“He’s Going Gray at 12?!” #hair

“He’s Going Gray at 12?!” #hair.

The production of gray hair is a result of changes within the hair follicle, specifically involving the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Hair color is determined by the type and amount of melanin produced by these melanocytes. There are two main types of melanin: eumelanin (responsible for brown and black hair) and pheomelanin (responsible for red and yellow hues).

As we age, several factors contribute to the graying process:

Reduction in Melanocyte Activity: Over time, melanocytes gradually produce less melanin. This decrease in pigment production leads to hair strands losing their color and turning gray or white.

Melanocyte Depletion: In some cases, the number of active melanocytes in the hair follicle diminishes. When these cells die off and are not replaced, the hair that grows from the follicle lacks melanin, resulting in gray or white hair.

Oxidative Stress: The buildup of hydrogen peroxide in the hair follicle can bleach the hair from the inside out. Normally, an enzyme called catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. As we age, the production of catalase decreases, leading to an accumulation of hydrogen peroxide, which interferes with melanin production.

Genetic Factors: Genetics play a significant role in determining when and how quickly an individual’s hair will turn gray. Family history can be a strong predictor of the onset and progression of graying hair.

#aging #beauty