The Truth About Gray Hair

There are a lot myths surrounding gray hair. Nobody wants to look older, but the truth is that there isn't much we can do about it beyond dying our hair. Continue reading to find out the myths and truths of gray hair.

Truth: Ethnicity helps determine the age at which you go gray.

At age 50, most people will have about 50% gray hair. White people tend to start graying in their mid-thirties, Asians in the late thirties, while blacks tend to start graying in the mid-forties.

Myth: Graying hair can be reversed.

You can't take or eat anything to restore your hair's color. The only way to do it is by dying it.

Myth: Graying hair indicates a short lifespan.

Gray hair has absolutely no relation to longevity.

Myth: Stress causes gray hair.

Stress has nothing to do with gray hair. The onset is determined by genetics. The one rare exception is alopecia areata, which is an autoimmune disease is likely brought on by stress. This condition causes the loss of colored hair and can cause full graying in just a few weeks.

Myth: Plucking gray hair increases the growth of gray hair.

Plucking gray hair does not increase the amount of gray hair you have.

Truth: Gray hair is difficult to dye

Gray hair fibers are wider and contain air that makes them less permeable and therefore hard to dye.

Myth: Sun causes gray hair.

While sun can lighten hair, it does not cause hair to go gray.

Myth: Smoking causes gray hair.

While smoking is very bad for your health, it does not cause gray hair.

Truth: Hormone levels can cause gray hair.

Occasionally, a hormone imbalance or a thyroid problem can result in gray hair. If you are suddenly going gray and not feeling like yourself, you may want to consult a doctor.

Related Articles