Biology of Hair Pigmentation and Its Role in Premature Canities
January 2017
in “
Pigment International
”
TLDR Early hair graying is often inherited and influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle, but treatment options are limited.
The document explored the biology of hair pigmentation and premature canities, or early hair graying, highlighting that it often occurred without underlying pathology but could be inherited. It examined the roles of melanin types, genetic and environmental factors, trace metals, vitamins, oxidative stress, and lifestyle influences like smoking and stress. A Graying Severity Score (GSS) was introduced to assess canities severity. Historical treatments like P-aminobenzoic acid were temporarily effective, while newer approaches included UV protection through hair dyes and compounds like cinnamidopropyltrimonium chloride. Anti-aging compounds such as melatonin and melitane showed potential benefits. Despite increased interest, treatment options were limited and lacked standardized evaluation guidelines.
