Does plucking white hair causes more of them to grow?
As the years go by, the inevitable signs of aging start to reveal themselves in various ways, and one of the most apparent transformations is the appearance of those elusive white hairs amidst our natural hair color. While some individuals gracefully embrace these beautiful signs of maturity, others may feel compelled to pluck them out, driven by the persistent myth that doing so will lead to an incessant influx of white hair growth. In this comprehensive article, we embark on a journey to unravel the truth behind this age-old belief and separate fact from fiction, bringing clarity to the enigma surrounding the relationship between plucking white hair and its alleged effect on hair growth.
Does plucking white hair really cause them to grow more?
The only perfect answer for this is a big “NO”! Plucking of white hair has nothing to do with growing more white hairs. Each of our hair strands grows on a single hair follicle, which is vital to understand. So, if considering that only one hair will grow there and there are chances that it will be white too. There are rare chances that the new hair will be dark or shinier.
There are numerous causes that contribute to white or grey hair, including ageing, heredity, stress, and others. So, it's possible that when you have plucked your hair then your other hairs have started to lose their natural color as well. So even if you pluck your hair or not it has nothing to do with your growing of white hair.
Along with that, the white hair strands are a little rough in texture than your natural hair color. This makes it more prominent than your other hair.
What happens when you pluck your white hair?
Whenever you pluck your hair the hair follicle is affected but is healed slowly. Then, a new strand emerges out of that follicle. If you do this process again and again then this eventually leads to a damaged follicle. The cells around the follicles will eventually die and hence causing them to shrink.
If any hair grows on that spot, it will eventually cause you to have a bald patch on your scalp. So, it is better to cut it off with scissors or color it if you dont want to see those white spots.
What are the effects of Plucking white hair?
Plucking of white hair does no good to anyone but it surely leads to different hair problems which include:-
Hair Thinning
If you keep on plucking the hair from the same spot again and again then as discussed above it will cause the hair follicle to shrink. This results in the dying of those hair follicles and ultimately it results in thinning of hair.
Here are some of the 5 easy ways to reduce your hair from thinning.
Damaging the scalp
If you pluck the white hair from the same spot then it might lead your scalp to scarring and also make you prone to some scalp infection.
Disturbing the hair texture
Plucking of hair can cause your hair to lose its texture and hence, make them wiry as well as harsh.
What are the prevent Premature Grey or White Hair?
Reversing back your hair from grey to black is not possible. So, there is no way that you can revert back your lost natural hair color but there are a few steps that can be taken in order to prevent them. This includes measures like:-
Apply Hair Serums
Hair serums packed with Acrolys can indirectly help prevent premature grey hair by promoting overall hair health. They moisturize and nourish the hair, lowering the danger of dryness and damage. The serums create a protective barrier, shielding the hair from environmental stressors that can contribute to premature greying.
Strengthening the hair shaft reduces breakage and brittleness, potentially delaying greying. Improving hair texture makes the hair look healthier and more vibrant, minimizing the appearance of premature grey hair. While hair serums provide these benefits, preventing premature greying is multifactorial and influenced by genetics and age. Embracing healthy hair care practices can support youthful and vibrant hair as you age.
Taking Nutritional Supplements
There are certain deficiencies that could lead to premature greying of hair like Vitamin B12, B6, Vitamin D, and E as well. The premature greying of hair has been associated with low levels of iron and also the levels of good cholesterol. The structure and colour of your natural hair are also affected by collagen levels.
So, if you start to see grey hair in your 30s then it's a great idea to start with some good nutritional supplements like including collagen supplements in your diet. This will give a good texture to your hair and also reduce the chances of grey hair.
Avoid Smoking
According to studies, smoking can promote premature greying of hair. Smoking can cause the blood flow to slow down. This directly affects the nutrient and oxygen being delivered to the hair follicles hence reducing the healthy growth of hair.
Along with that cigarettes have toxins that impact the body negatively and especially hair follicles. This makes the hair follicles weak and disturbs the natural growth of the hair cycle. This is why it is suggested to stop smoking.
Avoid taking Stress
Stress is one of the things that contribute to the overall effect on health and also to premature greying of hair. Life will always give you challenges be they small or big and it's important to face them. But you can perform some self-care routines in order to get some quality time sleep and also performing some meditation could do some help.
Protecting the hair from external damage
Hair Care Habits: Be gentle with your hair and avoid harsh hair care practices. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle hair gently, and avoid aggressive brushing or excessive pulling. When styling, avoid using heat styling equipment and instead use heat-protectant products.
Protect Hair from Sun and Pollution: UV rays and environmental pollutants can damage hair, leading to premature greying. Consider wearing a hat or applying hair products with UV protection whenever you are under the sun. After being in heavily polluted areas, make sure to thoroughly rinse your hair.
Regularly Moisturize Your Hair: Properly moisturized hair is less prone to damage and color loss. Use a moisturizing conditioner to maintain your hair healthy and nourished.
Limit Heat Styling: Using heat-styling tools like flat irons and curling wands excessively can lead to hair thinning and damage. To maintain the health and color of your hair, opt for heat-free hairstyles whenever possible.
Wear a Scarf or Hat: When you're outdoors, especially on sunny days, cover your hair with a scarf or hat. This physical barrier helps shield your hair from harmful UV rays that can degrade hair proteins and pigments.
Take Aways
As the years pass, white hairs become more evident, signifying the natural aging process. Plucking these hairs does not lead to more growth; each strand arises from an individual follicle. Premature greying can be influenced by genetics, age, and stress. Plucking white hair may damage follicles, resulting in hair thinning and scalp issues. Instead, opt for preventive measures like using hair serums, taking nutritional supplements, avoiding smoking, managing stress, and protecting hair from external damage like UV rays and pollution. Embrace healthy hair care practices, appreciate the beauty of maturity, and cherish your hair's natural appearance on life's journey.
FAQs
Q. What causes white hair at an early age?
Ans. Premature graying of hair, often influenced by genetics, stress, and aging, can lead to white or gray hair at an early age. Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, anemia, and nutritional deficiencies may also play a role. Harmful habits like smoking and excessive use of chemical hair products can damage hair follicles and accelerate graying. Hormonal imbalances, autoimmune disorders, and lifestyle factors contribute to the problem. While a few gray hairs may not be concerning, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if you experience premature graying along with other worrisome symptoms. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and addressing any underlying health issues can help manage premature graying.
Q. Which vitamin deficiency causes white hair?
Ans. Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the key factors that can lead to premature graying or white hair. Insufficient levels of vitamin B12 can affect melanin production, which is responsible for hair color, leading to the early appearance of gray or white hair.
Q. Can white hair turn black again?
Ans. No, white hair cannot turn black again on its own. Once a hair follicle produces a white or gray hair, the color change is permanent. Hair color is determined by the presence of melanin, a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes in the hair follicles. As we age, the production of melanin decreases, leading to the appearance of white or gray hair