Noticing a bit of grey in your hair can be alarming, especially if you weren’t expecting it. Depending on your circumstances and genetics, it’s possible to start seeing gray hair as early as the teen years! Fortunately, if you’re looking for something a little more effective than dying, there are a few treatments a dermatologist can provide that can help you get back to full color.
Continue reading to learn more.
What Causes Gray Hair?
Melanin is a pigment that gives your hair color. How dark your hair is directly correlated to the amount of melanin in your hair. Your hair color gradually grays because your body stops producing as much melanin as you age. At some point, the body stops producing melanin in your hair altogether.
A few reasons you might experience premature graying include:
- Genetics – Unfortunately, genetics play a big part in when you go gray. If you had a parent who experienced something similar, you are far more likely to gray.
- Medical issues – Certain medical conditions may be related to premature graying. Vitiligo, specific thyroid issues, and imbalances in your pituitary gland may all contribute.
- Not enough nutrients – If you aren’t getting enough vitamin B2 or certain minerals like iron and manganese, your body may produce less melanin, which causes early greying.
- Stress – If you’ve been through a period of long-term stress, you might see some (We’re looking at you, pandemic)
Can My Dermatologist Treat Gray Hair?
If you express your concern about premature gray hair to your medical dermatologist, they may suggest treatments beyond hair dye.
While hair dye is a common option, your dermatologist may suggest additional treatments for premature gray hair.
- Lifestyle and Diet: Initial steps often involve adopting a healthier lifestyle. Reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption, managing stress, and incorporating vitamin-rich foods that support melanin production can help address premature graying.
- Medical Interventions: If lifestyle changes are insufficient, medical treatments may be considered. These can include topical creams, shampoos, or other products applied directly to the hair. In some cases, underlying medical conditions contributing to gray hair, such as thyroid disease, may require specific treatment.
It’s important to remember that the most successful gray hair treatments happen in patients who gray prematurely, and gray hair is easier to prevent than reverse. If you want to find out whether or not gray hair is treatable in your case, contact your dermatologist.
Of course, we offer more cosmetic procedures than just gray hair treatment. Experience a complete transformation with Botox, a chemical peel, laser skin resurfacing, and a range of other rejuvenating treatments.
Want to set up an appointment today? Get in contact with us, and we’ll be happy to find a day and time that works for you!