We have covered the topic of premature greying before however, this time it is more science-based to help us understand the topic even more. Premature greying is experienced by a greater number of younger populations these days and slowly the age limit keeps reducing. Research states that earlier the average age limit of people experiencing premature greying was 30 but now, it is observed in a younger crowd in their 20s. The causes of premature greying are multiple and vast so we will break it down into simple terms so each one of you can fully comprehend it. But worry not! We also have in store for you, some tips to prevent falling victim to premature greying of hair and let the lush black hair thrive in peace.

Recent Studies on the Causes of Premature Greying of Hair and Early Prevention

Causes of Premature Greying of Hair:

1. DEFICIENCIES

Any deficiencies of vitamin B-6, B-12, biotin, vitamin D, or vitamin E can contribute to premature graying. In a study, it was found that low levels of serum ferritin, which stores iron in the body, vitamin B-12, and the good cholesterol HDL-C were common in participants with premature hair graying.

2. OXIDATIVE STRESS

Oxidative stress caused by external factors like pollution, UV rays or emotional trauma is another reason for premature greying in young adults. Oxidative stress causes imbalances when antioxidants are not enough to counteract the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage cells, contributing to aging and disease.

3. UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Some medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases, may increase a person’s risk for graying early. Thyroid disease, vitiligo, pernicious anemia and alopecia areata are some of the conditions that may influence premature greying.

4. STRESS AND SMOKING

Hypertension, stress, and anxiety are leading causes of premature greying of hair. Also, the hair you lose due to a stressful event, such as chemotherapy, may grow back grey. Smoking leads to free radicals being formed in the body. These free radicals cause oxidative stress, leading to decreased melanin, which promotes greying of hair.

5. TOXINS AND CHEMICALS IN HAIR PRODUCTS

Chemical hair dyes and hair products, even shampoos, can contribute to premature hair graying. Many of these products contain harmful ingredients that decrease melanin. Melanin is the pigment which gives color to our hair. Lack of melanin is one of the biggest reasons for premature greying. Hydrogen peroxide, which is in many hair dyes, is one such harmful chemical. Excessive use of products that bleach hair will also eventually cause it to turn white.

Early Prevention of Premature Greying:

1. NATURAL HAIR AND BODY CARE

• We know that one of the biggest reasons your hair is going grey before its time is because of the products you use. All those parabens and sulfates are not doing your mane any favors, so the alternative is to use natural, non-toxic hair products.
• You can replace bottled shampoo with reetha (soapnuts) and shikakai. Natural hair cleansing powders made of amla, shikakai and reetha provide deep cleansing.
• Instead of conditioner, opt for pure oils which nourish your hair from inside out.
• We know that hair dyes are the biggest contributors of premature greying thus, to prevent damage but also get lush black hair color, use indigo and henna as a natural hair dye.
• Mustard seed oil helps darken your hair with regular use.
• Another natural product that works excellently to cleanse, condition and nourish hair is honey. Apple cider vinegar makes for a great natural conditioner and is very effective.

2. NUTRITION

• Since nutritional deficiencies are a major reason for premature greying, it makes sense to give your diet a good look.
• Healthy hair requires the following vitamins: Biotin, B-12, A, D, E and the following minerals: zinc, iron, copper, magnesium and selenium. To get all these nutrients, ensure your diet contains enough quantities of the following foods – whole grains, broccoli, beetroots, green leafy vegetables, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, eggs, seafood, meat and dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt.
• In order to fight oxidative stress due to pollution and other causes, we need enough catalase and antioxidants. Catalase is an enzyme that plays an important role in protecting our cells from oxidative damage. It can be found in foods like almonds, garlic, kale, broccoli, cabbage and sweet potato.
• Antioxidants can be found in grapes, berries and green tea.

3. SCALP MASSAGE

Ayurveda recognizes certain ‘marma’ points on the head, the massaging of each of which yields specific benefits. Done right, a scalp massage can remove toxins, stimulate the hormones and promote hair growth.

4. HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Following a healthy lifestyle cures almost all of your problems. May it be premature greying or anything else, living healthy makes it all easier for you. So, what does healthy lifestyle include? Of course, a balanced diet is a part of it but even more important is staying fit. Yoga and any other form of exercise releases endorphins and serotonin in your body. These are feel-good chemicals which, as the name suggests, make you feel good about yourself and your surroundings. Once you have a clear perspective, there’s no room for stress!

When it comes to premature greying, the reasons can be numerous. Premature greying these days can be triggered by stress, eating habits and of course, the pollution makes things difficult for hair to survive. The only way to get out of this loop is by embracing nature as our own. Nature has solutions to all your problems and by inculcating those values in your daily practices, you can ward off any disease in a blink of eye. You must always focus on your health first and to be in good health, you need good products which are all-natural, organic and made to fix all your concerns.

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