

Previous Colour: Combination of grown out highlights and balayage on ends.


Step 1 Starting at the nape, take an angled section approximately 1.5 cm wide to create a triangular section. Apply a balayage foil using Pro-Tech Bleach with 20 vol (6%) developer.	Step 2 Take the next section on the opposite diagonal to create a second triangle. Apply a babylight foil using Pro-Tech Bleach with 20 vol (6%) developer. Continue alternating the section pattern through the back.	Step 3 At the hairline, use finely woven babylights to create a soft face frame. Apply Pro-Tech Bleach with 30 vol (9%) developer.

Step 4 On the sides, begin at a 45-degree angle and continue alternating babylights and balayage sections. Gradually pivot to horizontal sections at the parting, using Pro-Tech Bleach with 30 vol (9%) developer. Process for up to 45 minutes, checking regularly. Rinse and towel-dry.	Step 5 Apply toner all over using shade NXT Toner 10–11 with 5 vol (1.5%) cream releaser. Process for up to 20 minutes, checking regularly.	Rinse, dry and style as desired. Styling product suggestions: iQ Hair Serum iQ Blow Dry Cream iQ 10-in-1 Shop the iQ styling range

HOLLY BULLOCK ON COLOUR IN 2026
“Grey blending remains one of the most important conversations happening in the world of hair today. More clients are choosing colour that works with their natural grey rather than covering it completely. The use of Ash and intense Ash shades allow us to create beautiful dimension whilst maintaining a natural, healthy-looking finish. It’s elegant, authentic and incredibly wearable!”

Holly Bullock, NXT Brand Ambassador

DISCOVER THE NXT COLOUR EXPERIENCE

NXT is designed for colourists seeking control, consistency and creative flexibility behind the chair. Its permanent and demi-permanent shades and professional toners support a range of colour services, helping colourists tailor results to each client.

WHAT SETS NXT APART: