Grey hair is a natural part of life, often seen as a hallmark of getting older. But have you ever wondered what causes your hair to lose its colour? 

Is it stress, genetics, or something else entirely? Let’s check some of the reasons behind this fascinating change.

The role of genetics

The biggest influence on when and how your hair turns grey is your genes. If your parents or grandparents started greying early, chances are you might too. Hair gets its colour from melanin, a pigment produced in hair follicles. 

As we age, these follicles produce less melanin, causing the hair to grow out grey, silver, or white. This process is hardwired in your DNA, so you can thank (or blame) your ancestors for your hair’s timeline.

Stress: Not the whole story

It’s a common belief that stress turns hair grey overnight. While stress does have an impact on our overall health, it doesn’t directly change the colour of your hair. Instead, stress can speed up a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair falls out faster than usual. 

When new hair grows back, it may appear grey if melanin production has already slowed down due to age.

Age and the natural cycle

Hair doesn’t actually “turn” grey. Once a strand grows out, its colour is set. As you age, hair follicles gradually produce less pigment. When older hairs fall out and regenerate, they are more likely to grow back without colour. 

Most people start noticing grey hairs in their mid-30s, but the timing can vary widely based on genetics and lifestyle.

Other factors

While genetics and age are the main culprits, certain health conditions can also cause premature greying. Vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid imbalances, and autoimmune conditions like vitiligo or alopecia areata can affect hair pigmentation. 

Smoking has also been linked to early greying, showing that lifestyle choices play a role too.

Embracing the Change

Grey hair is often seen as a sign of wisdom and maturity, but society can make us feel insecure about it. Instead of dreading the change, why not embrace it? Many people find confidence in their natural look, celebrating grey hair as part of their unique identity.

A positive mindset can make all the difference. Viewing ageing as a natural process rather than a loss helps us focus on the joys of life experience, growth, and new opportunities. 

So, when those first grey strands appear, see them as a badge of honour rather than a sign of decline. Grey hair is just another chapter in the story of life, and it’s up to you how you choose to write it.