Noticing the first strands of grey hair can feel surprising, whether it happens in your twenties or much later in life. For some people, it is a slow process where a few silver strands appear gradually, while for others greying can seem to happen almost overnight. Although often associated with ageing, grey hair is not just about getting older. The reasons behind it are both biological and environmental, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and changes within the body that affect the way hair is produced and maintained.

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How Hair Gets Its Colour

To understand why hair turns grey, it is important to look at how hair gets its natural colour. Hair pigment comes from cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, the same pigment that gives skin and eyes their shade. When hair is forming inside the follicle, melanin is infused into the strand, determining whether the hair will be blonde, brown, red, or black. The amount and type of melanin vary from person to person and this is why there is such a wide range of natural hair colours.

The Role of Ageing

As we age, melanocytes gradually slow down and eventually stop producing melanin altogether. Without pigment, new hair that grows out of the follicle appears grey or white. This process is a natural part of ageing and the rate at which it happens depends largely on genetics. For some, greying begins in their early twenties, while others may not notice a change until their fifties. The timing of when you go grey is strongly influenced by family history, meaning if your parents or grandparents experienced early greying, you are more likely to as well.

Oxidative Stress and Lifestyle Factors

Research suggests that oxidative stress also plays a role in greying hair. This refers to the imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals can damage cells, including melanocytes, and over time this may contribute to the reduction of melanin in hair. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, poor diet, lack of sleep, or high stress levels may increase oxidative stress, potentially accelerating the greying process. While everyday habits alone do not guarantee premature greying, they can influence how quickly changes appear.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Health Links

In some cases, nutritional factors can be linked to early greying. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, copper, or zinc, can affect the production of melanin. Ensuring a balanced diet that includes these nutrients supports overall hair health, though it cannot necessarily prevent natural greying. Occasionally, grey hair may also be associated with underlying health conditions that influence pigmentation, but for most people, it is simply a matter of ageing and genetics.

Collagen and Hair Health

Although collagen does not directly prevent hair from turning grey, it supports the health of the hair follicle and the surrounding skin. Collagen provides amino acids that are used in the production of keratin, the main protein in hair, which contributes to stronger and healthier strands. By helping to maintain the structure around the follicle, collagen can support hair growth and resilience, even if it cannot restore pigment once it has been lost. This is why collagen supplements are often chosen as part of a wider routine for maintaining the quality of hair as it changes with age.

Accepting Grey Hair

In the past, many people saw grey hair as something to hide, often turning to dyes to cover it up. Today, more people are embracing their natural silver strands as a sign of individuality and confidence. Grey hair can be striking and beautiful when cared for properly, and treatments designed for silver or white hair can enhance its shine and tone. Products that reduce yellowing and keep hair soft and hydrated are particularly useful for those making the transition.

Final Thoughts

Grey hair is a natural process that reflects changes in melanin production, influenced by age, genetics, and lifestyle. While it is not possible to stop the process entirely, supporting hair health through good nutrition, gentle care, and collagen supplementation can help hair remain strong and vibrant. Whether you choose to cover greys or embrace them, understanding why the change happens can make the process feel less daunting and more like a natural stage of life.

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