Thinning and grey hair are not always signs of ageing but could signal a deficiency - The signs to look for
Grey hair is the result of follicles failing to produce pigments
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The body needs an abundance of nutrients to function at optimal levels. Sadly, even a slight shortfall in vitamins and minerals can reflect in the hair and skin.
Premature thinning and greying are not just cosmetic issues but can significantly hinder self-confidence over time.
The good news is that many of these changes can be reversed with the help of a targeted treatment plan and lifestyle changes.
Understanding the root causes is essential, however, as this will point individuals to the best treatment for their concerns.
Treating deficiencies could reverse the greying and thinning of the hair
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Speaking to GB News, experts in the hair industry have elucidated some of the overlooked causes of premature thinning and greying.
Doctor Christina Han, Medical Director at Xyon Health, said: “Premature greying of hair can indeed be a sign of certain nutritional deficiencies.
“[It] can sometimes be linked to a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins such as B12, as well as copper and iron.”
The expert emphasised that while genetics play a major role in hair colour, addressing nutritional gaps can help “slow the progression of greying for some individuals”.
She continued: “Addressing nutritional deficiencies can indeed have a positive impact on reversing symptoms like hair thinning and premature greying.
“Correcting deficiencies, particularly those related to iron and B vitamins, can lead to noticeable improvements in hair health.”
Along with disrupting the production of pigments, nutritional deficiencies can hinder hair growth cycles, resulting in thinning, brittle strands and excessive shedding.
Doctor Han cautioned that the effectiveness of treating these symptoms by addressing deficiencies depends on the severity of the deficiency and how early it is detected.
Other signs of premature ageing linked to nutritional deficiencies
According to Doctor Han, nutritional deficiencies are linked to various signs of premature ageing beyond hair concerns.
She explained: “Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, B vitamins and antioxidants can contribute to other signs of premature ageing, including skin changes like dryness, wrinkles and a lack of elasticity.
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Embracing hair is a process many people learn to enjoy
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“Ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is key not only for hair health but for overall longevity and youthful appearance.”
How to tell if greying is premature
Typically, white people start going grey in their mid-30s, Asian people in their late 30s, and black people in their mid-40s.
Though people experience greying for many reasons, it is most often down to natural ageing and genetic factors.
You can check with older family members when they went grey and see whether it matches your timeline.
Embracing grey locks and ditching the dye is a journey that many individuals learn to enjoy when the time is right.