You’re 26, maybe 27, and you spot it in the mirror under the bathroom light. One silver strand. Then another. Maybe you pluck it. Maybe you panic. Either way, that old joke about finding your first grey hair is suddenly not funny anymore because you’re not supposed to be old enough for this yet.The weird part? You’re not alone. Grey hair used to be a 40-plus problem. Here’s the thing though: genetics gets some of the blame, sure. But it’s not the whole story. Your lifestyle might be aging your hair faster than your actual years. And that part? You can actually do something about it.So what’s actually happening to your hair. Because before you start buying expensive products or panicking about your health, you should know what’s really going on.“Previously, grey hair was commonly seen among older people above 40. However, now, it is a common occurrence below 30. Yes, that’s right! Even if it is surprising, many are struggling with this problem and tend to feel embarrassed, and this can take a toll on their self-esteem. So, noticing grey hair before the age of 30 can be concerning for many people. While greying is a natural part of aging, its early onset is now being seen particularly in young adults. Premature greying can raise questions about underlying health or lifestyle issues,” says Dr. Shareefa Chause, Dermatologist, Dr Shareefa’s Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai.
Above and beyond genes
Genetics is one of the main reasons that can lead to premature greying. So, understand that if there is a family history of premature greying, it is more likely to occur at a younger age. “Even stress can affect the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour. Likewise, nutritional deficiencies are another important factor. Lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and copper, can also raise the chances of early greying. A poor diet consisting of junk and processed foods can lead to premature greying,” adds Dr. Shareefa. “Many also have habits like smoking, failing to get enough sleep, and even constant exposure to pollution, which are also some of the factors that damage the hair and steal the peace of mind. Certain medical conditions, like thyroid disorders or autoimmune issues, can also cause premature greying,” the expert adds.
What can you do?
Dr. Shareefa has shared few healthy tips for hair:
- Having a balanced diet is important. Opt for green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dairy products.
- Staying hydrated and drinking enough water, exercising daily, doing yoga and meditation, and sleeping well are important.
- Say no to chemical-based hair products and heat styling tools that can have a negative impact on the hair and further increase the greying.
- Go for mild shampoos and conditioners recommended by the expert.
- Regular oiling and gentle scalp care also help.
- However, don’t try any products on your own that claim to help with the appearance of black hair again. Using hair dyes and herbal products is a strict no-no. Adhere to the guidelines given by the expert for healthy hair.
