Millennials and Gen Z are greying at an alarming rate. Can you reverse it?

Premature greying has become a worry for both millennials and Gen Zers. In addition to modern lifestyle factors, environmental elements such as pollution are also key contributors.

In Short

• Premature greying can occur due to genetic predisposition, oxidative stress, and exposure to environmental pollutants
• Nutrient deficiencies can also contribute
• Lifestyle changes, such as controlling stress and eating a balanced diet, can help manage premature greying of hair

Whether it's due to early access to information, constant product experimentation, or the fast-paced lifestyles they lead, Gen Z is showing signs of ageing earlier than expected.

One of the most common concerns they struggle with is their greys, and even millennials share this problem. People in their 20s and early 30s are increasingly worried about the appearance of grey strands.

If you're also losing sleep over this early onset of greys, find out from experts why it's happening and whether premature greying of hair can be reversed.

Understand the what and why

"Premature greying of hair, also known as canities, occurs when hair turns grey before the age of 20 in Caucasians, 25 in Asians, and 30 in African-Americans," Dr Aparna Santhanam, a Mumbai-based dermatologist, tells India Today.

According to Dr DM Mahajan, senior consultant in dermatology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, the primary causes of premature greying include genetic predisposition, which accounts for about 30 per cent of cases, as well as environmental factors like oxidative stress, ultraviolet radiation, and pollution.

Nutritional deficiencies and certain medical conditions, such as vitiligo, alopecia areata, and thyroid disorders, can also lead to premature greying.

"Modern lifestyle choices, including poor diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption, can accelerate oxidative stress and affect hair pigmentation," adds Dr Shitij Goel, HOD, dermatology, Sharda Care, NCR.

Dr Goel points out that millennials and Gen Zers are experiencing premature greying due to a mix of modern lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, dietary habits, and genetic predispositions. They often face higher stress levels, irregular sleep patterns, and poor nutrition, all of which can speed up the greying process.

Lifestyle is a major factor

"When it comes to premature greying of hair, lifestyle plays a major role, especially in fast-paced urban environments," says Dr Rachana Shilpakar, consultant dermatologist, Rainbow Children's Hospital, Bengaluru.

The pressure to achieve top ranks, meet office deadlines, and cope with sedentary, screen-bound lifestyles, along with poor sleep, is increasing oxidative stress.

The rise of fast food has worsened the problem, leading to widespread nutrient deficiencies, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, which are fuelling the issue like wildfire.

Blame the stress

It's important to understand that chronic stress triggers the release of norepinephrine, which causes melanocyte stem cells to overactivate and deplete the reservoir of pigment-producing cells. This decreases melanin production, leading to the appearance of grey hair.

Additionally, stress-induced hormonal changes can affect hair growth cycles and pigmentation.

However, Dr Santhanam notes that once the hair has turned grey, it cannot naturally revert to its original colour by merely reducing stress. Managing stress can prevent further greying and help maintain overall hair health.

Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, can help reduce the impact of stress on hair pigmentation.

"In some rare cases, particularly if the greying is stress-induced and caught very early, a small percentage of people might see some colour return to their hair after significant stress reduction. However, this is uncommon," adds Dr Mahajan.

Smoking and vaping aren't cool

Experts emphasise that smoking and vaping are linked to premature greying, as they cause oxidative stress and reduce blood flow to hair follicles, damaging melanocytes. The toxic substances in tobacco also disrupt melanin production, contributing to greying.

Let's talk about nutrient deficiencies

Dr Mahajan explains that vitamin and mineral deficiencies, along with hormonal imbalances, can contribute to premature greying.

"Low levels of iron, copper, and Vitamin B12 are particularly associated with early greying. Iron is crucial for DNA synthesis in hair follicles, while copper is essential for melanin production. A deficiency in Vitamin B12 can lead to pernicious anaemia, which affects melanin synthesis," he adds.

Thyroid imbalances, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, can also disrupt hair growth cycles and pigmentation.

Addressing these deficiencies requires a comprehensive approach:

• A thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, to identify specific deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
• Targeted supplementation under medical supervision to correct deficiencies.
• Dietary modifications to include nutrient-rich foods for long-term management.
• For thyroid issues, proper medication and regular monitoring are essential.

In some cases, addressing these underlying factors can potentially reverse premature greying, especially if caught early.

Can It be reversed?

"Premature greying of hair can sometimes be reversed if caused by correctable factors like nutritional deficiencies, thyroid imbalance, or oxidative stress," says Dr Goel.

However, Dr Santhanam explains that while premature greying cannot be fully reversed, addressing the underlying causes can slow down further greying.

Dr Mahajan agrees, noting that while complete reversal is generally not possible, several approaches may help slow its progression or restore some colour in certain cases.

Anti-grey topical treatments, such as those containing catalase, copper peptides, or melanin-stimulating compounds, aim to reduce oxidative stress and support melanocyte function. These can be worth trying, but they are more effective as preventive measures than as treatments for reversing grey hair. Results may vary widely depending on individual responses.

In addition to topical treatments, oral medications and supplements can be effective. Traditional remedies like Indian gooseberry (Amla), curry leaves, and henna are also worth exploring.

However, it's crucial to pair these treatments with lifestyle changes, including managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and environmental pollutants.