White hair, or gray hair, is a natural occurrence that occurs with age. However, some people may experience gray hair earlier than others.
THE ESSENTIAL
- White hair appears more quickly in people with a genetic predisposition, a stressful lifestyle, nutrient deficiencies, certain health problems, who smoke or who expose themselves excessively to the sun.
- Slowing down the appearance of gray hair is possible by managing stress, eating a healthy diet, taking supplements if necessary, protecting your hair from the sun and avoiding smoking.
- There is no surefire way to prevent or reverse premature graying, but a healthy lifestyle can help delay it.
Several factors can contribute to the early onset of gray hair.
Grayness: 6 factors that accelerate the appearance of white hair
- Genetics: If your parents or grandparents had premature gray hair, you are more likely to have it too.
- Stress: Severe, chronic stress can disrupt the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins B12, D, iron or copper can also contribute to premature graying.
- Certain medical conditions: Diseases such as vitiligo, pernicious anemia, and Waardenburg syndrome can also cause premature graying.
- Smoking: Smokers tend to get gray hair earlier than non-smokers.
- Sun exposure: Excessive exposure to the sun can damage melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin.
How to slow down the appearance of white hair?
If you are concerned about the early onset of gray hair, there are steps you can take to slow down the process:
- Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
- Eat a healthy diet: Make sure you eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.
- Taking Supplements: If you have nutrient deficiencies, talk to your doctor about taking supplements.
- Protect your hair from the sun: Wear a hat and apply sunscreen to your hair when you are in the sun.
- Avoid smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including the health of your hair.
It is important to note that there is no surefire way to prevent or reverse premature graying. However, by adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of developing premature gray hair and keep your hair healthy for longer.
