What causes white hair on the top of the head?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, white hair on the scalp may be caused by factors such as aging, malnutrition, excessive mental stress, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Maintaining a balanced diet in daily life, including vitamin B12-rich foods such as clams, eggs, and milk, is beneficial for healthy hair growth.
Under normal circumstances, white hair on the crown may be caused by factors such as aging, malnutrition, excessive mental stress, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
As people age, the activity of melanocytes in the body gradually decreases, leading to reduced melanin in hair and resulting in an increased amount of white hair on the scalp. Hair dyes, coloring sprays, or hair color powders can be used cosmetically to cover gray hair for aesthetic purposes.
2. Malnutrition
Poor eating habits such as picky eating may lead to malnutrition, depriving hair follicles of proper nourishment and promoting the growth of white hair on the crown. Consuming foods rich in protein, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other nutrients can help maintain healthy hair.
3. Excessive Mental Stress
Long-term mental stress, anxiety, and tension may cause endocrine imbalances, thereby affecting melanin production and causing hair on the crown to turn white. It's important to maintain a positive mood and relieve stress through adequate rest, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
4. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is primarily caused by excessive intake of iodine-rich foods or medications. The condition may lead to hormonal imbalances or metabolic abnormalities that impair normal melanocyte function, resulting in white hair on the crown. Symptoms often include palpitations, hand tremors, and weight loss. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as methimazole tablets, metoprolol tartrate tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes may result from overeating, lack of physical activity, obesity, and other factors, disrupting overall metabolism and reducing melanin production, which can lead to white hair on the crown. Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glimepiride tablets, or acarbose tablets may be prescribed under medical guidance.
Maintaining a balanced diet with vitamin B12-rich foods such as clams, eggs, and milk can support healthy hair growth.
