What causes premature gray hair?

Gray hair is a natural phenomenon in human development, often causing many people to worry because it is related to signs of aging.

Hair color is determined by a natural pigment called melanin, says Wilma Bergfeld, MD, a dermatologist in the United States. Changes in melanin production are what cause hair to turn gray or white, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Causes of gray hair

Melanin is the element that gives hair its color, with different combinations creating black, brown, blonde or red.

The amount of melanin and the mixing ratio between these pigments will determine each person's hair color.

However, over time, the melanin-producing cells in hair follicles become less active. This may be due to aging, damage, or loss of support systems in the body.

When melanin is no longer produced in sufficient amounts, hair fades to grey or white. Typically, most people start to see grey hair in their 30s or 40s. However, this varies from person to person.

There are many causes of premature gray hair.

Photo: AI

Causes of premature gray hair

Age is not the only factor that causes hair to change color. Many young people can still experience premature graying if they fall into the following cases.

Chronic stress. Stress   is one of the factors that can affect melanin-producing cells. The body responds to stress by releasing norepinephrine, a chemical involved in the stress response. This can deplete pigment cells, leading to premature graying of hair.

Genetics also play a significant role. People whose parents experienced premature graying are more likely to experience the same condition.

Chemicals in cigarette smoke can also damage melanin-producing cells, leading to hair color changes at an earlier age than normal.

Nutritional deficiencies , especially vitamin B12 and iron, affect hair health. Both of these nutrients play an important role in maintaining hair color and strength.

Some autoimmune diseases such as alopecia or vitiligo cause the immune system to attack melanin-producing cells, resulting in noticeably white or gray hair.

Does gray hair restore its original color?

According to Ms. Bergfeld, once hair turns gray, it is difficult to return to its previous color if the cause is age. Pigment cells that stop working often cannot regenerate themselves. This means that the body cannot produce melanin like when it was young. There is no natural method to help hair return to its original color after it has turned gray due to age.

However, if gray hair is caused by a controllable cause such as stress, smoking or poor nutrition, lifestyle changes can help slow the graying process.

Reducing stress, quitting smoking, and getting adequate nutrition can help you maintain your natural hair color longer.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nguyen-nhan-nao-gay-toc-bac-som-185250805182029398.htm