What are the causes and treatments of white hair?
Apr 03, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
In general, the causes of white hair may include genetics, prolonged sun exposure, nutritional deficiencies, hyperthyroidism, vitiligo, and others. These can be managed through daily lifestyle adjustments or medication. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene and engaging in moderate exercise can enhance the body's resistance and help slow down the aforementioned conditions.
Under normal circumstances, possible causes of white hair include genetics, prolonged sun exposure, nutritional deficiencies, hyperthyroidism, and vitiligo. These can be managed through daily lifestyle adjustments or medication. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Genetics: Genetic factors may impair the production or function of melanocytes, leading to white hair. If parents have gray hair, their children are more likely to develop it as well. This is usually considered a normal physiological phenomenon.
2. Prolonged Sun Exposure: Extended exposure of hair to sunlight may cause damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays can destroy melanocytes and interfere with melanin production, resulting in premature graying. Daily sun protection measures are recommended to help prevent this condition.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Hair growth and pigmentation require adequate nutritional support. A diet lacking essential nutrients such as protein, vitamin B12, iron, and copper can impair normal melanocyte function, causing hair to lose its natural color and turn white. It is advisable to consume nutrient-rich foods such as eggs, milk, and apples to help replenish these nutrients.
4. Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is a metabolic disorder that increases the body's energy consumption, affecting nutrient supply and pigment metabolism. Long-term nutritional deficiency and abnormal pigment metabolism may reduce melanin in scalp hair follicles, leading to white hair. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as carbimazole tablets, metoprolol tartrate tablets, and propylthiouracil tablets to manage the condition.
5. Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a skin disorder characterized by localized or widespread loss of skin pigmentation, which can also affect hair, causing both skin and hair to turn white. Under medical supervision, medications such as bailing tablets, qubai babuqi tablets, and methoxsalen tablets may be used to alleviate symptoms.
In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene and engaging in moderate exercise can enhance the body's immunity and help slow down the development of the above conditions.
