What causes hair loss and premature graying?

Hair loss and premature graying may generally be caused by factors such as genetics, malnutrition, scalp folliculitis, anemia, and vitiligo. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Genetics: Genetic factors play a significant role in hair health. If there is a family history of hair loss or premature graying, individuals are at increased risk of developing these conditions.

2. Malnutrition: This may be related to poor dietary habits or picky eating, which can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as B vitamins, copper, iron, and zinc. As a result, hair may not receive adequate nutritional support, leading to symptoms like hair loss and premature graying. In daily life, consuming foods such as spinach, lettuce, and chicken liver in moderation may help alleviate these symptoms.

3. Scalp Folliculitis: This condition may be associated with local trauma or underlying diseases such as diabetes. When present, it can damage hair follicles, disrupt normal hair growth, and lead to symptoms including scalp itching, redness, swelling, and loss of white hairs. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions and use medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or erythromycin ointment for treatment.

4. Anemia: Typically caused by insufficient quantity or quality of red blood cells, anemia can impair oxygen and nutrient delivery to various parts of the body—including the hair—potentially resulting in symptoms such as loss of gray or white hair and pallor. Patients are advised to take medications such as sustained-release ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous fumarate tablets, or ammonium ferric citrate vitamin B1 syrup II under medical supervision to improve their condition.

5. Vitiligo: Often linked to genetic predisposition or stress, when this condition affects the scalp, it may cause hair to turn white. The disease can also damage hair follicles, so patients may experience hair loss as well. It is recommended that patients strictly follow medical advice and use medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, halometasone cream, or tacrolimus ointment to manage symptoms.

In daily life, it is advisable to take sun protection measures, as ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage hair. Wearing hats or using hair sunscreen sprays when outdoors helps protect hair from direct sunlight.