Why Are Indians Experiencing Hair Greying in Their 20s? – News18
Last Updated:
Hair greying is a natural part of aging; that being said, the rapid rise of premature greying is concerning
Even though premature greying is a growing concern among young Indians, it is not an irreversible fate. With the right lifestyle adjustments, clean haircare products and mindful choices, premature greying can be managed effectively.
Premature hair greying is becoming increasingly prevalent among young Indians, with many noticing their first silver strands as early as their 20s. Hair greying is a natural part of aging; that being said, the rapid rise of premature greying is concerning. Factors like environmental, lifestyle, and nutritional contribute to the early loss of hair pigmentation.
Here are some of the key reasons behind this and their potential solutions:
The Premature Greying Epidemic: Why More Young Indians Are Affected
Primarily greying hair was associated with middle age and beyond until recently. However, more and more individuals in their 20s and 30s have started noticing early greys, which is a concern. Several factors come into play like hereditary predisposition, external factors, and lifestyle influences, largely responsible for the acceleration of this process. To manage and potentially slow down premature greying, it’s imperative to understand these causes.
The Role of Pollution, Stress, and Diet in Melanin Depletion
One of the biggest culprits of premature greying is the environment. Urban pollution exposes hair to toxins and oxidative stress. It damages hair follicles and reduces melanin production, the pigment responsible for hair color. The harmful effects of pollution are worsened by the high levels of stress experienced by today’s youth. Additionally, chronic stress triggers hormonal imbalances and increases cortisol levels, which can weaken hair follicles and accelerate greying.
Akanksha Sharma, co-founder, CEO, CITTA believes, “Diet plays a crucial role. The modern Indian diet, high in processed foods and low in essential nutrients, deprives hair of vital nourishment. Deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals accelerate melanin depletion. This makes it easier for grey hair to appear earlier than expected.”
Chemical-Loaded Hair Products vs. Clean Alternatives
Another culprit is the frequent use of chemical-laden hair products. Many commercial shampoos, dyes, and styling products contain harsh ingredients like sulphates, parabens, and toxins, which strip hair of natural oils and damage melanin production. The excessive use of heat styling tools further weakens hair health, which again leads to premature greying. Switching to clean hair care alternatives with natural, science backed actives can help mitigate these effects. Sulpate-free and paraben-free formulations are gentler on the scalp and hair, preserving the natural balance and slowing down the greying process.
The Missing Minerals: Copper, B Vitamins, and More
Nutritional deficiencies are a major yet often overlooked reason for early greying. Copper, for instance, is essential for melanin synthesis. A lack of copper can lead to a gradual loss of pigmentation. Similarly, deficiencies in B-complex vitamins (especially B12 and B5) can weaken hair follicles and contribute to premature greying.
Iron, zinc, and folic acid also play a role in maintaining healthy hair. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, dairy, and lean proteins can help combat these deficiencies. Those with chronic deficiencies may benefit from targeted supplementation after consulting a healthcare provider.
How Plant-Powered Formulations Backed By Science Can Help
Natural ingredients backed by science can play a key role in strengthening and nourishing greying hair. Argan oil, for example, is packed with antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E, which help protect hair from oxidative damage and keep it hydrated. Besides, goji berries, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, can contribute to healthier, stronger, and more vibrant hair due to their ability to protect hair follicles, promote collagen production, and potentially reduce hair greying.
Even though premature greying is a growing concern among young Indians, it is not an irreversible fate. With the right lifestyle adjustments, clean haircare products and mindful choices, premature greying can be managed effectively.
