Journalist and writer Camila Balthazar will present her latest work this Wednesday in Florianópolis. Without Dye delves into the topics of beauty standards, self-esteem, the fear of aging, and addressing gray hair among women.

A study conducted by Camila Balthazar found an exponential increase in the number of women who stopped dyeing their hair during the pandemic. Photo: Marcos Trinca/ND

In 232 pages, Camila Balthazar presents the results of two years of research, interviewing more than 30 women: scientists, psychologists, hairdressers, Internet famous gray-haired women and a rabbi.

The journey begins with the author’s personal question: “What if I stopped dyeing my hair?” The book examines not only the aesthetic decision, but also how these choices impact issues of gender, race, social class, health, feminism, and ageism.

Taboo on gray

The writer emphasizes the ambivalence that women face in relation to aging: while men associate gray hair with charm and wisdom, for women, unfortunately, it is often associated with neglect and abandonment.

More and more women are getting gray hair – Photo: Freepik/ND

The author highlights how such perceptions can affect the inclusion of older women in the workplace. Some feel forced to dye their hair to maintain respectability.

“I never wanted to convince anyone to stop dyeing their hair. What prompted me to write was to emphasize something obvious, but which is still little talked about: it’s also possible not to dye your hair,” says the journalist.

Interviews show that freedom is a multifaceted concept among women who choose to leave their hair gray. Camila emphasizes the importance of individual choice: to maintain the color or embrace a natural transition.

The book also explores the different perspectives of beauty professionals, highlighting how their opinions can influence clients’ choices.

The Science Behind Gray Hair

The journalist delves into the science of hair, interviewing researchers to understand the differences between strands with and without melanin. The work explores intriguing questions such as why gray hair turns yellow and how chemical treatments affect hair texture.

The book also examines the ancient history of hair dye, from para-phenylenediamine to the present day.

“During the interviews, I was surprised to find that most gray women reported more negative consequences at work than in their romantic lives,” she says.

A study conducted by Camila Balthazar of 54 beauty salons shows a marked 74% increase in the number of women who stopped dyeing their hair during the pandemic.

However, the analysis points to significant differences in behavior across different age groups and regions of the country, challenging the prejudices and stereotypes associated with gray hair.

Presentation in Florianopolis

Without Paint is a book that explores the themes of beauty standards, self-esteem and the fear of aging among women. Photo: Raffaella Piazza/ND

The launch of “Sem Tinta” will include a book signing, a conversation with therapist Thelma Lenzi, a musical performance with Luis Sebastian, Alexandre Damaria and a special performance by Iva Giracchi.

The book, published by Paraquedas, will be presented this Wednesday (29) at 19:00 at Porão Delfino 146 in Florianópolis. The event will be open and with free entry.