Premature gray hair can be caused by disruptions in the body’s production of melanin, which is responsible for the color of our hair. As we age, our bodies gradually produce less melanin, causing our hair to turn gray and eventually white. However, premature graying can occur in some young individuals due to disturbances in melanin production within the hair follicles.
Dr. Thai Thanh Yen from the Department of Dermatology – Skin Aesthetics at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that continuously pulling out gray hair can damage hair follicles, making it difficult for them to recover and leading to thinning and hair loss. Despite the desire to remove white strands by pulling them out, this habit can lead to serious damage such as infections and pustules in the hair follicle area.
Repeatedly plucking hair can increase post-inflammatory pigmentation, resulting in irreversible damage to hair follicles, loss of function, and decreased hair cycles, leading to thinner and sparser hair. Therefore, it is advised not to pull out gray hair. There is currently no complete treatment for premature gray hair, but individuals can take steps to prevent or minimize its occurrence through various methods such as taking vitamins B12 or biotin supplements or adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.