Like wrinkles, gray hairs are a visible sign of ageing, but can the way you treat your hair keep it youthful in the same way that skin care can?
Gray hair is a combination of normally pigmented hair interspersed with white ones. Hair turn white when the pigmentation cells responsible for color (melanin) stop being produced.
What are The Causes of Gray Hair?
Nutritional and hormonal factors can affect hair color as well as stress, but, by and large, the predisposition to go gray earlier or later in life is genetic.
Genetics
Yes, this is one thing you can certainly blame on your parents, and they, in turn, can most likely blame it on theirs. It is scientifically proven that premature graying of hair is mostly genetic in nature. So if your parents experienced the same issues and spotted their grays early, chances are, you will do the same as well.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Another important reason that leads to premature gray hair is the deficiency of Vitamin B12. The absence or lack of this vitamin allows the graying process to happen faster and earlier. Because of this, the gray hair begins showing up at a much younger age than would otherwise have happened.
Thyroid Problems and Health Issues
If you have been diagnosed with any major illness or are suffering from some health issue over a prolonged period, then you can expect to see some premature grays.
Lack of Nutrition
Being healthy is all about eating healthy and eating right. What you eat is what you will see, on your skin, on your hair, and on your overall health. The right kind of diet will give you all the nutrients that your body needs to function properly. If you are fit and healthy, your hair too will show the signs. And this will also help in postponing the advent of the gray hair.
Stress Causes Gray Hair
It is a known fact that the more amount of stress you have, the higher the chances of your health getting affected. Those who are prone to getting stressed show signs of premature hair graying earlier than others of their age.
Smoking
If you have not been able to give up smoking, time to start thinking. Studies have proven that those who smoke stand four times higher chance of facing premature graying than those who don’t. Each time we see a new hair it’s equally frustrating, isn’t it? Of course, you can’t help it if it’s happening due to genetics, or some medical issues. But for all the other causes, you can surely try and postpone the appearance of grays. Take care of yourself, stay fit and stay happy.
What are the Ways to Prevent the Premature Graying of Hair?
Reduce Stress
If you experience change in your hair color at an early age, learn to manage stress. Meditate, get into an activity, or practice your favorite hobby to reduce stress.
Eat Right
To eat right is the key. Pack in a lot of protein as your hair and nails are made up of a protein- Keratin. Add spinach, dairy products such as cheese, milk, butter, etc.
Quit Smoking
If you have the habit of smoking, quit it right away. Cigarettes are known to contain carcinogens or cancer causing elements that affect your hair follicles too.
Check Your Thyroid Levels
People with thyroid malfunctions – hyper or low secretions, are prone to graying of hair.
Quit Harsher Shampoos
Switch to mild shampoos. The harsh chemicals in the shampoos and conditioner are known to hair fall too.
Oil Your Hair
Sometimes, the dry, dehydrated hair gives way to graying of hair as there is a loss of moisture too. Oil your hair at least twice a week to see a better hair condition.