How stress causes gray hair

Stress can have a variety of negative effects on the body. The idea that acute stress can cause hair to turn gray is a popular belief. But until now, that link wasn’t scientifically proven.

Hair color is determined by cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin. New melanocytes are made from melanocyte stem cells that live within the hair follicle at the base of the hair strand. As we age, these stem cells gradually disappear. The hair that regrows from hair follicles that have lost melanocyte stem cells has less pigment and appears grey.

How to reverse grey hair to black?

If oxidative stress is leading to grey hair, including antioxidant-rich foods in your diet can restore your original hair color. Cutting down on smoking, reducing stress, and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals on the hair help reverse grey hair naturally. Grey hair caused by genetics cannot be reversed.

Yes, stress can contribute to premature graying of hair. Stress can trigger the release of hormones like norepinephrine, which can damage the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in hair follicles, leading to a reduction in melanin and causing hair to turn gray or white .