Grey hairs are among the natural signs of aging – but what happens when they appear in your youth? That’s right – prematurely-greying hair is a THING, and while some people just decide to live with them, others do everything then can – from plucking to dyeing – to hide the grey and maintain their youthful appearance.
One of the common causes of premature grey hair is stress – including from anxiety, insomnia and appetite changes. A 2013 study discovered a correlation between stress and the loss of stem cells in mouse hair follicles. If you’ve observed an increase in the number of white strands in your hair, it’s possible that stress is to blame.
Here are other common causes of prematurely-greying hair:
Genetics
The gene pool from your family might be the reason for your premature grey hair, as you might have inherited the genes from your parents. According to research published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology in 2013, race and ethnicity play a role as well. Premature greying can begin as early as 20 years old in Caucasian individuals, 25 in Asians, and 30 in African-Americans.
Thyroid Disorder
Thyroid problems, including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can produce hormonal changes that cause premature grey hair.
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland near the base of the neck. It aids in the regulation of various body activities, including metabolism. The colour of your hair might be influenced by the condition of your thyroid gland: your body may create less melanin if your thyroid is hyperactive or underactive.
Vitamin B-12 Deficiency
Premature grey hair might also indicate a vitamin B-12 deficiency. This vitamin boosts your energy levels while also promoting healthy hair growth and colour. Vitamin B-12 deficiency is linked to pernicious anemia, a disorder in which your body is unable to absorb enough of this vitamin.
Vitamin B-12 is required for healthy red blood cells, which transport oxygen to all of your body’s cells, including hair cells. Hair cells can be weakened and melanin synthesis might be affected by a shortage.
Stopping the greying of hair is impossible, as both age and genetics are irreversible. However, if it is caused by bad lifestyle choices, it is possible to prevent your mane from losing its colour.
Here are some ways you could prevent premature grey hair:
Eat More Antioxidants
Having a diet full of antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, could help prevent premature grey hair as antioxidants could reduce oxidative stress.
Take Vitamin Supplements
Repairing a vitamin B-12 deficit with injections or tablets may help increase the health of hair follicles and restore your natural colour.
Better Stress Management
Reduce unwanted stresses in your life, or learn to deal with stress in constructive, good ways, such as through exercise, deep breathing, or meditation. It would help you understand yourself better and is a more effective way for you to avoid stressors that would agitate you.
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