Alexandra Grant, partner to Keanu Reeves, has a pretty iconic head of hair.
Her silky, gray locks have become a signature part of her look, joining the ranks of similar silver vixens, like Andie McDowell and Helen Mirren. However, the reasoning behind her hair color is less about vanity and more about personal health. In a 2019 Instagram post, she wrote:
“Wow. Today’s news… The numbers are staggering, especially for womxn of color. I went gray prematurely in my early 20’s… and dyed my hair every color along the way until I couldn’t tolerate the toxicity of the dyes any more. In my 30’s I let my hair turn “blonde”… I love and support that every womxn can choose how she wants to look at every age. But/and, if womxn are perishing from beauty standards… then let’s talk about those beauty standards. Love to all womxn!”
Grant is referring to studies published by Newsweek, which found that long term use of hair dyes and relaxers increases a person’s likelihood of developing breast cancer. Considering that Grant became gray early on in her life, it’s a measured decision to try and protect her health.
And, let’s be real, ladies—everyone’s hair is going to lose pigment, whether it turns gray, silver, white, or mousy brown. For those whose hair started to lose pigment early on, often hair dyes are suggested to “fix” what isn’t really a problem, without offering research or consultation about the health drawbacks. As more public figures wear their natural hair in the public eye, maybe the pressure to reach an unattainable standard will start to subside.
Sources:
https://www.instagram.com/grantalexandra/
https://www.wmagazine.com/story/alexandra-grant-keanu-girlfriend-health-risks-of-hair-dye-grey
