Causes of premature greying

Most premature greying is inherited, but other factors can add to it.

Genetics

If your parents or close relatives went grey early, you are more likely to. This is the most common cause.

Nutritional deficiencies

• Vitamin B12 deficiency, which is common in vegetarians and in people with absorption problems
• Low iron or ferritin, and anaemia
• Low vitamin D
• Low copper, zinc or folate Treating a proven deficiency can help, but supplements are not useful if your levels are normal.

Medical conditions

• Thyroid disease, both underactive and overactive
• Autoimmune conditions such as vitiligo, alopecia areata and pernicious anaemia
• Rarely, genetic conditions such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis, or early ageing syndromes

Lifestyle and environment

• Smoking: strongly linked with early greying
• Chronic stress. Studies show that stress can deplete pigment stem cells, though the effect in humans is still being studied.
• Oxidative stress from pollution and sun exposure
• Some hair chemicals and dyes, which may damage hair
• Some medicines, such as chloroquine

Not causes

Plucking a grey hair does not cause more to grow, and shampoo, oil or hard water do not cause greying on their own.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive)

Traditional texts link early greying to aggravated Pitta, stress, anger, sleeplessness and poor nourishment. This is a conceptual framework.

When to get help

See a doctor for tests if greying is early, rapid or combined with other symptoms.

Remember

Genes are the main cause. Check for deficiencies and thyroid problems, and stop smoking.