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

Mar 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, white hair may be caused by factors such as heredity, aging, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, vitiligo, and other reasons. It requires regulation through general treatments, medication, and other methods. In daily life, it is recommended to maintain good living and dietary habits to promote hair health.

Generally speaking, white hair may be caused by genetic factors, aging, vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, vitiligo, and other factors. It requires regulation through general treatments, medication, and other methods. If symptoms are severe, it is recommended to seek timely medical examination and targeted treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

Family genetics can influence the timing and speed of hair whitening. If there are family members with premature graying, the likelihood of an individual experiencing early graying increases. Dyeing the hair can alter the appearance of white hair.

2. Aging

With aging, the activity of melanocytes in the body gradually declines, weakening the ability to synthesize melanin in hair, ultimately causing hair to lose its original color and turn white. Hair whitening caused by aging is difficult to reverse, but hair texture and color can be improved through the use of hair care products.

3. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for maintaining nervous system health and promoting DNA synthesis. Deficiency may lead to dysfunction of melanocytes, causing hair to turn white, and may also be accompanied by symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, and memory decline. It is recommended to use medications such as adenosylcobalamin tablets, methylcobalamin tablets, and vitamin B12 tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Hypothyroidism

Autoimmune damage, excessive or insufficient iodine intake, and other factors can lead to hypothyroidism. When thyroid hormone secretion is insufficient, the activity of melanocytes may decrease, reducing melanin synthesis and causing hair to turn white, potentially accompanied by symptoms such as cold intolerance, constipation, and weight gain. It is recommended to use medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, and alfacalcidol soft capsules under a doctor's guidance for treatment.

5. Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a common acquired pigmentary skin disease, associated with genetic factors, neuro-psychological factors, melanocyte self-destruction, and other causes. When melanocytes are damaged or dysfunctional, melanin cannot be synthesized or transported to the hair, resulting in white hair. It is recommended to use medications such as Qu Bai Babu tablets, Bai Ling tablets, Runji skin ointment, and others under medical guidance for treatment.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain good living and dietary habits to promote hair health.

References

[1] Li Xinmei, Zhang Jufang, Miao Yong, et al. Mechanisms and Research Progress of Canities [J]. Chinese Journal of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery, 2025, 36(01): 57-60+68.

[2] Wang Xuedong. Four Essential Tips for Hair Health [J]. Food and Health, 2006, (04): 8-9.

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What causes white hair?

Under normal circumstances, the presence of white hair may be caused by factors such as aging, mental stress, vitiligo, hyperthyroidism, alopecia areata, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Daily hair care is important, including avoiding frequent perming and dyeing to reduce irritation to the hair and hair follicles.

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Can chicken liver treat gray hair?

In general, chicken liver does not have a direct therapeutic effect on gray hair. When consuming chicken liver, ensure it is thoroughly cooked to avoid raw or undercooked consumption, which may lead to bacterial infection. The amount consumed each time should not be excessive; 1-2 times per week, with approximately 50 grams per serving, is sufficient. Excessive intake may result in excessive vitamin A consumption. Patients with hypercholesterolemia should consume chicken liver cautiously to avoid adverse effects on blood lipid levels.