Noticing white or gray hair in children might cause concern in parents. The graying of hair in older adults is a natural process. But premature graying of hair in children is not. Although the reason might be genetic in some children, it might also be associated with a health condition such as vitiligo or neurofibromatosis. Thus, it is essential to get your child checked by a doctor if you start to notice the graying of their hair. Read on to know more about the causes and treatment options available to help with this condition.
Possible Causes Of White Or Gray Hair In Children
Hair color comes from melanin pigment. Hair begins to gray or turn white due to a reduction in the melanin quantity. It usually happens with aging, but some other reasons may cause hair to turn white in children. There is no single reason for the development of white hair in children. It may be a result of one factor or a combination of several factors. Spotting a white hair on your child can prompt you to look for a remedy.
Can Premature Graying Or White Hair Be Treated In Children?
There is no specific treatment for premature graying. Certain causes of white hair like faulty genes or autoimmune conditions may not have a cure. You may discuss with a pediatrician about the best course of treatment that could work for your child. However, some measures may help control further graying of hair. For instance, having a nutritious diet and taking nutritional supplements (as prescribed by the doctor) may help the child in reducing white or gray hair. Protection from harsh sun rays and healthy sleep pattern may also help control the graying.
Can White Hair Be Prevented?
If premature graying of hair is due to genetics, then it cannot be prevented. However, if it is due to a medical condition or due to diet or lifestyle changes, then you may be able to prevent white hair or worsening of it.
Tips To Prevent Premature Graying Of Hair
These measures may help children and people of a young age to prevent white or gray hair. The preventive methods may or may not work for all children. Moreover, some children may be sensitive to the remedies. Speak to your child’s doctor before trying any treatment for premature graying of hair in children.
Is It Okay To Pluck White Or Gray Hair?
Here’s a myth – Plucking one gray hair will give rise to several new gray hair. Dr. Shashank Kraleti, UAMS family and preventive medicine physician, debunks it by saying, “Plucking strands of hair may traumatize the follicle and may even cause scar formation or infection. If you want to get rid of gray hair, you need to cut it off carefully (11).”
Can White Hair Turn Black Again Permanently?
White hair cannot turn black naturally. However, lifestyle changes and a balanced diet may help further whitening or graying of hair.
Can Children Dye Their Hair?
It depends on the age of your child and the cause behind premature graying of hair. Dyeing is usually not recommended for school-going children because the dyes are often laden with chemicals that may be more harmful to children than adults. If white hair is causing distress to the child, and they insist on dyeing, then consult a doctor, who might suggest products that are safe for the child.
