Biology of Hair Pigmentation and Its Role in Premature Canities
January 2017
in “
Pigment International
”
New to Melatonin? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This article reviews the pathogenesis and treatment approaches for premature graying of hair, noting the unsatisfactory options currently available, and reports no new clinical findings. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
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.
