Nutrition plays a critical role in hair pigmentation.
Key Nutrients for Hair Color
- Vitamin B12
- Iron
- Copper
- Zinc
- Folate
- Vitamin D
Deficiencies—especially B12—are strongly associated with early greying.
Vitamin B12 and Hair Pigmentation
Low B12 can impair melanin production.
Signs of Possible B12-Related Greying
- Early onset (before 30)
- Fatigue
- Tingling or numbness
- Memory issues
In some cases, correcting B12 deficiency has led to partial repigmentation.
Copper: The Forgotten Mineral
Copper plays a direct role in melanin synthesis.
Low Copper May Cause
- Loss of hair pigment
- Premature greying
Copper deficiency is uncommon but possible in restrictive diets or malabsorption disorders.
Stress and Hair Greying: Is There a Link?
Yes—but it’s complex.
How Stress May Affect Hair Color
- Increases oxidative stress
- Triggers inflammatory responses
- May damage melanocyte stem cells
Reducing stress won’t magically reverse grey hair—but it may slow progression.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help?
Lifestyle changes won’t reverse age-related greying—but they can:
- Support overall hair health
- Slow further pigment loss
- Improve hair texture and shine
Helpful Habits
- Balanced nutrition
- Stress management
- Avoid smoking
- Protect hair from UV damage
- Gentle hair care
Healthy follicles age more slowly.
Natural Approaches: What They Can and Can’t Do
Oils (Coconut, Amla, Castor)
- Improve hair texture and shine
- May darken hair slightly due to coating
- Do NOT restore melanin production
Herbs (Amla, Bhringraj, Henna)
- Some temporarily darken hair
- May strengthen follicles
- Effects are cosmetic, not biological
Can Grey Hair Become Darker Naturally?
continued on next page
