Causes of White Hair in Young Age

Having white hair is usually a sign of old age, but even young people may have white hair. Find out the possible reasons that make hair lose its and turn white.

Himanshu Sharma
Written by:Himanshu SharmaPublished at: Dec 01, 2013

Reasons Behind Premature Greying of Hair

Reasons Behind Premature Greying of Hair
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Whitening of hair is a sign of ageing. Some associate grey hair with wisdom and maturity, not when it occurs prematurely. Anyone who has grey hair before the age of 40 is greying prematurely. Is your hair going grey early, what could be the reason behind it?

Melanin

Melanin
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Grey hair is formed when the hair follicles slow the production of natural pigment, melanin. As the production of melanin by your hair roots slows down, your hair loses colour and begins to turn white or grey.

Genetics

Genetics
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The time at which hair starts to grey is directly tied to one's genes. If your parents or grandparents suffered from premature greying of hair, you may suffer from the same problem.

Inappropriate diet

Inappropriate diet
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A balanced diet plays an important role in maintaining the health of your body which includes your hair as well. Lack of vitamin B12, excessive intake of tea, coffee, spices and fried foods may cause premature greying.

Stress

Stress
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If you are undergoing an emotional shock or turmoil, white hair may appear. Stress decreases the amount of pigment our hair receives when it grows. Try to keep your stress levels down to prevent premature greying.

Copper deficiency

Copper deficiency
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There are a number of nutritional deficiencies that can actually cause your hair to lose its colour, strength and lustre. Grey hair at a young age is one of the common signs of copper deficiency.

Thyroid imbalances

Thyroid imbalances
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Certain medical conditions can be the reason for hair to turn white prematurely. Thyroid conditions such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can also cause hair to turn white.

Unhealthy habits

Unhealthy habits
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White hair can be the outcome of unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking. Smokers are more likely to have more white hair than their counterparts. Do not smoke or drink alcohol excessively. A healthy lifestyle, proper diet and a positive attitude, can delay the process of hair turning white.

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