cosmetologist, dermatovenereologist, trichologist
The appearance of gray hair is associated with the body’s natural aging process. Hair contains melanin, the pigmented material that gives it its color. The substance is produced by special cells called melanocytes, which are found in hair follicles. With age, their number and activity may decrease. New strands at the same time become lighter or gray.
What are the causes of gray hair?
Gray hair can appear not only with age, but also under the influence of other factors, such as genetic predisposition, stress, environmental exposure or certain diseases.
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One of the main causes of premature aging is genetic predisposition. If your parents or close relatives started getting gray hair early, chances are you’ll have gray hair before middle age. Heredity determines the rate of decline in melanocyte activity and melanin production, which can lead to premature aging.
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In addition, certain medical conditions, such as alopecia areata (an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks hair follicles) or vitiligo (a disease in which pigment cells are destroyed), can cause premature graying in children.
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How to prevent gray hair
At the moment, there is no known way to completely prevent the appearance of gray hair, since this is a natural process that can only be slowed down.
Healthy life style. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle contributes to maintaining healthy hair and skin. This includes proper nutrition, getting enough vitamins and minerals, regular exercise, and stress management.
Also read:
Why does hair turn gray early? The doctor called 6 non-obvious reasons
UV protection. Increased exposure to ultraviolet rays negatively affects the condition of the hair and skin. Therefore, it is important to use sunscreen and wear hats.
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Stress management. It has a negative effect on the body and may be associated with the early appearance of gray hair. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, meditation or physical activity helps to strengthen hair.
Give up smoking. Research has linked smoking with premature aging. Therefore, giving up bad habits can have a positive impact on the health of hair and skin.
It is important to understand that these factors are not guaranteed to prevent gray hair, but they can contribute to the overall health and condition of your hair.
When should you see a doctor?
The lack of certain elements, such as copper, iron, zinc and others, is also potentially associated with the appearance of gray hair.
Copper. It plays an important role in the formation of melanin, the pigment material responsible for hair color. A lack of copper can lead to a disruption in the production of melanin and, as a result, a change in hair color. However, a direct link between copper deficiency and hair aging requires further investigation.
Iron. Necessary for healthy hair growth and maintenance of its pigmentation. Iron deficiency contributes to impaired pigmentation.
Zinc. Participates in the formation and synthesis of melanin. Zinc deficiency can lead to decreased pigment production, which contributes to gray hair.
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It is important to note that deficiencies in these elements may be one of the many causes of aging, and they are not the only factors that determine this process. It is important to see a doctor or dietitian to assess your condition and determine appropriate actions, such as changing your diet or taking nutritional supplements, if necessary.
In addition to copper, iron and zinc, there are other elements that can cause gray hair.
Some of them include:
B12 vitamin. Its deficiency may be associated with an accelerated aging process and early gray hair. Vitamin B12 is essential for the healthy formation of red blood cells and the normal functioning of the nervous system, including healthy hair.
Vitamin D It can also affect the premature appearance of gray hair. Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining healthy hair and skin.
Also read:
What can threaten vitamin D deficiency. The doctor called 6 dangerous consequences
Antioxidants. Vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin E protect the body from free radicals that damage cells and contribute to premature aging. Gray hair can be related to oxidative stress, so eating antioxidant-rich foods can help remedy the situation.
Selenium. An important mineral for healthy hair and skin. Selenium deficiency may be associated with changes in hair color and accelerated aging.
It is important to remember that the impact of these elements on the appearance of gray hair can vary depending on individual factors and genetic predisposition.
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