ALBAWABA - A recent study has provided evidence that stress may indeed cause hair to turn gray in humans. While it has long been known that hair loses its pigmentation as we age, the role of stress in this process has never been conclusively proven until now.
The study involved 14 volunteers between the ages of 9 and 65 who already had signs of their hair starting to turn gray or white. Over the course of two and a half years, researchers analyzed their hair using a specialized high-resolution scanning technique. They discovered that not only did stress correlate with shifts in hair pigmentation, but once people were exposed to less stress, their hair color could return.
Although the study only involved a small sample size, its findings shed light on the biological processes of aging and the potential malleability of human aging influenced by stress. The researchers suggest that understanding how old gray hairs can revert back to their young pigmented states could provide insights into the broader mechanisms of aging.
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The analysis of the participants' hair revealed not only visible graying but also subtle color variations, indicating that once pigment loss had begun, it did not always continue. By cross-referencing stress diaries filled out by some of the volunteers, the researchers identified a correlation between periods of stress and changes in hair pigmentation.
Further examination of the hair samples showed an association between white hairs and proteins associated with mitochondria, which are indicative of energy use and metabolic stress. This reinforces the idea that stress can impact hair color.
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Using a mathematical model, researchers extrapolated their findings to encompass a larger and more diverse population. They concluded that under certain conditions, hair that turn gray and white can regain its original color, contradicting a previous study conducted on mice. However, variations in hair follicle biology between mice and humans could explain this discrepancy.
While the study provides compelling evidence for stress-related hair pigmentation loss, it is important to note that these findings may not be apply to everyone. The researchers suggest that there is likely a biological age threshold for hair turning gray, and stress and other biological factors can influence hair follicles to reach this threshold earlier. Further research is still needed to fully comprehend the mechanisms involved and their implications for hair health.
