TLDR Grey hair is wilder, drier, and less manageable than pigmented hair.
The study investigated changes in hair fibers with loss of pigmentation in a photoprotected population, specifically Old Order Mennonites who avoid chemical treatments and limit sun exposure. The research focused on comparing pigmented and unpigmented hair fibers in terms of elemental composition, mechanical properties, and moisture uptake. While few global differences were found between pigmented and unpigmented hair across the population, individual differences were noted, particularly in bulk properties rather than surface properties. These findings supported the perception that grey hair is wilder, drier, and less manageable, aligning with consumer complaints about grey hair.
210 citations
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May 2006 in “The FASEB journal” Oxidative stress causes hair to gray by damaging and killing pigment cells.
99 citations
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June 2005 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Hair ages due to genetics and environmental factors, leading to graying and thinning, with treatments available for some conditions.
9 citations
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March 2005 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” The torsional method effectively evaluates hair damage and the performance of hair care ingredients.
450 citations
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January 2005 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” Hair color is determined by melanin produced and transferred in hair follicles.
152 citations
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December 2003 in “Micron” As people age, their hair follicles produce less pigment, leading to gray and white hair, due to factors like reduced enzyme activity and damage to melanocyte DNA.
10 citations
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December 2001 in “PubMed” The conclusion is that substances can penetrate hair fibers through multiple pathways, including both the cell membrane complex and the non-keratinous parts.
47 citations
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January 2013 in “International Journal of Cosmetic Science” Hair diversity is influenced by complex genetics and environmental factors, requiring more research for practical solutions.
February 2026 in “American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (Global Society of Scientific Research and Researchers)” Gray hair requires special coloring techniques and care to maintain quality and strength.
20 citations
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May 2020 in “Experimental Dermatology” Aging scalp skin contributes to hair aging and loss, and more research is needed to develop better hair loss treatments.
November 2019 in “Harper's Textbook of Pediatric Dermatology” Understanding normal hair growth and loss in children is key to diagnosing and treating hair disorders.
Dermal stem cells help regenerate hair follicles and heal skin wounds.
