White Hair: Causes, Prevention, and Natural Remedies, White hair is one of the most common side effects of modern lifestyle, and noticing your first gray strand can be alarming. Naturally, you will seek treatments and remedies to prevent further graying. Let’s explore how to address and potentially reduce white hair.
Understanding the Causes of White Hair
White hair is associated with the aging process. However, discovering it in your mid-thirties or early twenties can be frustrating. Gray and white hair results from the loss of hair pigment. Gray hair occurs when pigment levels decrease significantly, and hair turns completely white when no pigment is left. The exact cause of this condition remains unknown. This article lists some options to prevent the growth of white hair. Keep reading.
What Causes White Hair?
Hair growth occurs when new cells push old cells out of the hair follicles. This process has three stages: anagen (growth), catagen (cessation), and telogen (rest). During the resting phase, hair reaches its lifespan, sheds, and a new strand grows in its place. Hair color is produced by melanin, formed by melanocytes. Unlike skin, hair pigmentation is not continuous. Hair is actively pigmented during the anagen phase, pigmentation decreases in the catagen phase and is absent in the telogen phase. With age, the amount of pigment injected into each hair strand decreases, leading to gray and eventually white hair. The following section discusses factors that cause white hair and how to prevent it.
- Genetics Genetics plays a major role in determining when your hair loses pigment. For some, it can happen before the age of 20, while for others, the first white strands appear much later.
- Lack of Melanin A melanin deficiency is the leading cause of white hair. Melanin production relies on adequate nutrition and protein intake. A lack of these nutrients reduces melanin to below-acceptable levels.
- Hormones Hormonal imbalances can trigger or accelerate premature graying. If your hair is graying rapidly and you suspect a hormonal imbalance, consult a doctor.
- Smoking Studies show that smoking is a significant factor in premature graying. Reactive oxygen species from smoking damage hair follicle melanocytes, leading to early white hair.
- Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12, and selenium can cause hair to turn white. Low levels of biotin, vitamin B12, and folic acid have been found in people with premature white hair.
- Stress and Anxiety Emotional stress can also contribute. Studies indicate that oxidative load due to psychological stress can cause premature white hair. Stress can also lead to early hair loss.
- Chemicals The use of chemical-based shampoos, soaps, hair dyes, etc., can directly cause this problem. It may also result from allergic reactions to certain chemicals.
Natural Remedies to Reduce White Hair
1. Amla and Coconut Oil
Amla (Indian gooseberry) is rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant with anti-aging benefits that can revive pigment in your hair follicles. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft, reducing protein loss and improving hair health.
Ingredients
– 3-5 Indian gooseberries
– 1 cup coconut oil
Method
1. Boil 3-4 gooseberries in 1 cup of coconut oil to make the oil.
2. Store the oil in a jar and use about two tablespoons per application.
3. Massage the oil into your scalp and hair.
4. Massage for 15 minutes and leave it on for 30 minutes, or overnight.
5. Wash with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
Frequency
– 2-4 times a week.
2. Black Tea
Black tea is rich in antioxidants that can help prevent hair damage from free radicals, add shine, and darken hair color. It is also known to help reduce stress, a significant factor in premature white hair.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons black tea
– 1 cup water
Method
1. Boil two tablespoons of black tea in a cup of water until well brewed.
2. Let the brew cool.
3. Strain and apply it to your hair and scalp.
4. Massage your scalp for a couple of minutes and wait for an hour.
5. Rinse with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
Frequency
– 2-3 times a week.
3. Curry Leaves and Coconut Oil
Curry leaves help maintain and retain natural hair tone and prevent premature white hair. Coconut oil nourishes hair roots and promotes growth.
Ingredients
– A handful of curry leaves
– 3 tablespoons coconut oil
Method
1. Boil a handful of curry leaves in 3 tablespoons of coconut oil to make the oil.
2. Let the oil cool.
3. Strain and massage it into your scalp and through your hair length.
4. Massage for 15 minutes and leave for 30 minutes, or overnight.
5. Wash with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
Frequency
– 2-3 times a week.
4. Lemon Juice and Coconut Oil
Lemon contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and protect hair from damage. However, there’s no scientific evidence that lemon juice can reverse white hair. Coconut oil nourishes your hair and promotes growth.
Ingredients
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Method
1. Mix two tablespoons of coconut oil with two teaspoons of lemon juice and warm it slightly.
2. Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair.
3. Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
4. Wash with a mild sulfate-free shampoo.
Frequency
– Twice a week.
5. Onion Juice and Olive Oil
An onion juice study suggests it may help reduce hair loss and promote regrowth in some people. Onion juice contains catalase, which can reduce hydrogen peroxide buildup on the scalp, helping reduce white hair. However, the smell can be off-putting. Olive oil conditions and nourishes your hair.
Ingredients
– 1 medium-sized onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– A cheesecloth
Method
1. Chop a medium-sized onion and blend with a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Use a cheesecloth to extract the juice.
3. Apply the juice to your scalp and massage for about 10 minutes.
4. Leave it on for an additional 30-35 minutes.
5. Wash with a mild sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.
Frequency
– Twice a week.
Tips to Reduce White Hair
- Increase Intake of Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. Ensure your diet includes foods rich in Vitamin B12, such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
- Increase Intake of Vitamin B5 Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, helps prevent premature graying and supports overall hair health. Include whole grains, avocados, and sweet potatoes in your diet.
- Keep Thyroid Levels Under Control Thyroid imbalances can lead to premature graying. Regular check-ups and maintaining thyroid health can prevent the early onset of white hair.
- Quit Smoking Smoking accelerates the aging process, including premature graying. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and slow down hair aging.
- Load Up on Antioxidants Antioxidants combat oxidative stress, which can cause premature graying. Include antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables in your diet.
- Protect Your Hair from UV Rays Excessive exposure to UV rays can damage hair and accelerate graying. Use hats or scarves to protect your hair when outdoors and consider using hair products with UV protection.
By understanding the causes of white hair and adopting natural remedies and healthy lifestyle choices, you can effectively manage and potentially reduce the occurrence of white hair. Consistent care and attention to your hair’s needs will help maintain its natural color and health.
