Premature greying is the greying or whitening of hair before the expected age, and it is both a cosmetic and a dermatological concern. The medical term for it is premature canities, and it can affect people in their teenage years or their twenties.
Hair greys when the follicles stop producing melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour. The ability to produce melanin naturally diminishes with age, but in premature greying this decline happens earlier than expected.
What are the causes of premature greying?
There can be several contributing causes.
- Family history: Genetics is one of the most common causes. The genes control the lifespan of the melanocytes in hair and determine when they stop functioning normally.
- Poor diet: A lack of essential nutrients — including vitamin D3, vitamin B12, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, and protein — affects the follicles' ability to produce melanin, so hair can begin to lose its colour.
- Stress: Excess production of cortisol, the stress hormone, can reduce melanin production and affect hair's natural colour, particularly when hormone levels spike.
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as hypothyroidism and autoimmune disorders like vitiligo can cause greying. Low thyroid hormone affects melanocyte function, while in vitiligo the immune system attacks the melanocytes in the hair follicles.
- Chemical exposure: Exposing hair to harsh chemicals in haircare products is another common cause.
- Alcohol and cigarettes: Excessive alcohol and smoking are linked to greying. The chemicals involved create oxidative stress, disrupting tissue ageing and reducing melanin production.
What are the treatment options for premature greying?
Premature greying is difficult to treat, and there is currently no medical treatment that can permanently restore colour to the hair. However, you may be able to manage the condition in the following ways.
- Try to identify the root cause. If an underlying condition or a vitamin deficiency is affecting hair colour, treating it may improve the appearance of your hair.
- You may choose hair dyes after discussing them with the dermatologist. They are a popular way to conceal greying, though periodic touch-ups are needed.
Honest expectations and expert care
Greying is a normal part of ageing and there is nothing wrong with it, but if it affects your self-esteem the methods above can help you manage it. At Derma Essence, assessment is led by Dr. Reena Sharma (MD Dermatology). For related concerns, see our hair fall in men or vitiligo treatment pages.
Book a consultation for a personalised assessment.
