Like many, you too must have wondered why some individuals experience the loss of their natural hair colour at a relatively young age. Premature greying of hair refers to the condition where an individual experiences the loss of natural hair colour at a relatively young age, typically before age 35. It is the appearance of grey or white hair strands before they would normally be expected based on genetic and environmental factors.
This article will dive deep into the causes, potential factors, insights surrounding premature greying, and how one can prevent it. Don’t forget to read this till the end because we also list solutions for preventing premature greying!
Causes of Premature Greying:
1. Genetics and family history
The composition of genetics and family history plays an important role in the formation of your health or of a disease. If your parents or grandparents experienced white hair at a young age then the chances of you experiencing it increases.
2. Immune system
As we know the immune system in the worst cases can backfire on its own cells and attack them. The most known health issues are vitiligo and alopecia. So in case of these or other autoimmune diseases, it can affect your hair resulting in premature greying.
3. Stress and its consequences
Stress leads to hair fall, sleeping disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, changes in food habits, fatigue, indigestion and more. But stress not just causes hair fall but greying of hair. There is a direct connection between stress and reduction of stem cells (melanocytes) in the hair follicles. The color of human hair is due to pigment melanin produced by melanocytes, depletion leads to reduction in melanin production and hence loss of colour.
4. Deficiency of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is vital for the healthy nervous system and brain health. It also helps red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body, keeping them healthy. The deficiency in Vitamin B12 can cause hair loss and greying hair. You can do a blood test to check for a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
5. Low production of Melanin
The cells in hair follicles work together to give hair its natural colour. When melanin production decreases, it leads to hair colour turning in grey or white.
6. Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism
Hormonal changes caused by the thyroid affect different areas of health, including the hair. The thyroid condition affects hair loss and even premature greying of hair. Depending on the status of the thyroid – underactive or overactive, it affects melanin production and hence, the colour of the hair.
Prevention of Premature Greying: 
The answer totally depends on the cause of premature greying of hair. Causes like genetics can’t be worked upon, but other causes can be prevented. Let’s see how!
Get tested: Consult a doctor and get your blood tests done. Blood tests can give you great insights into how well your internal body is functioning.
Eat a vitamins and minerals-rich diet: Includes foods rich in vitamins like B12, D, E, A, and minerals like zinc, iron and magnesium. You can also use supplements after consulting a doctor.
Stress Control: In case of stress, start with identifying your stressors. It is not easy to cope with stress alone, so consult a therapist. Real courage is in being vulnerable and getting the help that you need.
Stop Damage: Take a break from chemical and heat treatments: Stop constantly damaging your hair with chemical treatments, styling tools, and harsh hair care products.
Use products that are naturally derived and have ingredients like Bhringraj, Amla, or Chamomile in them. They are best for preventing and curing premature greying of hair.
We have carefully curated the ingredients in our range of Curly, Wavy and Straight hair Midnight Potions, each potent with these ingredients to prevent and treat premature greying of hair.
Ah, you made it till the end! We hope this blog has answered all your questions.
We have curated products based on your hair type and its needs. To know more about your hair type, read this blog. Here's 15% off on the Midnight Potion!
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