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What causes white hair, and how can it be managed or improved?

Mar 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, hair whitening may be caused by genetic factors, aging, psychological factors, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, and other reasons. It requires regulation through general treatment, medication, and other methods. In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and positive mindset, which can help prevent and improve premature graying of hair.

Generally speaking, hair whitening may be caused by genetic factors, aging, psychological factors, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, and other reasons. It requires regulation through general treatment, medication, and other methods. If physical discomfort occurs, medical attention should be sought promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

Premature graying of hair may be related to genetics. If someone in the family develops gray hair at a young age, the individual is more likely to experience premature graying. Although genetic factors are difficult to change, certain measures can help delay the process of graying, such as using hair dyes to cover gray hair. Choosing plant-based dyes like henna or Polygonum multiflorum can reduce damage caused by chemical dyes.

2. Aging

With aging, the number and activity of melanocytes gradually decrease, resulting in reduced melanin content in the hair and the appearance of gray hair. Although aging is a natural process that cannot be reversed, a healthy diet rich in antioxidant foods, such as blueberries, walnuts, and green tea, can help combat free radicals and slow down cellular aging.

3. Psychological Factors

Long-term excessive psychological stress and persistent mental tension may lead to endocrine disorders, affecting the normal function of melanocytes and causing hair to turn gray. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety. It is recommended to adjust emotions timely, maintain a pleasant mood, and relax the body and mind through activities like exercise, meditation, and listening to music to relieve stress.

4. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for the normal functioning of the nervous and hematopoietic systems. A deficiency may affect the normal function of melanocytes, reducing melanin synthesis and causing hair color loss. Symptoms may also include fatigue, memory decline, and pale skin. It is recommended to take medications such as adenosylcobamide tablets, methylcobalamin tablets, or vitamin B12 tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Hypothyroidism

Autoimmune damage, excessive or insufficient iodine intake, and other factors may lead to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can affect melanin production and distribution, causing hair to turn gray. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as cold intolerance, constipation, and palpitations. It is recommended to take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or alfacalcidol soft capsules under medical guidance for treatment.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and a positive mindset can help prevent and improve gray hair.

References

[1] Liu Yuhang, Xiao Zhibo. Mechanism and Research Prospects of Gray Hair Formation[J]. Chinese Journal of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2025, 36(01): 64-68.

[2] Zhang Jiaxin. Hormones May Prevent Wrinkles and Gray Hair[N]. Science and Technology Daily, 2025-02-28(004). DOI:10.28502/n.cnki.nkjrb.2025.001369.

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