Three Streams for the Mechanism of Hair Graying

January 2018 in “ Annals of dermatology/Annals of Dermatology ”

Seong Kyeong Jo, Ji Yeon Lee, Young Lee, Chang Deok Kim, Jeung‐Hoon Lee

oxidative stress melanocytes genetic predisposition melanocyte function melanocyte stem cell depletion hair bulge pigment production

TLDR Hair graying may be caused by stem cell depletion from stress or melanocyte damage.

The document "Three Streams for the Mechanism of Hair Graying" discussed the biological processes behind hair graying, focusing on oxidative stress, genetic factors, and the decline in melanocyte function. Oxidative stress was highlighted as a significant contributor, damaging melanocytes responsible for pigment production. Genetic predisposition also played a crucial role, with certain genes influencing the onset and progression of graying. The natural aging process led to a reduction in melanocyte activity and number, further contributing to hair color loss. The review concluded that melanocyte stem cell depletion in the hair bulge is closely associated with hair graying, and while re-activation of remaining cells can sometimes restore pigmentation, the primary cause of stem cell depletion remains uncertain.

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