Premature greying of hair can be a concerning issue for many, especially when it starts appearing in your twenties or early thirties. Hair turns grey when the pigment-producing cells in the hair follicles, known as melanocytes, decrease their production of melanin. Genetics also play a significant role in when and how rapidly your hair turns grey. While greying is a natural part of the ageing process, there are ways to slow down or even prevent premature greying.
Here are a few tips and strategies to maintain your hair’s youthful colour for longer:
Increase your intake of vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy hair. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to premature greying. Incorporate foods such as eggs, dairy products, and fish into your diet. For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, consider fortified foods or supplements.
Ensure adequate iron levels
Iron deficiency is another common cause of premature greying. Foods rich in iron include spinach, legumes, red meat, and fortified cereals. If you suspect an iron deficiency, consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate supplements.
Consume antioxidant- and copper-rich foods
Oxidative stress can damage melanin-producing cells. Antioxidants help combat this stress. Incorporate fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables, into your diet. Copper is also vital for melanin production. Foods like lentils, almonds, and shellfish are excellent sources of copper. Ensuring you have sufficient copper in your diet can help in maintaining your natural hair colour.
Avoid harsh hair treatments
Frequent use of harsh hair treatments like bleaching, perming, and excessive heat styling can damage hair follicles and contribute to premature greying. Opt for more natural hair care methods and limit the use of heat-styling tools.
Manage stress effectively
Chronic stress is linked to premature greying. Practising stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help reduce stress levels and protect your hair’s natural colour.
Quit smoking
Smoking has been directly linked to premature greying. The toxins in cigarettes can damage melanin-producing cells, leading to grey hair. Quitting smoking not only benefits your hair but also improves overall health.
Use gentle hair products
Choose shampoos, conditioners, and masks free from sulphates and parabens. These chemicals can strip your hair of its natural oils and damage the scalp, potentially leading to premature greying. Also, massaging your scalp while using these products can improve blood circulation, promoting healthier hair follicles. Use natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, or amla oil to massage your scalp regularly.
Try home remedies
Several home remedies are believed to help in preventing premature greying, although scientific evidence supporting these remedies may vary. Amla is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help maintain hair pigment. You can consume amla juice or apply amla oil directly to your scalp. Black tea is rich in antioxidants and tannins, which can darken hair naturally. Rinsing your hair with brewed black tea can help in maintaining its colour. Curry leaves are also believed to help in preventing premature greying. Boil a handful of curry leaves in coconut oil until they turn black. Strain the oil and apply it to your scalp regularly.
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