Carrying your grey hair with pride

BY SYLVESTER OJENAGBON

Half of the people in the world are said to have a significant amount of grey hair by age 50. However, there are observed differences as to when people of different ethnicities start greying. For White people, it is typically in their mid-30s; for Asian people, it is in their late 30s; and for Black people, it is in their mid-40s.

Greying is considered premature when it starts much earlier, and this occurs before age 20 for White people, before age 25 for Asian people, and before age 30 for Black people.

Now, more than anything else, genetics have been found to play a major role in greying. One is likely to go grey early if one’s parents or grandparents went grey early. 

The truth is that hair colour comes from melanin, which is a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes in hair follicles. Melanocyte activity decreases as we age, and this leads to less melanin production. This results in grey, culminating eventually in white hair.   

An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, known as oxidative stress, can also damage melanocytes and contribute to greying. And factors like UV radiation, pollution, and unhealthy lifestyles often increase oxidative stress. 

Equally associated with premature greying is smoking; this can damage hair follicles and contribute to oxidative stress.    

Vitamin D, copper, iron, and B vitamins (especially B12) deficiencies can similarly play a role in premature greying. Certain medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases like vitiligo and alopecia areata, thyroid disorders, and some rare genetic conditions, can also be a factor in greying.

Although the link is still being researched, studies have suggested that chronic stress can likewise contribute to premature greying. Stress can affect the stem cells that regenerate hair pigment. 

Many people usually want to get rid of their grey hair because they prefer to maintain a youthful look. Sometimes, it is because they feel it negatively impacts their self-esteem. So, the question is: can greying be reversed? The answer is complex and depends on a number of factors. 

If greying is caused by certain autoimmune diseases, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiency (like B12), tackling the underlying condition might sometimes restore some hair colour. In the same vein, correcting deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as copper, iron, and vitamin B12, could potentially slow or, in very rare cases, slightly reverse greying. This, however, is more about preventing further greying instead of reversing existing grey hair. 

Some studies also suggest that reducing significant stress might, in rare instances, allow some repigmentation. However, this is not a guaranteed result. And some hair products, while not reversing greying, have been found to enhance the appearance of grey hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant.

Hair dye however remains the most reliable way to cover grey hair for the majority of people. Permanent formulations can fully saturate grey hairs, effectively concealing them and providing a uniform colour. And the market offers a vast range of hair dye colours. This allows people to match their natural hair colour, experiment with new shades, or blend greys seamlessly. Permanent hair dye considerably reduces the frequency of touch-ups, as it can last for several weeks. 

It is advisable, though, to consult with a dermatologist or health professional before starting any new hair treatment, as people react differently to hair products and treatments.

But if you want to carry your grey hair with confidence, you need to first convince yourself that it is nothing to be ashamed of; in fact, it is something to be proud of. After all, not everyone has the privilege of growing old enough to experience it. Then be ready to deal with negative opinions. 

Hearteningly, there is already a growing acceptance–even celebration–of natural grey hair globally. The narrative surrounding grey hair is shifting—from social media trends to salon transformations. In fact, it is moving away from just being a sign of ageing towards being a symbol of wisdom, authenticity, and personal style. And this culture shift is being spearheaded by influencers, celebrities, and everyday people who are proudly displaying their natural silver or white hair.

So, there is absolutely no reason why you should hide or be ashamed of your grey hair. This is more so when people (especially the younger ones) are already embracing it as a fashion style, colouring their hair grey. Many young men are proudly showing off even their grey beards. 

A number of women—young and old—are no longer hiding their grey hair; they are choosing to embrace this natural beauty. The rise of the “silver sisterhood” on platforms like TikTok and Instagram has played a vital role in this shift. Many are flaunting their spectacular white, silver, and grey looks.

The beauty industry is equally responding to this trend. Salons now offer specialised grey blending and enhancing techniques. Products designed to brighten and nourish grey hair are similarly gaining popularity. So, there is every encouragement to go with the flow.  

Ultimately, the journey to embracing grey hair is a deeply personal one, but I believe it is one worth embarking on. After all, it is a chapter in the story of one’s life, and that story ought to be told with pride.

Ojenagbon, a health communication expert, lives in Lagos.