ISLAMABAD: The age-old mystery of why hair turns grey has captivated human curiosity for centuries, giving rise to cultural beliefs and myths. Advancements in scientific understanding shed light on the intricacies of this natural process, offering insights into potential solutions.
The color of our hair is intricately linked to the presence of the pigment melanin, produced by melanocytes within hair follicles. The interplay of two types of melanin, Eumelanin and Pheomelanin, determines the diverse range of hair colors.
Recent research has brought attention to the impact of stress on premature greying. Stress has been associated with the release of norepinephrine and increased oxidative stress, potentially damaging melanocytic stem cells and influencing hair color. While aging remains an inevitable factor, certain elements such as vitamin deficiencies and underlying medical conditions can hasten the greying process.
How to Avoid Hair Turning Grey
One common method to address greying temporarily is hair dyeing. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins D, B12, and E, along with minerals like iron and copper, may contribute to oxidative stress and expedite the greying process. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes avoiding smoking and adopting stress-alleviating activities such as exercise or meditation, is recommended for overall hair health.
While numerous products claim to slow down the greying process, their efficacy often lacks rigorous scientific validation. Natural therapies advocating for antioxidant-rich diets and essential oils remain uncertain in their impact on preventing or reversing greying.
