What determines the colour of your hair?
Your hair colour is determined by pigment cells, also known as melanocytes. These are located at the bottom of the hair follicle and give your hair its colour. As we age, the stem cells that produce these pigment cells disappear. As a result, at some point your body stops producing pigment, which causes grey (or white) hair.
It makes sense that this usually happens as you get older. But what if you are still young and your hair is already turning grey?
How stress affects your hair colour
Stress is your body's natural response to tension or danger. It releases a substance called norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline). This substance is part of your “fight-or-flight” response. It helps you stay alert, increases your heart rate and blood pressure, and also appears to affect your hair roots.
Research in mice has shown that stress can cause the stem cells that produce pigment to become depleted. The increased stress causes the body to release norepinephrine, which “chases” the stem cells, as it were. The result? Pigment production stops and the hair turns grey.
This link has not yet been scientifically proven in humans, but it is a promising indication.
What can you do about stress-induced grey hair?
If stress really does influence your hair colour, it helps to tackle the cause. Think about relaxation, getting enough sleep, exercise and a good diet.
There are also products that can support your hair. The Neofollics anti-greying treatment has been specially developed to support hair from within in cases of pigment loss. It contains ingredients that contribute to a healthy pigment process and the preservation of your natural hair colour.
Neofollics Hair Technology's Anti-grey treatment is a powerful combination of three products that work together to effectively tackle grey hair. This complete routine consists of the Anti-grey serum, the Anti-grey tablets and the Anti-grey shampoo. Together, they support the restoration of your natural hair colour as well as improve the health of your hair and scalp.
Grey hair at a young age: what are the causes?
It's not just stress and age that play a role. Your health can also influence the development of grey hair:
Are you suddenly noticing a lot of grey hairs at a young age? Then it may be a good idea to have your blood checked or consult your doctor.
Stress and hair loss: what's the connection?
Another proven and common consequence of stress is hair loss. A well-known form is called telogen effluvium. This is when hair falls out temporarily faster than normal, often several weeks or months after a stressful period. Although the hair usually grows back, the new hair can sometimes be greyer, especially if you are genetically predisposed to greying. In other words, stress can accelerate the process, but heredity typically plays a greater role.
Conclusion: does stress really turn your hair grey?
Yes, stress could contribute to grey hair, but it is frequently not the only cause. Heredity, age, and health regularly play a greater role. Nevertheless, it is clear that prolonged stress has an effect on your body and your hair. By taking good care of yourself and using the right products, you can support your hair.
