Is it better for hair to turn gray early or late?
Dec 23, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Generally speaking, it is better to develop gray hair at a later age. From a physiological perspective, premature graying of hair usually indicates that the body may have some underlying abnormalities. Early graying of hair may be related to genetic factors, as certain familial early graying genes can cause melanocytes to decrease or stop producing melanin prematurely, leading to gray hair. At the same time, it may also be a sign of nutritional deficiencies in the body.
In general, it is better if hair turns white at a later age. The detailed analysis is as follows:
From a physiological perspective, premature graying usually indicates that the body may be experiencing some abnormalities. Early graying may be related to genetic factors, as certain genes associated with familial premature graying can cause melanocytes to decrease or stop producing melanin prematurely, resulting in white hair. It may also indicate nutritional deficiencies in the body. For example, a lack of nutrients such as vitamin B12, copper, and zinc can affect melanin synthesis, as these elements play crucial roles as cofactors in the biochemical processes of melanin production.
In addition, prolonged excessive stress and overly tense or anxious emotional states can place the body in a state of stress, interfering with the function of melanocytes in hair follicles and leading to premature graying. Later graying of hair indicates that the melanocyte function has remained relatively normal over a longer period, with hair follicles continuously producing melanin to maintain the original hair color. To some extent, this reflects a more stable internal environment, good nutritional status, and a healthier mental state, without exposure to severe factors that could disrupt the normal functioning of melanocytes. Therefore, it is better to have hair turn white later rather than earlier.
In daily life, it is important to focus on balanced nutrition, avoid frequent hair dyeing and perming, and maintain scalp cleanliness and appropriate massage to promote scalp health and delay the appearance of gray hair.
