Wait, how OLD are you?! #naturallygray

We’ve been taught that it’s rude to ask a woman her age.

And if we break that norm, we couch it with; “I hope you don’t mind if I ask but…” or “You totally don’t have to answer but…”

And it’s in this couching where the insult lies. Like, the way the question is asked, it’s meant to make women feel shameful about their answer.

(And yes, I say “women” because we don’t phrase this question the same way for men).

Also, the reactions to age responses like, “Omg, I can’t believe you are [XX number]!” Or “You don’t look a day over 29!” just continue to uphold and reinforce the ageist idealism that younger = better. Younger = more worthy. Younger = is the goal.

So when I see people shook like “How old are you?” after watching my content, IM OKAY WITH IT.

I’m 45 y’all! And I’m about to be 46 in a couple weeks.

I love this question and I’ll continue to answer it with pride.

This little shift in dialogue can really make a big difference about how we individually and collectively think about age.

You don’t have to do the same. But if you are up for it, I’m here to support.

Next time someone asks you how old you are. Say:

“I’m XX fool!”

Pahahahhaa! Just kidding. Say:

“I’m XX.”

Say it with a smile and with direct eye contact. Don’t say anything else to qualify or disqualify your age. Just put it out there and let it be what it is.

And see what happens next.

What do you think? Would you give this a try?

[FindingBeautyKG]

I’m 45 with salt & pepper hair. I love your confidence and it has inspired me to embrace and love my hair!

[lourdes]

Beautiful hair!! I am doing exactly the same!!! Grey hair will not make you old unless you lready look old to begin with!! This such annoying thing to say. I see young people looking old with no grey. So, do what makes you happy no need to explain yourself to the world!!!

[karindemir]

It doesn’t matter your age, but you look great with this hair. It doesn’t make you look older. I wish this was normalized, and woman hadn’t to suffer this hair dying anymore

[jjjks]

I’m 42 and proud salt and pepper. (Not fully grown out yet, but getting there!) I don’t understand people’s obsession with age… who cares how old I am? 😊

[melindatagg]

Your stunning!! And really suit it! So how old are you?? I think you actually look really young. So it's hard to guess!

[nickdavis]

Do you use a purple mask? ( Not shampoo) I mean a deposit color pigment?