Though certain health conditions and nutritional deficiencies could lead to prematurely graying hair, this cannot be reversed if it is caused by aging or genetics.
Why People Get White Hair
Gray or white hair typically results from melanin loss. This is a pigment-producing component responsible for melanocyte cell production. These are what make up a person's natural skin and hair color.
When melanin levels are lower, hair color gets lighter. Minimal melanin is present in gray hair, and no melanin is present in white hair.
It is normal to lose hair melanin as one age. In fact, the chances of graying hair go up by 20% a decade after a person reaches their 30s. Some people could see grays quite early because of genetics and health.
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When White Hair Reversal Isn't Possible If Due to Aging or Genetics
The natural color of hair is actually white. Melanin gives the color a person is born with, which depends on their genetics. The hair follicles have cells that are used by melanin for pigment production. This then mixes with keratin proteins.
It is natural for melanin loss to occur in the hair, especially after a person hits their 30s. However, genes determine the exact hair loss rate. If one's parents had premature hair graying, they would likely experience the same.
If genetics is the primary driver for white hair, it is not possible for hair to return to its natural color. When the hair follicles no longer have melanin, they are unable to produce it on their own. With the slowing of melanin production, hair turns gray. It eventually becomes white when melanin production stops completely.
Treating Gray Hair
Experiencing prematurely graying hair before one's 30s or 20s is usually hereditary. However, some health conditions and nutritional deficiencies could also contribute to this.
For those who have a balanced diet, gray hairs are likely not associated with nutritional deficiencies. However, for those who do not have enough of certain nutrients, this could impact the production of melanin in the follicles. The primary culprit for this is Vitamin B-12, though iron, copper, and folate deficiencies could also increase risk.
While dietary supplements could help with this, it is important to see a doctor before trying any supplements.
Aside from this, health conditions could also be the reason why a person experiences premature gray hair. These conditions include alopecia areata, vitiligo, and thyroid disease. Fluctuations in hormones could also play a role.
While there is no clear-cut way to prevent hair graying for those with an underlying medical condition or nutritional deficiency, some remedies could help slow the onset of graying. These include stress management, quitting smoking, maintaining weight, reducing pollution and chemical exposure, and protecting hair from the sun.
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