Like most people, we often tend to believe that grey hair is a sign of growing older or is based on one’s genetics. Although that’s partly true, they’re not the only factors causing it. In this blog we’ll be highlighting the science behind greying hair, what causes it, and ways to prevent it, in depth. If you’ve been noticing unusual greying of hair and feel a little concerned, you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s begin with the basics!
Why does hair turn grey?
The color of our hair is widely determined by a pigment called melanin. As we age, the amount of melanin produced by our body decreases, resulting in grey/white hair. Apart from that, your genetics also play a role in deciding how early you begin to notice white hair. Here’s why. Your genes have a significant role in determining the kind and quantity of melanin generated. You are likely to have premature greying if your parents or ancestors did.
However, in some instances, the real culprit could be something as common as an unhealthy lifestyle. Premature greying of hair can have a negative impact on how one perceives themselves. This is why it is crucial to understand what’s causing it and for those who haven’t experienced it yet, this information can be a game-changer for you.
Want to know what’s causing you those grey strands? Keep reading…
Some of the lesser-known causes of greying hair
Hormonal Changes
Did you know that major hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause premature greying? So, if you’re expecting and notice grey hair, you know what’s causing it. Similarly, thyroid disorders such as Hyperthyroidism or Hyperthyroidism can cause hormonal changes which in turn can cause grey hair. Additionally, melanin production in hair follicles can be impacted by hormonal changes that take place during menopause and andropause (the male version of menopause), which results in gray hair.
Stress
When was the last time you heard someone say, ‘Life is stress-free’ Probably never because that’s what life is all about. Our everyday hustle and worries about the future are all major contributors to this 6-letter word we call STRESS and believe it or not, the more you stress, the greater your chances of getting grey hair. Now you’re probably stressing about how to stress less but you don’t have to. Practicing yoga daily, meditation, breathing exercises, and working out daily can help relieve stress.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Premature greying can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, especially a deficiency in specific B vitamins such as B12 and folate. These vitamins are essential for the production of melanin, and when your body lacks these vitamins, it can result in a decrease in melanin synthesis. Consumption of multivitamins in case of vitamin deficiencies for example vitamin B12, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and biotin can help strengthen the hair follicle and improve hair quality and scalp health.
Unhealthy Lifestyle/Diet
Home-cooked food, what’s that? Most of us have forgotten what it’s like to consume wholesome, healthy meals. The nutritional value of takeaway and processed food is zero, but that’s what most of us consume today, regardless of what it’s doing to our bodies. However, what we say next, will put an end to this unhealthy lifestyle. Our body, skin, and hair are a reflection of what we eat. If you don’t give your body what it needs to function well, it’ll eventually backfire leading to health problems including excessive hair loss and grey hair.
Smoking
Smoking is not only injurious to your lungs, but it also impacts your overall health. One of the least known factors of premature greying is smoking. Let us explain why. Cigarettes contain nicotine and when inhaled it narrows the blood vessels and restricts blood flow. Decreased blood flow in the body is the reason for premature greying in smokers. Quit now and see the difference it makes.
The bottom line –
White or grey hair is a common sign of aging, knowing why it happens can help you embrace the change graciously and with confidence. Also, if you’re wondering if grey hair or premature greying of hair can be reversed, the answer is yes. So, stress less, live a better lifestyle, eat healthy, and stay fit. Remember that all good things take time and trust us as we say that being consistent will reward you with healthy, black hair once again. It’s never too late!