Premature Graying Or White Hair In Kids: Causes And Prevention

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Noticing white or gray hair in children might cause concern in parents. The graying of hair in older adults is a natural process. But premature graying of hair in children is not.

Although the reason might be genetic in some children, it might also be associated with a health condition such as vitiligoⁱAn autoimmune condition that results in white patches or loss of skin color or neurofibromatosisⁱA rare genetic disorder that typically causes benign tumors in the skin and the nervous system . Thus, it is essential to get your child checked by a doctor if you start to notice the graying of their hair.

Read on to know more about the causes and treatment options available to help with this condition.

Possible Causes Of White Or Gray Hair In Children

Hair color comes from melanin pigment. Hair begins to gray or turn white due to a reduction in the melanin quantity. It usually happens with aging, but some other reasons may cause hair to turn white in children.

1. Genetics: It is one of the many factors responsible for premature graying of hair. According to a study, hair graying is inheritable, but the underlying mechanisms are elusive (1).

2. Nutritional deficiency: The lack of vitamin B12 may lead to the graying of hair. A research study on the young Indian population associated premature hair graying to the deficiency of calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3 (2).

3. Medical conditions: Genetic and autoimmune conditions such as Werner’s syndromeⁱA rare genetic disorder indicated by the symptoms associated with aging , vitiligo, and thyroid disease are associated with premature hypopigmentation of hair (3).

4. Synthetic hair products: Using shampoos, dyes, and lotions that have chemicals in them may also result in premature graying of hair at an early stage (4).

5. Exposure to smoke: While there are no scientific studies directly linking smoke exposure to gray and white hair in young children, research has shown that tobacco smoke causes nicotine build up in hair follicles and the hair shaft, leading to premature graying in adults. Hence, it is crucial to prevent children from smoke exposure to avoid these negative effects (5).

6. Anemia: Iron deficiency may cause anemia, affecting melanogenesis and hair color. This condition can make children feel fatigued and cause their hair to turn white. Pernicious anemia can also result in premature graying of hair in children (6).

7. Poliosis: Poliosis is characterized by the absence of melanin in hair, leading to hair graying due to a reduction in melanin. While poliosis can occur at any age, it often appears in childhood due to certain acquired and genetic conditions. Poliosis usually shows up as white hair in specific parts of the scalp. Children with poliosis may have lighter hair color, known as pigment dilution, or develop gray hair (7).

8. Other factors: Some external factors such as stress, exposure to pollution and UV rays may also be responsible for gray and white hair at a young age. These external factors could cause oxidative stress leading to premature graying of hair (8).

There is no single reason for the development of white hair in children. It may be a result of one factor or a combination of several factors. Spotting a white hair on your child can prompt you to look for a remedy.

Can Premature Graying Or White Hair Be Treated In Children?

There is no specific treatment for premature graying. Certain causes of white hair like faulty genes or autoimmune disorders may not have a cure. You may discuss with a pediatrician about the best course of treatment that could work for your child.

However, some measures may help control further graying of hair. For instance, having a nutritious diet and taking nutritional supplements (as prescribed by the doctor) may help the child in reducing white or gray hair.

Protection from harsh sun rays and a healthy sleep pattern may also help with graying and facilitate proper hair care.

Can White Hair Be Prevented?

If premature graying of hair is due to genetics, then it cannot be prevented. However, if it is due to a medical condition or due to diet or lifestyle changes, then you may be able to prevent white hair or worsening of it.

Tips To Prevent Premature Graying Of Hair

These measures may help children and people of a young age to prevent white or gray hair.

1. According to a study, massaging with coconut oil improves blood circulation, restores hair color, and prevents graying (9).

2. Adding foods rich in vitamin B12 and calcium supply nutrition to hair follicles and may prevent further graying of hair.

3. Treating the underlying diseases or medical conditions may stop the graying of hair.

4. The use of antioxidantsⁱCompounds that inhibit the oxidation process and protect the cells from damage  may help in the prevention of premature graying of hair. Some foods rich in antioxidants include berries, pomegranate, tomatoes, and pecans (10).

5. According to the International Journal of PharmTech Research, Murraya koenigii or curry leaves can help in the prevention of premature graying of hair (11).

6. A research study has found that Indian gooseberry prevents graying hair and also maintains the color (12)

7. Bhringraj or false daisy was used in traditional therapies for the premature graying of hair (10).
8. UV rays can damage hair follicles, causing gray or white hair. Almond oil, with its Vitamin E and fatty acids containing double bonds, helps protect against UV radiation (8) (14).

The preventive methods may or may not work for all children. Moreover, some children may be sensitive to natural or herbal remedies. Speak to your child’s doctor before trying any treatment for premature graying of hair in children.

Is It Okay To Pluck White Or Gray Hair?

Here’s a myth – Plucking one gray hair will give rise to several new gray hair.

Dr. Shashank Kraleti, UAMS family and preventive medicine physician, debunks it by saying, “Plucking strands of hair may traumatize the follicle and may even cause scar formation or infection. If you want to get rid of gray hair, you need to cut it off carefully (11).”

Can White Hair Turn Black Again Permanently?

White hair cannot turn black naturally. However, lifestyle changes and a balanced diet may help further whitening or graying of hair.

Can Children Dye Their Hair?

It depends on the age of your child and the cause behind the premature graying of hair. Dyeing is usually not recommended for school-going children because the dyes are often laden with chemicals that may be more harmful to children than adults. If white hair is causing distress to the child, and they insist on dyeing, then consult a doctor, who might suggest products that are safe for the child.

How To Help A Child Cope With White Or Gray Hair?

Helping a child cope with white or gray hair involves understanding their feelings and providing supportive guidance. Here are some steps to assist them:

• You can explain to them how anyone, regardless of age, can develop white or gray hair. Normalize their experience by letting them know it’s okay and natural.
• Encourage them to accept their own unique hair color. Emphasize the positive aspects and reassure them that their worth is not determined by the color of their hair.
• Educate them about hair pigmentation and the factors that affect changes in hair color. Understanding these aspects can help dispel fears and misunderstandings.
• Provide a secure environment here they can share any worries or uncertainties. Listen attentively and with empathy to grasp their point of view.
• Observe the child’s mood and inquire about their experiences to detect possible signs of bullying.
• If the child experiences bullying, they should be encouraged to seek support from trusted adults or safer peer groups.
• Consulting a counselor or therapist can assist the child in developing confidence and effective coping strategies.
• If necessary, seek advice from a dermatologist or pediatrician for additional support and to assess any potential medical issues.

It is not a common occurrence for kids to have white hair and if your child is one of the few you may wonder why this is happening. Check out this informative video exploring the potential causes of this phenomenon and also providing helpful advice.