Premature graying of hair

The document from 2013 reviews premature graying of hair, its causes, associations with diseases, and potential treatments. Premature graying, or canities, is linked to low self-esteem and social issues. It correlates with aging and may indicate autoimmune or premature aging syndromes. The condition involves a decrease in melanocyte activity in the hair bulb and is progressive and permanent, though spontaneous repigmentation has been reported. Premature graying may be associated with osteopenia and cardiovascular disease, with mixed study results. A cohort of 213 men showed an association between premature graying and coronary artery disease. Treatment options are limited, with hair coloring being the primary method, although concerns about the long-term effects of dyes exist. The document suggests that future treatments may target the biology of hair follicle melanocytes, but current evidence-based treatments for reversing graying are lacking.