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What causes premature greying, and can vitamins restore hair colour?

Quick answer

Genetics strongly influences when hair greys. Health conditions or nutritional deficiency may contribute in some people. No supplement reliably restores colour for everyone. Treating an identified deficiency or disease does not guarantee that every grey hair will regain pigment.

Details

When can assessment help?

Discuss age at onset, family history, speed of change, hair loss, fatigue or a restrictive diet. A clinician decides whether targeted tests are useful rather than assuming a particular deficiency in everyone.

Be cautious with treatment promises

Shampoos, oils and hair supplements are not guaranteed treatments for greying. Excess supplements may be harmful. Avoid iron or large biotin doses without an indication, and discuss possible effects on laboratory testing.

Care and appearance choices

Keeping natural colour or using an appropriate dye are personal options; follow product allergy-testing instructions. Plucking does not prevent greying and may thin hair. Balanced nutrition and avoiding smoking support health without guaranteeing prevention of grey hair.

Related reading: What causes eyebrow hair loss, and can it grow back?.

Note: This answer is for educational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a specialist who examines your case in person. Do not use it for self-diagnosis.

References

  1. Causes of grey hair — American Academy of Dermatology
  2. Hair loss self-care — American Academy of Dermatology
  3. Biotin interference with laboratory tests — US FDA