White hair is one of the first visible signs of aging, and many people try to postpone this moment for as long as possible! But what really happens to our hair when it loses color? And, above all, why does it turn white?

White hair: hated and feared by many, but also loved and embraced by many people. The acceptance or rejection of gray hair largely depends on our personal perspective: there is nothing wrong, of course, with having white or gray hair in itself. In our society, men with white or salt-and-pepper hair are generally more represented and thus accepted, while it is quite unusual to see women who are not elderly with white hair. Yet this phenomenon, just like in men, can occur before old age and does not have a direct correlation with it. White hair can appear as early as 25 or 30 years old! Therefore, the non-acceptance of white hair is mostly an issue of representation rather than a real problem.

In this article, we will explore the causes of white hair, debunk some myths, and provide tips on how to prevent them, keep them healthy, and care for them properly, because all hair deserves to be valued and to look its best!

Here’s a particular overview of what we will cover: 

• White hair: causes and myths to debunk
• When white hair appears
• Lifestyle and Diet: allies in prevention
  • Essential vitamins and minerals for healthy hair
• Natural remedies to prevent white hair
• Practical tips to maintain natural color
• The perfect hair routine for white hair
• Conclusion

White hair: causes and myths to debunk

White hair is a natural phenomenon that occurs with aging, but this is not the case for everyone, as many people start to see it even in their youth. The timing of their appearance varies from person to person, and several factors can influence it.

Of course, just as with the processes affecting the condition of the skin at different stages of our lives, we also see a slowdown in the activity of the cells in our body here.

The appearance of white hair is primarily due to a reduction in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of hair (and skin), produced by melanocytes located in the hair follicles. With age, these melanocytes become less active, eventually ceasing the production of melanin entirely, leading to the emergence of hair devoid of pigment and, consequently, white.

The main causes include:

• Natural Aging: very generally speaking, after the age of 30-40, most people begin to notice the first signs of white hair.
• Heritage: here, genetics plays (unfortunately or fortunately!) a crucial role. If your parents started to see white hair at a young age, it’s likely that you will follow the same pattern.
• Stress: although not directly responsible, stress can accelerate the aging process of hair follicles
• Nutritional Deficiencies: a lack of vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, iron, and B vitamins, can affect hair health and contribute to the premature appearance of white hair
• Hormonal Imbalances: The production of melanin by cells can be negatively influenced by hormonal imbalances.
• Diseases: Conditions like thyroid disorders and vitiligo can also be causes of premature graying.

There are also several myths about white hair

So, some believe that white hair is caused solely by prolonged daily stress, while others think it is completely hereditary.

Actually, a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors is what can significantly influence the onset of white hair

When white hair appears

The appearance of white hair is a subjective phenomenon that varies significantly from person to person.

In general, women tend to show the first signs of graying around the ages of 35-40, while for men, the process usually begins between 30 and 35 years old. However, these age ranges are purely indicative and can vary based on numerous factors, including genetic ones, as mentioned in the previous section.

It can happen, in fact, that the first white hairs appear as early as between 20 and 25 years old. In these cases, we are witnessing a phenomenon known as premature graying, which is not linked to health problems but rather depends essentially on the activity of DNA, which regulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color.

Lifestyle and Diet: allies in prevention

As we know, following a healthy diet, maintaining an active lifestyle, and limiting alcohol consumption are key points for the health of skin and hair, as the nutrients we take in directly influence their condition and appearance.

Earlier, we mentioned nutritional deficiencies as possible causes of the appearance of white hair.

Diets rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help improve the health of the scalp and hair follicles.

Some essential vitamins and minerals can aid in keeping hair healthy and strong, delaying the graying process.

Let’s take a closer look at them.

Essential vitamins and minerals for healthy hair:

Among all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in hair health.

The best ally is definitely copper, which stimulates the production of melanin in the body, but other important vitamins support us as well, such as:

Biotin: Biotin contributes to hair wellness.
B Vitamins, such as niacin, which improves circulation in the scalp, and pyridoxine, which promotes melanin production.
Vitamin B12: essential for red blood cell production and the health of hair follicles.
Vitamin B5: involved in the protective mechanisms of skin and hair.
Vitamin E: helps improve circulation in the scalp.
Vitamin D: supports the growth and regeneration of hair follicles.
Iron: a deficiency in iron can weaken hair and accelerate depigmentation.
Zinc: essential for the regeneration of follicles and preventing hair loss.
Selenium: contributes to protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Natural remedies to prevent white hair

There are various natural remedies that can help prevent the onset of white hair. Coconut oil, for example, is known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties, especially when massaged into the scalp, improving the health of hair follicles.

The use of herbs such as Amla (Indian gooseberry) and black tea can also help maintain the natural color of hair. Both are rich in antioxidants and can be used as masks or rinses for hair.

Here’s a key outline for keeping your hair healthy and shiny:

Coconut Oil and Curry Leaves: this combination is used in many cultures to nourish hair and maintain natural color. Simply apply the mixture to the hair and gently massage it in.
Henna: in addition to covering white hair, henna has nourishing properties that strengthen hair.
Amla: rich in vitamin C, amla is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.
Rosemary Oil: an excellent sebum regulator for the scalp, it also has a stimulating effect on hair follicles. Ideal for scalp massages, it can be mixed with a neutral oil such as castor oil or coconut oil to stimulate hair growth. 

Practical tips to maintain natural color

To delay the appearance of white hair, it is essential to take care of the scalp and hair.

How? By using gentle products specific to your hair type, regularly massaging the scalp to stimulate blood circulation, and also avoiding the well-known oxidative stress.

In reality, in our daily lives, we can engage in many actions that, over time, attack and weaken our hair!

To maintain the natural color of hair, it is essential to:

• Avoid excessive heat: overuse of hairdryers, straighteners, or curling irons can damage the hair structure and accelerate the loss of melanin.
  Choose gentle shampoos and conditioners: too harsh products can stress the scalp and negatively impact hair health.
  Avoid washing too frequently.
  Use hair products rich in antioxidants and protect hair from UV damage.
  Regularly massage the scalp: massaging the scalp promotes blood circulation, improving nutrient supply to the hair follicles.

The perfect Hair Routine for white hair

As we have seen, one of the fundamental points for having beautiful and healthy white hair is the use of hair products rich in antioxidants. Hair indeed suffers from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which leads to graying and premature hair loss. To counteract this phenomenon, antioxidants are very useful as they help balance free radicals and prevent their harmful effects.

The Organic Blueberry and Arginine Shampoo is rich in antioxidants: the constitutional water of organic black blueberry, vitamin E, and arginine counteract oxidative action and its direct consequences on the scalp and hair. It contains strengthening Amla extract, rich in tannins that combat graying and preserve the shine and vibrancy of color.

Arginine helps limit moisture loss from the hair shaft and keeps the hair hydrated and flexible, reducing breakage. Betaine and Isomerate Sugar hydrate, while fruit acids (AHA) have a smoothing and shining effect on the hair shaft.

The gentle surfactants of 100% plant origin come from fruits, sugars, and sunflower oil. The fragrant notes of juicy red fruits harmoniously blend to scent the hair and delight the senses.

To complete the treatment, we can use the Anti-yellowing hair mask: yellow tones on white and gray hair tend to make it look dull and lifeless. This mask is designed to revitalize the hair and enhance the neutral and cool shades of white, blonde, and gray hair. The 100% natural violet pigment neutralizes unwanted yellow tones.

Organic blueberry, organic Amla, and arginine are natural antioxidants that help counteract premature graying and protect the vibrancy of color. Beetroot, betaine, and flax seeds keep hair hydrated, flexible, and soft! The scent is an intense and successful blend of juicy red fruits. The slightly acidic pH of this mask seals the hair cuticles, keeping them disciplined, compact, and healthier. The shampoo + mask treatment is also available in a kit.

Conclusion

White hair is a natural sign of the passage of time, but there are many actions you can take to prevent or slow down its appearance!

A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and the use of natural remedies can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your hair. Experiment with the solutions that suit you best and enjoy healthy, vibrant hair while keeping your natural color longer.

Not sure how to take care of your scalp and hair?

Take the test and discover how your hair can shine with the power of Nature!