What causes gray hair to turn white, and how can it be treated?
May 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
"Yin hair" usually refers to pubic hair. Whitening of pubic hair may result from non-disease factors, but it could also be associated with certain medical conditions such as vitiligo, poliosis, albinism, localized leukoderma, or pernicious anemia. It is recommended to visit a gynecology department at a hospital as early as possible. If another underlying condition is suspected, the gynecologist will refer you to the appropriate specialty department. Once the cause is identified, follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.
Genital whitening usually refers to pubic hair. Whitening of pubic hair may result from non-disease factors, or could be related to certain medical conditions such as vitiligo or poliosis. It is recommended to obtain a clear diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Non-disease factors
In daily life, stressful events, nutritional deficiencies, mental stress, or taking certain medications may lead to changes in the color of pubic hair. Identifying and eliminating the underlying causes is recommended, and specific treatment is usually not required. Similar to scalp hair, pubic hair may turn white with aging due to reduced melanin in hair follicles, commonly occurring in middle-aged and elderly individuals over 40 years old.
2. Disease-related factors
1) Vitiligo
If vitiligo affects the genital area, the skin in the affected region turns white, and melanin in the hair follicles may decrease or disappear, causing the hair to turn white as well. It is recommended to apply topical medications such as clobetasol propionate cream, hydrocortisone triamcinolone acetonide ointment, or fluorouracil cream under medical supervision. Treatment options may also include ultraviolet laser therapy or skin grafting surgery.
2) Poliosis (premature graying)
The exact cause of poliosis has not been fully clarified. Due to pigment loss in the hair shaft, the hair eventually turns white. Appropriate massage to promote blood circulation is recommended. If necessary, consult a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) department and follow medical advice for herbal调理 (regulation/treatment).
In addition, albinism, localized leukoderma, pernicious anemia, and other conditions may also cause the above symptoms. It is recommended to seek early evaluation at a hospital gynecology department. If another condition is suspected, the gynecologist will refer you to the appropriate specialty department. Once the cause is identified, follow the doctor's instructions for treatment.
