What Are The Reasons For Your Grey Hair At An Early Age? Expert Explains

Premature graying, often known as gray hair at an early age, is a problem that can afflict people in their twenties and thirties and is concerning from both a cosmetic and possibly health standpoint. Some people may find it difficult to accept their prematurely aged appearance, while others may welcome their gray hair as a symbol of experience and wisdom.

There are several potential causes that contribute to premature graying, including lifestyle decisions, genetics, and environmental variables. While certain people are predisposed to gray hair earlier in life due to genetics, other factors such as stress, smoking, poor diet, and vitamin deficiencies can hasten the process. Also, there may be a connection between premature graying and specific medical diseases like vitiligo or thyroid issues.

Factors like stress, smoking, poor diet, and vitamin deficiencies are some of the reasons why it happens. (Image Credit: Canva)

It's also important to keep in mind that the early onset of gray hair is a normal aspect of aging, and for those who would like to address it, there are a number of solutions accessible, such as hair dyes and going with the natural look.

Dr. Nandini Baruah, who is a consultant in dermatology at Max Multi Speciality Centre in Panchsheel Park, exclusively told Jagran English about the reasons for your gray hair at an early age.

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Dr. Nandini said, "Although the primary cause of premature hair graying (PHG) is considered to be genetic, certain environmental factors also play a role. Trace element deficiencies such as vitamin B12, vitamin D3, and calcium may also be associated with PHG. Hair is important to an individual's physical appearance and self-perception. Aging of the hair follicle refers to reduced melanocyte function and decreased hair production. Hair graying is a natural age-associated feature. The term premature hair graying (PHG) is used when it occurs before the age of 20 in whites, 25 in Asians, and 30 in Africans. Although the primary cause of PHG may be genetic, studies have also reported the role of autoimmune disorders, smoking, and trace element deficiencies."

There are several potential causes that contribute to premature graying, including lifestyle decisions, genetics, and environmental variables. (Image Credit: Canva)

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At last, she said, "Furthermore, the association of sedentary lifestyle and irregular food habits with PHG was also assessed. Few studies have also reported that environmental factors (such as ultraviolet light and climate), smoking, drugs, deficiencies of trace elements, and nutritional deficiencies also play a role in PHG. Today’s young generation has irregular food habits and skips meals, leading to deficiencies in the body and premature graying of the hair. Stress is also another cause of PHG. Try to keep the stress to a minimum by taking regular meals (a balanced diet), meditation, a daily light workout, and proper sleep."