Understanding Gray Hair and Its Causes
Gray hair is inevitable as we age, but that doesn't mean we have to accept it gracefully. Many people start going gray in their 30s and 40s, and find those first grays annoying and aging. Gray hair signifies getting older, which nobody wants to broadcast. So how do we cope with the onset of gray locks?
Graying occurs when melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color, starts to disappear from the hair follicles. Hair follicles contain stem cells that produce melanocytes, which make and store melanin. As we get older, the stem cells in our hair follicles start to lose their ability to produce melanocytes.
Without melanin, new hair strands grow in lighter and take on a gray, silver, or white color. Some follicles simply stop producing hair altogether. Genetics plays a role in the graying process, which explains why some people go gray earlier than others.
While aging is the most common reason for graying, other factors can speed up the process.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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