What causes white hair in the late teens?

Under normal circumstances, white hair in teenagers around the ages of 17 or 18 may be caused by genetic factors, excessive mental stress, nutritional deficiencies, abnormal thyroid function, alopecia areata, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic factors: If there is a family history of premature graying, melanocytes in adolescents may deteriorate earlier, leading to early-onset white hair. There is no need for excessive anxiety; hair coloring can improve appearance. In daily life, consume more dark-colored foods such as black sesame seeds and black beans, maintain regular作息 (daily routines), and slow down the progression of white hair.

2. Excessive mental stress: Heavy academic workload and emotional anxiety can lead to endocrine disorders that inhibit melanin production, resulting in white hair. Schedule 30 minutes of exercise daily to relieve stress, listen to soothing music before bedtime to aid sleep, communicate with family and friends to manage emotions, and avoid prolonged mental strain.

3. Nutritional deficiencies: Picky eating habits over a long period can lead to insufficient intake of nutrients such as B vitamins and copper, affecting melanin synthesis. Adjust dietary patterns to ensure balanced consumption of meat, eggs, and vegetables. Follow medical advice to take supplements such as multivitamin B tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, and folic acid tablets to replenish essential nutrients.

4. Abnormal thyroid function: Disruption in thyroid hormone secretion affects metabolism and interferes with melanocyte function, triggering white hair, often accompanied by fatigue and abnormal weight changes. Hormone-regulating treatments should be administered under medical supervision using medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, and L-thyroxine sodium tablets, with regular follow-up tests of thyroid function.

5. Alopecia areata: Autoimmune abnormalities attack hair follicles, causing sudden whitening or loss of hair, sometimes forming round patches of baldness. Avoid staying up late, which may worsen immune dysfunction. Follow medical advice to apply topical treatments such as minoxidil solution, halometasone cream, or desonide cream to promote hair follicle recovery.

In daily life, avoid frequent perming and dyeing that damage hair quality, and choose mild shampoo products. Reduce intake of high-sugar and spicy foods to prevent metabolic disturbances. Maintain scalp cleanliness and use fingertip massage to improve blood circulation in the scalp, providing adequate nutrition to hair follicles.