TLDR Hair greying is seen as a sign of aging; temporary fixes like hair dye are used, but a balanced diet and hair care can help manage it.
The document discusses the common perception of hair greying as a sign of aging and unattractiveness, leading people to seek temporary remedies such as hair coloring or medications to restore hair color. However, these solutions are short-lived due to the gradual decrease in melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. The document notes that men experience greying faster than women and highlights the role of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in melanin production, indicating that both hypo- and hyperthyroid states can lead to greying. Additionally, postmenopausal changes can affect hair growth and greying. The recommended management includes a balanced diet, adequate vitamin intake, limited sun exposure, and regular hair lubrication with oil.
26 citations
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January 2018 in “Annals of dermatology/Annals of Dermatology” Hair graying may be caused by stem cell depletion from stress or melanocyte damage.
36 citations
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November 2016 in “European journal of dermatology/EJD. European journal of dermatology” Some medications can cause rare hair color changes, and reporting these side effects is important for patient quality of life.
84 citations
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April 2015 in “Cosmetics” Hair dyes vary in how long they last and how deeply they penetrate hair.
47 citations
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January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Premature graying of hair may suggest health issues and currently lacks effective treatments.
7 citations
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January 2009 in “BMJ Case Reports” Gefitinib can cause slower, finer, brittle, and curly scalp hair.
115 citations
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August 2008 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” Thyroid hormones help hair grow, reduce hair loss, and increase hair pigment.
6 citations
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January 2007 in “Actas dermo-sifiliográficas/Actas dermo-sifiliográficas” Gray hair regained color after thyroid hormone treatment.
9 citations
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July 2020 in “Experimental Dermatology” Topical L-thyroxine may help with wound healing and hair growth but should be used short-term due to potential risks.
5 citations
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January 2023 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Hair follicles could be used to noninvasively monitor our body's internal clock and help identify risks for related diseases.
Premature graying of hair is linked to vitamin D and B12 deficiencies, thyroid issues, iron imbalance, stress, and lifestyle habits, and affects quality of life.
