The pathogenesis of graying is multifactorial such as genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The risk factor of premature graying is a deficiency of micronutrient serum such as zinc, copper, and selenium.
There is some thought that grey hair may reflect a deficiency in certain nutrients including the minerals zinc and copper. Taking 15 mg of zinc along with 1 mg of copper each day may possibly help to prevent or delay the onset of grey hair.
According to these results, among copper, zinc, and iron, a low serum copper concentration may play a role in premature graying of hairs in our society.
Para-Amino benzoic Acid (PABA) and Pantothenic Acid are part of the family of B-complex vitamins. Both of these vitamins are available at health food stores and pharmacies. Use them to postpone the onset of graying.
However, the rate of hair colour loss is largely determined by your genes. The chances are that you will experience premature greying if your parents do. However, certain nutritional deficiencies and underlying medical conditions may play a role. In these cases, yes, white hair can turn black again.
Vitamin A, C and B12 are the most needed vitamins to increase the melanin production in your hair. Add citrus fruits like oranges, grapes, pineapple, and melon to your diet. Also eat vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beans, etc. Non vegetarians can try adding red meat, chicken liver, fish, and eggs to their diet.
Vitamins D, B12, B9, B5, and minerals like iron, calcium, and zinc can help reverse gray hair. Vitamin supplements can also prevent premature hair graying.
So far, there are no natural remedies that can slow down the hair-graying process. The best thing you can do is to stay healthy, eat a well-rounded diet, and lower your stress levels as much as possible.
Premature graying may be reversed with vitamin B12 supplementation only if vitamin B12 deficiency is the cause. If you are graying due to other factors, such as genetics, zinc deficiency, and medications, your gray hair cannot be reversed.
What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency? Zinc deficiency can result in skin changes that look like eczema at first. There may be cracks and a glazed appearance on the skin, often found around the mouth, nappy area and hands. The rash doesn't get better with moisturisers or steroid creams or lotions.
Other important minerals for healthy hair are selenium and magnesium. People who are deficient in these important minerals have more risk of their hair turning gray.
Some studies have shown that our hair follicles are closely intertwined with parts of the immune system that support healthy hair growth. As a result, a zinc deficiency is thought to be associated with hair loss. For this reason, zinc supplements have historically been recommended as a hair loss treatment.
Zinc supports hair growth, strengthens hair follicles and increases thickness. Just as zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, so can excess levels of zinc. Taking zinc supplements in moderation with proper medical advice is key.
Studies have identified a number of factors that also may speed up gray hair, including smoking, diet, stress and genetics.
Vinegar can help lighten and refine hair color when applied to gray hair. Gray hair normally looks brassy because of its light tint, which shows stains and poor hair health easily. ACV can help remove the stains and improve the health of your hair, making it look brighter and healthier.
“Eumelanin production increases as we age, and as we age we tend to go grey. Therefore hair may get darker before the greys take over,” she explains.