Grey hair in men: a sign of maturity or ageing? For most, however, it is more of an annoyance than a welcome change. In this article, you will learn why grey hair occurs, what causes premature greying, and how you can naturally counteract grey hair.
When and why does hair turn grey?
There are genetic and ethnic differences that influence the timing of greying. Most European men get their first grey hairs between the ages of 30 and 39, about five years earlier than women. In African and Asian men, grey hair usually appears later.
The term "grey hair" is a colloquial expression, as there are actually no grey hairs. In reality, the grey appearance is created by a mixture of pigmented and unpigmented, or white, hairs.
Greying, also known as achromotrichia, is a sign of the natural ageing process, alongside hair loss. As we age, the production of the hair pigment melanin can decrease, leading to the loss of hair colour. Genetic predisposition can cause the decrease in melanin production to start earlier.
Interesting fact
The first white hairs in men usually appear at the temples, as the growth phases of these hairs are shorter. This causes the production of colour pigments to stop earlier. Many men also notice white hairs in their beard early on.
Nutrient deficiencies, autoimmune and thyroid diseases, as well as stress, can also contribute to grey hair. Stress increases the release of noradrenaline and impairs the energy supply to the pigment-producing cells. Smoking, medication side effects, and hormonal changes can also affect melanin production and promote grey hair.
Two effective types of shampoo against grey hair
As grey hair increases, many turn to tinting or colouring. However, not everyone likes the effort or the obvious colour change. Surveys show that men prefer a more natural look and don't necessarily want to dye their hair. For those who don't want to dye their grey hair, there are subtle coverage options that darken their grey hair naturally (repigmentation).
Colour shampoos are popular for covering grey hair without changing the hair structure. They contain dark colour pigments that attach to the white hair from the outside and are washable.
Special active ingredients can repigment grey hair by forming colour pigments in the hair. This gradually restores the darker hair colour.
Cover grey hair effectively and gently
Colour shampoos are popular for covering grey hair without changing the hair structure. They attach to the hair from the outside and are washable.
Repigmentation: Naturally darken grey hair
Special active ingredients can repigment grey hair by forming colour pigments in the hair. This gradually restores the darker hair colour.
Answers to your questions
Early grey hair: What might cause grey hair in your 20's?
Although grey hair is often associated with age, it is also possible for young men to develop their first grey hairs in their 20s. In such cases, genetic factors are often the main cause.
If grey hair appears early, it is usually due to an inherited predisposition. If parents or grandparents already had grey hair at a young age, there is a higher probability that this will also be the case for the next generation.
However, other factors can also influence melanin production and cause hair to turn grey prematurely. If grey hair appears at an unusually young age, we recommend consulting a doctor or dermatologist to rule out possible underlying health problems.
Fortunately, Alpecin colour shampoos can tone down grey hair. For darker hair that doesn’t look dyed.
Does stress cause grey hair?
Stress can affect our bodies in many ways - and grey hair is one possible consequence. Chronic stress can impair the production of melanin and lead to premature greying of the hair.
It is therefore advisable to reduce stress as much as possible and use stress management techniques. Relaxation routines, regular exercise and sufficient sleep can help deal with stress and thus minimise possible effects on hair colour.
Recommended for you
Help with hereditary hair loss
Find out how you can effectively counteract hereditary hair loss - without the use of medication!
Causes and reasons for hair loss
Genetic predisposition is not the only factor that plays an important role in hair loss. Reduced blood circulation on the scalp, external environmental factors, stress and illness can also contribute to hair loss.
Help, my scalp itches!
Find out how you can effectively relieve itching. Discover our tips and products to help you manage your scalp problems and feel comfortable again.
Purely a matter of type: Find the ideal Alpecin for you
Discover which Alpecin product suits you best - tailored individually for strong hair and a healthy scalp.