08 / 06 / 13

Are Certain Hair Colors More Likely to Go Grey?

It’s no secret that all hair colors generally grey as the person ages. If you’re wondering why some individuals grey faster than others, it usually can be associated with genetic disposition, but one question that many people have is whether the rate of grey hairs growing in is different among the various hair colors.

Why Does Hair Turn Grey?

Very simply, hair turns grey because of age and begins when your body stops producing melanin. Your hair grows out of a follicle which has cells filled with melanin. As you age, the amount of melanin decreases and with the declining presence of melanin your hair becomes lighter in color and dryer in texture. Typically, the average male will see grey hairs in their early 30’s while average females see grey hairs in their mid 30’s.

Other Outside Factors for Grey Hair

Over the years, scientists have discovered that outside factors may also contribute to the early signs of grey hair. The majority of these are lifestyle choices that may be prevented. They include:

  • Smoking
  • Illness
  • Drug Use
  • Deficiency of Vitamin B-12 (according to CNN)

Does it Matter What Hair Color I Have?

As of today, there does not seem to be any correlation between the various hair colors vs. the rate of hair turning grey. Melanin comes in two basic varieties, eumalanin and phaeomelanin, which combine in different proportions to create the vast array of hair colors. The grey color you see in hair depends more on the steady decline in the number of these pigment –producing cells than the proportion of the basic varieties.

At New Image Hair Clinic, you matter. How you feel about your hair loss and making the right choice to solve it matters. We encourage you to take the time and review your options. Then come in for a no cost, no obligation private hair loss consultation.