8 Questions We’ve All Asked Ourselves About Gray Hairs

[LoShiNi]

Just as with wrinkles, gray roots or white hairs are visible signs of aging. However, these often appear very early in some cases, and much later in others. What determines the appearance of these hairs and how can we prevent or delay their appearance? Keep reading to find out.

Trichology is the science, which studies hair and the scalp. Madeleine Preston is a trichologist who explains why gray hairs appear and whether it’s possible to delay their appearance, by answering these simple questions:

1. At what age do gray hairs first start to appear?

“Most women in their 30s can start to see some gray hairs; but when they reach the age of 50, 50% of their hair will be gray.”

2. Why do gray hairs appear?

“Gray hair is a combination of hair with normal pigmentation being intermixed with white hair. The hair becomes white when it stops producing melanin.”


3. Is it possible to delay the appearance of gray hairs?

“Nutritional and hormonal factors can affect hair color, as well as stress. In general, though, the predisposition is genetic.”

4. Is it more common in some people than others?

“Being a matter of genetic inheritance, the chances of getting gray hairs, or not, depends on the family. However, people of Caucasian background tend to have gray hairs appear earlier. So too do those who suffer from diabetes, anemia, or thyroid problems.”


5. What foods are recommended for healthy hair?

“Foods such as eggs and fish are great sources of protein. On the other hand, it’s common for people to have iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin D, B12, and B6 deficiencies. Therefore, it’s important to include foods rich in these vitamins and minerals.”

6. What kind of supplements are recommended?

“Multivitamin supplements with Omega-3 are recommended because they prevent the hair from becoming dry and lifeless. They have a hydrating effect, which can also reduce itching and dandruff.”

7. What lifestyle changes can improve hair health?

“The first change should be toward a balanced diet, rich in protein and carbohydrates, containing enough essential vitamins and minerals.”

8. Is it good to massage the scalp?

“Just as our body needs regular exercise, so too does our head. Doing so with shampoo leaves the scalp fresh and clean. Plus, these movements stimulate the blood supply and help feed hair follicles.”

How does your hair look? Do you have a genetic predisposition to gray hairs appearing early?