Now Reading
Dear Men, You Might Be Going Gray For These Reasons

Dear Men, You Might Be Going Gray For These Reasons

hair-going-gray-graying-style-rave

A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Trichology reveals that by age 50, 50% of people will experience graying hair. If you’ve already spotted a few gray strands, don’t fret—going gray is a natural part of life. While stress is often cited as a culprit, the reality is much more nuanced, involving a variety of factors. Let’s explore the most common causes of graying hair and discuss what you can do to manage or potentially delay the process.

The Difference Between Gray and White Hair

Many people assume that gray and white hair are simply different shades of the same phenomenon, but there’s more to the story. Gray hair still contains some melanin, the pigment responsible for your hair color, while white hair lacks it entirely. This distinction explains why white hair often has a fluffier or frizzier texture, whereas gray hair can feel smoother. Ultimately, both are the result of a reduction in melanin production.

Why Does Hair Go Gray?

#1. Lack of cleanliness

Maintaining a clean, healthy scalp is essential not only for the condition of your hair but also for its color. Regular washing and mindful selection of hair care products can make a significant difference. Opt for shampoos, conditioners, and treatments with natural active ingredients, steering clear of harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances. Using high-quality, gentle products can promote overall hair health, potentially helping to slow the graying process.

#2. Styling tools

hair-going-gray-graying-style-rave
Photo: MJ Kim/Getty Images

While heat styling tools, chemical treatments, and harsh hair products can help you achieve specific looks, they may also damage your hair follicles and accelerate the graying process. To counteract this, consider moisturizing your hair with oils and serums to minimize damage. Treating your hair with care is one of the simplest ways to maintain its health and potentially delay graying.

#3. What you eat

Your diet significantly impacts hair health, and consuming nutrient-rich foods can help slow the graying process. In particular, Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in maintaining hair pigmentation.

Vitamin B12 is essential for cell regeneration; without adequate levels, melanocyte production—crucial for hair color—can diminish, leading to premature graying, especially in those following vegetarian or vegan diets. To boost your B12 intake, consider incorporating sources like liver or red meat into your meals, or opt for a daily supplement.

#4. Stress: The common culprit

hair-going-gray-graying-style-rave
Photo: fordbarrington/Pintrest

We’ve all heard the saying that stress can cause gray hair, and while it may seem like a myth, research supports this claim. A 2020 study on mice demonstrated that stress can indeed lead to greying.

However, not everyone responds to stress in the same way. Chronic, long-term stress is particularly linked to early graying. When stressed, the body releases adrenaline—the hormone associated with the fight-or-flight response—which may contribute to the graying process. Identifying and managing sources of stress can help mitigate their impact on your hair.

#5. Smoking

If you’re worried about going gray, quitting smoking could be one of the most significant lifestyle changes you can make. Smoking is strongly linked to accelerated graying.

The toxins in cigarettes induce oxidative stress, which damages the healthy cells responsible for producing melanin. This breakdown of melanin-producing cells can lead to premature graying. By quitting smoking, you not only enhance your overall health but may also slow the graying process.

#6. Your genetics

Sometimes, graying hair is simply a matter of genetics. Just as your eye color or height is predetermined, the timing of when your hair begins to gray is often inherited.

Genetics significantly influences both the onset and extent of gray hair. If your parents or grandparents experienced early graying, chances are you may too. This phenomenon, known as premature graying (or canities), is largely unavoidable. However, there’s no need to fret—embracing your gray strands can be empowering. Celebrities like Rick Fox demonstrate just how stylish gray hair can be!

Shop hair care products for healthy hair

 

Featured image: Greg Williams for Idris Elba


For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_


—Read Also

Subscribe

Never miss the latest. Subscribe Now

    Style Rave participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

    All rights reserved. No digital content on this website may not be reproduced, published, broadcasted, cached, rewritten, or redistributed in whole or in part without prior
    express written permission from STYLE RAVE. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

    Copyright © 2024 Style Rave NG LLC, dba STYLE RAVE

    Scroll To Top