Is it normal to have gray hair in your 20s?

When it comes to gray hair, we are not all created equal. Some people see them very young, while others won’t see them appear until after menopause. “It’s all about genetics and heredity. But there’s also the ‘ethnic’ aspect that comes into play,” explains Melanie Froliger, Head of Clinical Hair Research at the René Furterer and Pierre Fabre Group. “Caucasians are generally seen to start graying in their mid-30s, while Asians in their late 30s and Africans in their mid-40s. And this without differences between men and women.

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Outside of this average, some even begin to notice some in their hair in their twenties. There is nothing to worry about, according to the specialist. “Premature appearance of white hair is also related to heredity, it is genetically programmed. You should ask your close family, parents, to find out at what age they first had it,” advises Melanie Froliger, who assures that “if it happens gradually, it’s normal.”

On the other hand, “if it’s an excessive and regular appearance of white hair, don’t hesitate to see a doctor.” Indeed, these symptoms can potentially indicate pathologies such as poliosis, albinism, rashes of drug or chemical origin.

Triggers:

If genetics plays an important role, other elements can also hasten the early arrival of these gray locks. “The appearance of the first gray hair is a phenomenon under the strong influence of stress, which can be cumulative or sudden. But also from other external factors like pollution or UV rays,” continues Melanie Frogiger.

Nutrition, micronutrients and medication can also affect their discoloration; Finally, the drug, chemical or hormonal origin can also accelerate or stimulate it,” adds the specialist. In general, the first affected areas are around the face, scalp and temples.

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In such a situation, there is still hope to restore your natural hair color. In most cases no, but it can be. “Indeed, some white hairs regain their color when they stop being stressed,” concludes the specialist.