Going Grey In Your 20S? Here's What You Should Know About Premature Greying

Written by Kinnari Ashar15th Jul 2024
Going Grey in Your 20s? Here's What You Should Know About Premature Greying

We all expect grey hair to show up eventually, but what do you do when those silver strands start appearing in your 20s or 30s? It can be quite a shock, but you're not alone—premature greying is more common than you might think. Let's dive into what causes grey hair, bust some myths, and explore what you can actually do about it. 

What Causes Premature Greying? 

Here’s what causes white hair at early age. 

1. Genetics 

Blame it on your genes! If your parents or grandparents went grey early, chances are you might too. Genetic predisposition is one of the main reasons for premature greying

2. Stress 

We've all heard that stress can turn your hair grey. While the direct link isn’t clear, chronic stress can definitely speed up the ageing process, which includes your hair. High stress levels can lead to conditions where hair falls out and grows back grey. 

3. Nutritional Deficiencies 

Lacking essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iron, and copper? These nutrients are crucial for maintaining healthy hair, and their deficiency can lead to premature greying

4. Hormonal Changes 

Hormonal imbalances, especially thyroid issues, can mess with your hair's pigmentation. Conditions like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can sometimes lead to early greying

5. Oxidative Stress 

Environmental factors such as pollution and UV radiation can damage melanin-producing cells in your hair follicles, leading to premature greying. 

6. Smoking 

Yes, smoking can add grey hair to its long list of health hazards. The toxins in cigarettes can cause oxidative stress and damage to hair follicles, making smokers more likely to experience premature greying

Myths About Premature Greying 

1. Plucking Grey Hairs Makes More Grow Back 

This one's a classic myth. Plucking one grey hair won't cause more to sprout. Each hair follicle operates independently, so removing one won’t affect the others. 

2. Stress Directly Causes Grey Hair 

While stress can contribute to hair loss and other health problems, it doesn’t directly cause grey hair. The relationship is more complex and involves multiple factors. 

3. Hair Dyes Can Reverse Grey Hair 

Hair dyes only colour the hair temporarily. They can't reverse the biological process that causes greying. Permanent dyes can cover greys for a while but won’t stop more from appearing. 

4. Grey Hair is Stronger Than Pigmented Hair 

Grey hair might feel coarser, but it’s not because it’s stronger. It can be more fragile due to the loss of pigment and changes in hair structure, making it more prone to breakage. 

What Can You Do About Premature Greying? 

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet 

white-hair-causes

Eat your greens! Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support hair health. Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, and lean meats should be your go-to. 

2. Manage Stress 

Yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help reduce stress levels, potentially slowing down the greying process. 

3. Protect Your Hair from Damage 

Use hair products that protect against UV rays and pollution. Wearing a hat or scarf when you're out in the sun can also help protect your hair

4. Avoid Smoking 

Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and potentially slow down the greying process

5. Consider Supplements 

If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, consult with a healthcare provider about taking supplements like Vitamin B12, iron, or copper. 

Embracing Your Natural Grey 

While there are steps you can take to slow down the process, it’s important to remember that grey hair is a natural part of ageing. Many people are choosing to embrace their natural grey hair, seeing it as a sign of wisdom and maturity. If you decide to go grey gracefully, there are plenty of hair care products designed to keep grey hair looking its best. 

Premature greying can catch you off guard, but understanding the reasons behind it and how to manage it can help. Whether you decide to dye your hair or rock the grey, it’s all about what makes you feel your best. Grey hair can be just as stunning as any other colour, so embrace your unique look and enjoy the journey! 

Kinnari Ashar

Written by

A beauty and food enthusiast with a decade of writing experience, Kinnari treats her skincare routine like a sacred ritual and views a gourmet meal as a daily necessity. Balancing her time between uncovering the latest beauty trends and taste-testing culinary delights, she’s always up for trying new products or savouring a delicious dish.
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