Contrary to popular belief, gray hair isn’t necessarily a sign of aging.
Stress, genetics, and ethnicity play a role, too.
Alcohol consumption, smoking, pollution, and sun exposure can speed up this process.
The question is, when should you expect to start getting gray hair?
Is it normal to go gray in your 30s or earlier?
The answer depends on several factors, including your lifestyle habits.
In some cases, this process can be reversed by addressing its root cause.
Its production decreases over time, causing the hair to turn gray.
The likelihood of going gray increases by 10% to 20% per decade after age 30.
But, as discussed earlier, aging isn’t the only factor involved in this process.
“Chemicals like hair dye or products for hair straightening can cause damage to the hair fiber.
Your cultural background comes into play as well, says Vashi.
Caucasians usually start noticing their first silver strands around age 34.
Is it possible to prevent or reverse gray hair?
For example, one of the study’s participants started to go gray because of stress.
His hair returned to its normal color after a low-stress period followed by a two-week vacation.
Go one step further and quit smoking, which is a contributing factor to oxidative stress and aging.
Also, avoid spending long hours in the sun and cut back on alcohol.
