What are the causes of increased white hair?
Apr 03, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
In general, increased white hair may be caused by aging, excessive fatigue, malnutrition, kidney yin deficiency, vitiligo, and other factors. As people age, melanocytes in the hair follicles gradually decrease, which may lead to hair losing its color and turning gray. In daily life, it is advisable to avoid frequent use of hair dryers and chemical hair dyes to prevent accelerating hair aging and damage.
In general, increased white hair may be caused by aging, excessive fatigue, malnutrition, kidney yin deficiency, vitiligo, and other factors. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging: As people age, melanocytes in the hair follicles gradually decrease, which may cause hair to lose color and turn gray or white. This is a natural part of the aging process and does not negatively impact health.
2. Excessive Fatigue: Prolonged physical overexertion or excessive mental stress can lead to hormonal imbalances in the body, inhibiting melanin production in hair follicles and resulting in increased white hair. It is advisable to maintain adequate rest and avoid heavy physical labor and excessive stress in daily life.
3. Malnutrition: A lack of essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc in the daily diet may lead to malnutrition, which can impair hair growth and affect melanin synthesis, thereby increasing the occurrence of white hair. It is recommended to consume more nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits.
4. Kidney Yin Deficiency: The kidneys are considered the foundation of innate constitution in traditional Chinese medicine. Yin deficiency indicates insufficient kidney yin, which may impair normal physiological functions, including hair health. Therefore, the above condition might be a manifestation of kidney yin deficiency. Under medical guidance, medications such as Liuwei Dihuang Pills, Dabuyin Pills, or Shensong Yangxin Capsules may be used for treatment.
5. Vitiligo: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks melanocytes, leading to loss of pigment in the skin and hair. This condition may impair melanin production in scalp areas, thus promoting the development of white hair. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Bailing Tablets, Methoxsalen Tablets, or Qubai Babuqi Tablets to help manage the condition.
In daily life, avoid frequent use of hair dryers and chemical hair dyes to prevent accelerating hair aging and damage.
