Premature greying of hair is the phenomenon of hair turning grey or white at an earlier age than expected. While it is a natural part of the ageing process, premature greying can Premature greying of hair can have negative effects on appearance, self-confidence, self-esteem, and social acceptance of the affected individual. It can occur due to various factors. Here are some common causes and potential solutions for preventing premature greying:
Causes of premature greying
Genetic factors and family disposition
Premature greying can be influenced by genetics, meaning it may run in families. If your parents or close relatives experienced premature greying, you may be more likely to develop it as well.
Increased levels of stress
Chronic stress and emotional trauma have been linked to premature greying. Stressful events or prolonged periods of anxiety can impact the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour.
Nutritional deficiencies
Inadequate intake of certain vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B12, iodine, vitamin D, copper, and iron, can contribute to premature greying. These nutrients play essential roles in maintaining hair pigmentation.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders (especially hypothyroidism), vitiligo, and autoimmune diseases can affect the melanin production process, leading to premature greying.
Chemical hair dyes and hair products
Chemical dyes contain harmful ingredients like hydrogen peroxide that cause a decrease in melanin. Even shampoos and conditioners contain harsh chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) that contribute to the exhaustion of melanocyte’s capability to produce hair pigmentation.
Lifestyle factors
Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition can accelerate the greying process.
Prevention and solutions
Balanced diet
Avoid foods such as soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages, candies, commercial baked goods, processed, high-fat meats like bacon, sausage, and salami to prevent premature greying of hair. Instead, consume a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Include foods like leafy green vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, fish, and lean meats to ensure you’re getting adequate amounts of essential nutrients for hair health. Consuming the below mentioned foods might be beneficial:
- Catalase-rich foods like sweet potato, carrots, garlic, broccoli.
- Seaweed to get in all your trace minerals, especially zinc, magnesium, selenium, copper, zinc, and iron.
- Black sesame, black beans, blackstrap molasses, nigella seeds (kalonji).
- Copper-rich foods like cashews, potatoes, chickpeas, almonds, mushrooms, and so on.
- Vitamin B-rich food sources such as curd, paneer, banana, carrots, or even a vegetable.
- Dairy, beef, salmon, eggs, fruits, and vegetables to keep hair healthy, strong, and pigmented.
- Antioxidant-rich foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, green teas, olive oil, and fish
Stress management
Stay as stress-free as possible to keep hair from falling out; otherwise, hair may lose pigment and turn grey when it grows back. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, regular exercise, and engage in hobbies to manage stress levels effectively.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Smoking and excessive alcohol intake can accelerate the ageing process, including premature greying. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption can help slow down the greying process.
Adequate vitamin B12 intake
Ensure you have sufficient vitamin B12 levels by including foods like fish, meat, dairy products, and fortified cereals in your diet. If needed, consult a healthcare professional for supplements.
Certain underlying medical conditions
If you suspect an underlying medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder, consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Hair care
Avoid excessive use of harsh hair products, heat styling tools, that can damage hair. Opt for nourishing hair care products that contain antioxidants and vitamins that promote hair health. Use natural hair dyes and avoid chemical hair dyes and hair products.
Hair supplements
Some hair supplements or over-the-counter products claim to prevent or slow down greying. However, their efficacy varies, and it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before trying any supplements.
Closing thoughts
It’s important to note that while these preventive measures may help slow down or delay the onset of premature greying, they may not guarantee complete prevention or reversal. Premature greying can still occur due to genetic factors or other factors such as hormonal imbalances or as a side effect of certain medical conditions. If you’re concerned about premature greying or have specific questions, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
