Wellness  

Is Grey Hair Reversible?

By Adenike Baderin

21 November 2024   |   10:55 am

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  Legend has it that Marie Antoinette’s hair turned grey overnight just before her beheading in 1791. While this is likely a myth, it accentuates the emotional weight people associate with grey hair. Today, many go to great lengths—dyeing their hair and purchasing expensive darkening creams—to hide streaks of white. But what actually causes grey…

Legend has it that Marie Antoinette’s hair turned grey overnight just before her beheading in 1791. While this is likely a myth, it accentuates the emotional weight people associate with grey hair. Today, many go to great lengths—dyeing their hair and purchasing expensive darkening creams—to hide streaks of white. But what actually causes grey hair, and is it reversible?

What Causes Grey Hair?

Genetics, age, and stress are the most common factors behind grey hair. If the cause is genetic, there is no reversing what is preprogrammed in a person’s DNA.

However, environmental and lifestyle factors also play a significant role. Exposure to certain chemicals, sun damage, smoking, and vitamin deficiencies (such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, or Zinc) can contribute to premature greying. Stress can speed up the process of the hair turning white, but reducing stress alone may not restore your natural hair color.

READ ALSO: Is stress contributing to your hair loss?

Is it Reversible?

A study published in eLife analyzed the possibility of reversing grey hair. Researchers examined hair strands from about a dozen individuals of various ages, ethnicities, and genders. Remarkably, some grey hairs regained their original color, a development linked to periods of reduced stress. This suggests a connection between psychological well-being and hair pigmentation.

Martin Picard, a mitochondrial psychobiologist at Columbia University, theorized that this variability reflects cellular aging patterns, with some hair cells being more resilient than others. However, he cautioned against oversimplifying these findings: “Reducing stress in a 70-year-old who’s been grey for years won’t darken their hair, just as increasing stress in a 10-year-old won’t necessarily tip their hair over the grey threshold.”

While it can be caused by genetics or age is irreversible, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing stress might play a role in preventing or even reversing environmental or stress-induced greying. Consistent care for your hair—like protecting it from sun damage, avoiding harsh chemicals, and ensuring a nutrient-rich diet—can make all the difference.