TLDR Smoking and alcohol are linked to early hair graying.
A study conducted in Lagos State, Nigeria, involving 259 participants, investigated the factors related to premature canities (graying of hair). The research found no significant association between premature canities and ABO blood type, rhesus factor, or genotype. However, lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol intake were associated with premature canities. The study also noted that smoking and alcohol consumption were more prevalent among males, and there was a negative association between depression and both non-premature and premature canities. While nutrition intake was generally similar, differences were observed in high carbohydrate and vegetable consumption.
January 2024 in “GeroScience” Using radiation to make mice's hair turn gray helps study and find ways to prevent or reverse hair graying.
2 citations
,
March 2023 in “Journal of Nepal Medical Association” Many young medical students have early grey hair, especially males, often linked to family history.
January 2022 in “Indian journal of paediatric dermatology” Children with early graying hair might have lower levels of certain nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and Vitamin B12.
7 citations
,
July 2020 in “Dermatologic therapy” Premature graying of hair is linked to various health issues and can sometimes be reversed by treating underlying conditions.
12 citations
,
May 2019 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” Effective treatments for premature hair graying still require significant research.
16 citations
,
January 2017 in “DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals)” Low levels of vitamin B12 and ferritin are linked to early hair graying.
16 citations
,
January 2018 in “International journal of trichology” Genetics and nutritional deficiencies are key factors in premature graying of hair.
June 2025 in “Clinical Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Gray hair can potentially be managed or reversed with treatments that boost melanin production and address nutritional deficiencies.
January 2020 in “Asian journal of applied science and technology” Good nutrition is crucial for health and preventing disease, and supplements can help prevent nutrient deficiencies.
January 2017 in “Springer eBooks” The document explains various skin conditions and their treatments.
7 citations
,
December 2018 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Eating vegetarian, having allergies, and family history might be linked to getting gray hair early.
