Hair greying mainly happens due to:
- loss of melanin production
- oxidative stress in hair follicles
- nutrient deficiencies
The nutrients with actual scientific links:
Vitamin B12
Deficiency can cause premature greying.
Folate
Low folate is associated with hair depigmentation.
Copper
Copper is required for tyrosinase, the enzyme that produces melanin.
Iron
Iron deficiency can disrupt hair growth and pigmentation.
Zinc
Important for hair follicle repair and enzyme function.
Catalase / Antioxidants
Hair follicles accumulate hydrogen peroxide, which bleaches hair internally.
Antioxidants that may help:
- NAC
- glutathione
- polyphenols
Tyrosine
An amino acid needed to produce melanin pigment.
PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)
Old research suggested it may help restore hair color in some cases.
Selenium
Important for antioxidant systems in follicles.
Iodine
Indirect effect through thyroid health.
Thyroid disorders (including Hashimoto’s) can contribute to early greying.