What causes white hair in the genital area?

Generally, white hair in the genital area may be caused by factors such as aging, high levels of mental stress, poor diet, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are analyzed below:

1. Aging

As people age, the body's production of melanin decreases, which may lead to whitening of genital hair. The aging process can be slowed through a healthy lifestyle including a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep.

2. High Mental Stress

Chronic mental stress may affect the body's endocrine system, triggering the growth of white hair in the genital area. It is important to learn how to manage emotions and stress effectively and maintain a positive, optimistic mindset.

3. Poor Diet

An unbalanced diet may lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, impairing melanin synthesis and resulting in white hair in the genital region. Maintaining a well-balanced diet ensures adequate intake of essential nutrients.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Excessive or insufficient iodine intake may lead to hyperthyroidism. This condition may attack and damage melanin-producing cells, reducing melanin production and causing white hair in the genital area. Symptoms often include palpitations and excessive sweating. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as methimazole tablets, prednisone acetate tablets, and propranolol hydrochloride tablets.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes is commonly caused by unhealthy dietary habits such as high sugar and high fat intake. Prolonged high blood glucose levels may lead to vascular complications and nerve damage, affecting the normal function of hair follicles in the genital area and resulting in abnormal white hair growth. Common accompanying symptoms include frequent urination and weight loss. Medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glimepiride tablets, and gliclazide modified-release tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

In daily life, personal hygiene should be maintained, keeping the genital area clean and dry. Additionally, consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals—such as oats, bananas, and apples—can support melanin production.