Gray hair can occur even in young people. In some cases, this is a natural process, while in others, it is a sign of diseases. How to understand the causes of early graying? This is explained by endocrinologist Yulia Sidorina.
The color of hair is determined by the amount of melanin—a pigment produced in the melanocyte cells located in hair follicles. When melanin production ceases, hair loses its color and turns gray.
With age, melanin production decreases, so gray hair often becomes a sign of natural aging changes. Typically, the first gray hairs appear at the age of 25-30. For representatives of the Mongoloid and Caucasoid races, early graying is considered the appearance of gray hair before the age of 25, while for the Negroid race, it is before the age of 30.
According to statistics, men start to gray earlier than women. In men, the first gray hairs appear in the beard and temples, while in women, they appear in the occipital and parietal areas of the head.
What can cause early graying?
The main factors include hormonal imbalances (for example, disorders in the thyroid gland or pituitary gland), diseases of the digestive system, autoimmune diseases, as well as deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements (such as zinc, copper, iron, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin D). An increased need for these substances may arise during pregnancy and lactation, as well as when taking certain medications that affect the metabolism of vitamins and trace elements.
An unfavorable environmental situation (prolonged exposure to electromagnetic waves or ultraviolet light), working in harmful industries, or in harsh climatic conditions can also provoke early graying.
A lack of protein negatively affects melanin production, so early graying may be a consequence of strict diets or vegetarianism.
Can stress be a cause of early graying?
During periods of stress, hormones cortisol and adrenaline are released into the blood, leading to vasospasm, worsening blood circulation, and nutrition of hair follicles. Additionally, stress contributes to the formation of free radicals, which can damage melanocytes.
When is early graying considered normal?
Genetics plays an important role in the appearance of gray hair. Therefore, early gray hair may be normal for those whose parents also grayed early.
How to prevent the appearance of gray hair?
It is important to ensure adequate sleep (at least 7 hours), engage in physical activity, and maintain a balanced diet (the diet should contain enough protein). It is recommended to consume foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins (dairy products, meat, seafood and fish, nuts, avocados, flaxseed and olive oil). It is also necessary to drink enough water.
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