I had my first grey streak (right up the middle of my head) when I was 13 years old. I colored my hair for years and years before I just got sick of it. I have very short hair which is originally dark brown, but is pure white in front and shot through with white all over.
I went to a temporary color while growing it out. I used Castings by Loreal. It faded out gradually and didn't seem to look so severe.
I may look older than my 39 years with all of my grey, but I have come to terms with the fact that these are "God's highlights".
The funny part is that when I leave the salon, often people will tell my hairdresser that they want highlights just like mine!
Suzi