Hair greying

Hair greying This is a natural process linked to the gradual reduction in the production of melanin – the pigment responsible for hair colour. Over time, the melanocytes found in the hair follicles produce less and less pigment, which is why new hair turns grey and then white.

The age at which the first grey hairs appear is primarily influenced by genetic factors and the body’s ageing process. Certain medical conditions, nutrient deficiencies and other environmental factors may also play a role. Stress can affect the condition of the hair, but it is neither the sole nor the main cause of physiological greying.

Hair greying is not the same as hair loss. Age-related changes can affect the structure and growth rate of hair; however, the normal hair cycle still comprises the following phases: anagen, catagen and the telogen phase.

If greying is accompanied by increased hair loss, thinning hair or a marked deterioration in the condition of the hair, it is worth consulting trichologist and consider appropriate diagnostic tests, including hair tests.