Despite the ashy accusation, I've been having some great hair days lately.

 Thanks to a commentator, I think I have discovered the root of my ashy hair symptom. A Mrs. Mac suggested the following:

Hi hun, as I was suggesting maybe have a look at the products you are using it could possibly be product build up over time which might be giving the locs a dull look, maybe try clarifying or possibly cutting down on any moisture products that you might be using or anything with too much oil. Hope that helps.
I think she maybe right. Instead of using my homemade moisturizers to thicken the thinning parts of my locks (the problem root areas), I have been using them all over and it maybe too heavy. To combat this I will be doing a clarifying treatment using baking soda and apple cider vinegar.  See the ACV instructions here.