Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Premature hair greying is increasingly common among young Indians, often appearing in their 20s or early 30s. While genetics play a role, lifestyle, stress, and environmental factors are accelerating the process.
– Pollution: Oxidative stress from pollution weakens hair follicles and disrupts melanin production, leading to grey strands. – Stress: Chronic stress raises cortisol, a hormone that accelerates ageing, including hair greying. – Diet: Poor nutrition, heavy on processed foods and lacking essential nutrients, leaves hair more vulnerable to oxidative damage and greying.
– Lack of antioxidants: A diet low in antioxidants makes hair more susceptible to oxidative stress, speeding up the greying process. – Essential nutrients: Deficiency in copper, B12, iron, and zinc can disrupt melanin production, leading to grey hair.
Living in polluted urban areas exposes hair to toxins and free radicals that damage the cells responsible for hair pigmentation. Stress further intensifies this by affecting hair follicle function.
Frequent use of sulphates, parabens, and artificial fragrances in shampoos and hair products can strip hair of natural oils, irritate follicles, and reduce melanin production. Overuse of heat styling tools also exacerbates greying.
Opting for sulphate-free, paraben-free, and silicone-free formulations can help maintain scalp health. Products with botanical extracts, antioxidants, and mild cleansers nourish the hair and reduce stress on follicles.
– Copper: Vital for melanin production. – B12 & B5: Essential for healthy hair follicles and pigmentation. – Iron, Zinc, Folic Acid: Support hair health, prevent thinning, and aid in pigmentation.
Natural ingredients like argan oil, goji berries, amla, bhringraj, and hibiscus have been shown to protect hair pigmentation and improve scalp health. Amla, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, boosts melanin production and enhances circulation.
Premature greying is not irreversible. With the right diet, clean haircare routines, and stress management, young Indians can significantly slow down or even prevent the onset of greying hair.