Will plucking white hairs cause more to grow?
Sep 08, 2020
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
Do white hairs multiply if plucked? If only a few white hairs appear, plucking them will not cause more to grow. Removing white hairs has no effect on other hairs. Generally, the appearance of white hair is associated with melanin granules. The growth of black hair primarily depends on melanocytes located at the hair root.
White hair refers to hair that has turned completely or partially white. The development of white hair results from a reduction or absence of melanin granules in the hair’s medulla and cortex—often replaced by air pockets. This phenomenon may arise from either congenital (inherited) or acquired (environmental or physiological) causes. White hair appears when melanin production in the dermal papilla and hair bulb is impaired, or when melanin, though produced, fails to be transported into the hair shaft due to certain factors—leading to diminished or absent melanin granules in the medulla and cortex.
Does plucking white hairs cause more to grow?
If only a few white hairs appear, plucking them will not cause an increase in their number. Removing white hairs does not affect surrounding hairs. Generally, white hair formation is associated with reduced melanin granule production. In elderly individuals, newly grown hair after plucking will typically remain white. Melanocytes located at the hair root are primarily responsible for producing pigment in black hair.
With advancing age, melanocytes at the base of the hair follicle gradually cease or reduce melanin synthesis, resulting in white hair. Normal hair appears black due to the presence of melanin granules; white hair lacks these granules entirely. Additionally, forcibly plucking white hairs is discouraged. Although plucking does not increase the number of white hairs, it can damage the hair root—and excessive plucking may even trigger folliculitis.
Causes of white hair
1. Psychological factors
Prolonged states of anxiety, tension, or depression can disrupt cerebral blood circulation and internal homeostasis, potentially causing headaches, dizziness, and premature graying.
2. Poor nutritional status
Chronic dietary deficiencies in copper, cobalt, iron, protein, plant oils, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and vitamin B6 may contribute to hair turning gray or white.
3. Disease, medications, and genetics
Endocrine disorders—including hypopituitarism and hyperthyroidism—as well as chronic debilitating conditions such as tuberculosis, typhoid fever, pernicious anemia, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, may all contribute to premature graying.
The above addresses the question of whether plucking white hairs leads to increased growth. We hope this information proves helpful.
