A Comprehensive Review on Premature Hair Graying: Factor Contributing, Pathogenesis, Prevention Strategies, and Natural Therapeutic

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | Issue : 01 | Page : 13 20
    By

    Nandini R. Jadhav,

  • Ghanshyam M. Chavan,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurances, SVS’s Dadashaheb Rawal Pharmacy College, Mandal Road, Dondaicha, Tal-Shindhkheda, Dhule, Maharashtra, India
  2. Principal, Department of Pharmacology, SVS’s Dadashaheb Rawal Pharmacy College, Mandal Road Dondaicha, Tal- Shindhkheda, Dhule, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Premature graying of hair (PGH), also known as early canities, is an increasingly common dermatological concern characterized by the loss of natural hair pigmentation before the expected age. Hair color is primarily determined by the quantity and type of melanin synthesized by melanocytes within the hair follicle. Disruption in melanocyte function, survival, or melanin synthesis leads to hair graying. Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors contribute to PGH, including genetic predisposition, oxidative stress, nutritional deficiencies (notably vitamin B12, iron, copper, and folate), hormonal imbalances, autoimmune conditions, lifestyle factors such as smoking and stress, and environmental exposure. Oxidative stress plays a central role by damaging follicular melanocytes and impairing antioxidant defense mechanisms. Premature graying can have significant psychological and social impacts, especially in adolescents and young adults. This review discusses the normal physiology of hair pigmentation, pathogenesis of premature graying, differential diagnosis, clinical investigation, preventive measures, dietary and traditional remedies, and future therapeutic perspectives. Understanding the multifactorial nature of PGH is essential for early diagnosis, targeted management, and improved quality of life.

Keywords: Extrinsic factors, future perspectives, intrinsic factors, natural nutritional boost melanin synthesis, premature hair graying, traditional remedies

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions ]

How to cite this article:
Nandini R. Jadhav, Ghanshyam M. Chavan. A Comprehensive Review on Premature Hair Graying: Factor Contributing, Pathogenesis, Prevention Strategies, and Natural Therapeutic. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2026; 16(01):13-20.
How to cite this URL:
Nandini R. Jadhav, Ghanshyam M. Chavan. A Comprehensive Review on Premature Hair Graying: Factor Contributing, Pathogenesis, Prevention Strategies, and Natural Therapeutic. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Health Professions. 2026; 16(01):13-20. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjohp/article=2026/view=239327


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 16
Issue 01
Received 01/01/2026
Accepted 05/02/2026
Published 18/03/2026
Publication Time 76 Days
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