Why hair turns grey?

Why hair turns grey?

Greying hair is usually considered of as a natural part of ageing, some people experience premature greying, in which their hair loses color at a young age. Affected people may experience substantial emotional and psychological effects from premature greying since it may change how they feel about themselves and how they view ageing. 

The goal of this article is to find out the reasons underlying early hair ageing and consider possible causes and contributors.

Causes:-

• Premature greying is fundamentally influenced by genetic factors. Premature greying has been associated with genetic variations. An imbalance in melanin production brought on by genetic predisposition might cause early hair color loss.

• Premature greying of hair has been caused by  some autoimmune diseases. These diseases develop as a result of the immune  system of the body attacking melanocytes, which are the cells that produce melanin. As a result, melanin production and dispersion may be interfered with, which may result in early greying in those who are affected.

• Premature greying is thought to be influenced by oxidative stress, which is characterised by an imbalance between free radicals and the body's antioxidant defences. Melanocyte damage from increased oxidative stress can reduce the formation of melanin. Environmental contaminants, exposure to UV light, smoking, and inadequate nutrition are some of the causes of oxidative stress. These elements can hasten greying, especially in those with hereditary predispositions.

• Premature greying has been associated with psychological and stress issues, while the precise mechanisms are yet unknown. Chronic stress may interfere with melanocytes' normal function, affecting the generation of melanin and the colour of hair. To prove a direct causal link between psychological variables and premature greying, more research is necessary.

• Premature greying may be brought on by hormonal abnormalities, particularly those involving the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland controls the growth and colour of hair among other body processes. Thyroid hormone imbalances can impact melanocyte function and cause premature greying. Additionally, hair colour changes, including premature greying, have been linked to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause.

       

Premature graying of hair at a young age can be attributed to a combination of genetic, autoimmune, oxidative, hormonal, and psychological factors. 

Understanding the underlying causes of premature graying can help individuals cope with this condition and provide insights into potential preventive and therapeutic interventions in the future. Furthermore, fostering a positive attitude towards natural variations in hair color and embracing the uniqueness of one's appearance can contribute to a healthy self-perception and overall well-being.