You Found A Grey Hair...What Caused It And Now What?

 

As we grow older, one of the most visible signs of aging is the gradual appearance of grey hair. While some may see it as an unwanted reminder of advancing age, grey hair is a natural part of aging. This article will explore the science behind greying hair - looking at how our hair gets its colour, what biological factors cause the pigment loss that leads to greying, and whether it can be prevented or reversed.

We'll discuss topics like:

  • Melanin - the pigment that gives hair its colour

  • The hair growth cycle

  • Melanocyte stem cells - specialized cells that produce melanin

  • Oxidative stress - damage by free radicals

  • Myths vs. facts about premature greying

  • Whether greying can be prevented or reversed

By the end, you'll have a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms behind greying hair and tips for embracing grey locks as a mark of distinction.

How Hair Pigmentation Works

Let's dive into the science behind how our hair gets its pigmentation in the first place. It all comes down to a pigment called melanin. This fascinating compound is produced by special cells called melanocytes that live in our hair follicles.

When a new hair strand grows, these melanocytes pump it full of melanin, which gives it colour. Folks with brown or black hair have hair follicles that churn out a ton of eumelanin. Blondes and redheads have mostly pheomelanin.

Now, melanocytes don't live forever. As we age, the melanocyte stem cells in our hair follicles start to fizzle out. It's just like how other stem cells in our body wear out over time. Each old melanocyte can only reproduce so many times before it goes kaput.

Our hair becomes gray when there aren't enough fresh melanocytes to produce melanin. It's a natural part of the hair growth cycle - our bodies just run low on those pigment-producing cells after decades of use.

Some key points:

  • Melanin is the magical pigment that colours hair

  • Melanocytes in follicles pump out melanin

  • Over time, melanocyte stem cells decrease and die off

  • Low melanocyte count causes less melanin production

  • The result: hair grows without pigment = gray strands

It's pretty nifty biology, even if it means we go a little grayer yearly. At least we can rock the distinguished salt-and-pepper look. Let me know if you need any clarification or want me to modify this section.

The Greying Process

Now that we've got melanin and melanocytes down pat let's look at how they fit into the step-by-step greying process.

Melanocyte Stem Cell Decline

As discussed earlier, our melanocyte stem cells decrease as we age. By the time we hit 30, we've already used up about 10-20% of the melanocytes we were born with.

The melanocyte decline speeds up significantly after age 30. That's why by the time we hit 50, about 50% of our hair has gone gray. Get into your 70s and 80s, and only about 10-20% of original melanocytes are still kicking.

Hair Follicles Lose Pigment

With fewer melanocytes, the hair follicles produce less melanin. Each new hair strand that grows in is exposed to less and less pigment. The result? More gray hairs popping up on our heads.

Oxidative Stress

Besides natural melanocyte decline, oxidative stress can also accelerate greying. Free radical damage to melanocyte DNA can knock down melanin synthesis. Things like pollution, smoking, and even sun exposure can ramp up oxidative stress.

Genetics

Of course, our genetic makeup also plays a role in the greying game. Folks with certain hereditary factors will start to go gray earlier than others. But no matter what, greying is inevitable as we age.

Myth vs. Fact on Premature Greying

Lots of myths exist about what causes premature greying of hair. Let's separate fact from fiction:

Myth: Stress and emotional trauma can quickly turn your hair gray.

Fact: Stress alone won't directly cause greying. However, chronic stress can accelerate hair greying through increased oxidative damage. Managing stress is still good for overall health!

Myth: Poor nutrition, like vitamin deficiencies, leads to premature greying.

Fact: No foods or vitamins have been proven to reverse or prevent greying. That said, eating a well-balanced diet supports healthy hair by providing vital nutrients.

Myth: Plucking out one gray hair causes more to grow.

Fact: This is entirely false. Plucking hair does not alter the biology of your melanocyte stem cells or impact the greying process.

Myth: Using hair dyes to cover Grey causes more greying.

Fact: Hair dye ingredients don't influence melanin production or speed up greying. However, the chemicals can damage hair health over time.

Myth: Premature Greying only affects the elderly.

Fact: While uncommon, greying can begin as early as the late teens and 20s for some. It's usually hereditary.

The bottom line is that greying is a natural part of aging caused by melanin loss. While genetics and oxidative stress play roles, no lifestyle factors can overcome biology. Embrace your greys!

Can Greying Be Prevented or Reversed?

Now that we know the science behind greying, the next obvious question is - can it be prevented or reversed? Let's dig into some possible options.

Prevention

While we can't change our genetics, certain lifestyle measures may help slow the greying process:

  • Reduce oxidative stress by avoiding smoking, wearing sunscreen, and eating antioxidants.

  • Lower inflammation, which can damage melanocytes. An anti-inflammatory diet and stress management help.

  • Some early research suggests supplements like catalase and melatonin may support melanocyte health. More study is needed.

However, these measures only delay the inevitable greying but cannot fully prevent it.

Reversal

True reversal of grey hair back to its original colour is highly unlikely for a variety of reasons:

  • Lost melanocytes don't regenerate. New ones would need to be stimulated in the follicle to restart melanin synthesis.

  • Most proposed "cures," like supplements and LED lights, lack scientific evidence. Any reversal seen is temporary.

  • Once enough melanocytes die off, the hair growth cycle is permanently altered to favour greying strands.

Gradual Transition

Rather than hope for reversal, focus on gracefully transitioning to grey hair through subtle colouring and styling adjustments over time. Work closely with a stylist to find the right look for you!

Embracing the Grey

As we've learned, greying is an inevitable part of aging we can't always control. Rather than fight it, the healthiest mindset is to embrace grey hair as a badge of honour. 

Here are some tips:

  • Flaunt those silver strands: Let your greys grow in instead of constantly colouring to conceal them. Give your hair texture and dimension with a trendy salt-and-pepper style.

  • Experiment with highlights: Ask your colorist for subtle grey blending with lowlights and highlights for a gradual transition. Go for a gloss to reduce yellowing.

  • Care for those fragile grays: Invest in a hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed specifically for grey hair. Avoid over-washing and heat styling to prevent breakage.

  • Update your look: Get a chic new haircut that complements and frames your face as you transition from colour to grey hair. An edgy pixie or classic bob are timeless options.

  • Fake it 'til you make it: Try clip-in grey extensions for special occasions before fully committing. It's a fun way to preview the look.

Remember, grey hair is associated with attractiveness, distinction, and wisdom. Embrace this next phase in your life story with pride in who you are and all you've experienced.

Conclusion

We've covered a lot of ground on the science behind greying hair and how to embrace the transition gracefully. While greying is inevitable, there are still ways to optimize your hair health and make the most of your new salt-and-pepper strands.

Here are some key tips to remember:

  • Greying happens when melanocyte stem cells in hair follicles decrease over time. Genetics and oxidative stress also contribute.

  • No lifestyle measures can fully prevent or reverse greying, but self-care can help slow the process. Focus on reducing inflammation and protecting hair from damage.

  • Work closely with your colorist to gradually blend in your new growth through highlights, lowlights and glosses. Or boldly let those grays grow out!

  • Maintain the shine and moisture of grey hair with hydrating products free from sulphates and parabens. Massage the scalp to increase blood flow.

  • Get creative with your hair - whether colour blending, a short style to show off texture, extensions for a trial run, or fully embracing the freedom of natural grey.

We hope this guide gave you a helpful overview of the greying process and tips to transition gracefully on your terms. For personalized advice on optimizing your grey hair care routine and look, please schedule a consultation with our master colorist stylists at Salon Haze today!

FAQ On Grey Hair

What is melanin, and how does it give hair its colour?

Melanin is a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes that gives hair its colour. There are two types of melanin - eumelanin, which produces black/brown hair, and pheomelanin, which produces red/blonde hair. [5]

The ratio and quantity of these melanins determine someone's natural hair colour.

At what age do most people start going grey?

Most people start going grey in their mid-30s to mid-40s. However, it can happen earlier or later, depending on genetics, ethnicity, stress, and other factors. [2] [3]

What genetic factors contribute to greying hair?

Genes play a major role in determining when someone will go grey. If your parents went grey early, you likely will, too. Specific genes like IRF4, Bcl2, and Bcl-w have been identified that control hair greying [4] [5]

Does stress really cause premature greying?

While not a direct cause, stress can accelerate greying in predisposed individuals. Stress increases oxidative damage, which can impair melanin production and cause premature greying. [2] [6]

Can poor diet or vitamin deficiencies lead to earlier greying?

Yes, nutritional deficiencies in vitamin B12, vitamin D, copper, and iron can contribute to low melanin levels and greying. Antioxidant-rich diets help reduce greying caused by oxidative stress. [2] [3]

How do autoimmune disorders impact hair pigmentation?

Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata, vitiligo, and pernicious anemia can destroy melanin-producing cells or inhibit melanin production, leading to patchy greying or complete whitening. [3] [6]

Is greying reversible through natural remedies?

While some alternative remedies claim to reverse greying, there is no scientific evidence that greying can be permanently reversed once it has started. However, reducing stress and improving diet may slow the process. [3]

What is the best way to transition to grey hair?

Letting grey hairs grow out naturally, using temporary root touch-up products, getting lowlights/highlights, using purple shampoos to reduce yellowing, and using styling products to blend greys are good ways to transition gracefully. [3]

How can I prevent the yellowing of my grey hair?

Using purple or blue-tinted shampoos and conditioners a few times a week can neutralize yellow tones and keep grey hair looking bright and natural. [3]

Salon Haze is an award-winning hair salon in Vancouver, Kitsilano area. We are specialists in colour and style. If you are considering a new colour or style for your hair, contact us, and we’ll talk you through all the options to ensure your choice of colour reflects your personality and complexion.

Call today for a free consultation with one of our stylists. We have the best hairdressers and the best hair colourists in Vancouver. Call now at 604-620-9986 or email us at service@salonhaze.com.

 
David McAlinden