Gray hair is an inevitable part of the aging process. However, in many middle-aged men, gray hair comes early and spreads rapidly, affecting appearance and psychology.
Understanding the causes and applying scientific measures will help slow down the process of hair loss, maintain a more youthful and confident appearance.
Why are middle-aged men easily gray hair?
According to the Mayo Clinic (a prestigious nonprofit health organization in the United States), gray hair mainly occurs when the cells that produce melanin (the color- Determining pigment) in hair follicles decline with age. As melanin levels decrease, hair will gradually shift from black to gray and white.
In addition to genetic factors, Harvard Health Publishing - under the Harvard Medical School, USA) emphasizes that the rate of gray hair is also affected by natural aging, chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies (especially vitamin B12, copper, zinc, iron) and unscientific lifestyle.
At the same time, according to research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - JAAD, oxidative stress (an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body) is an important factor that damages pigment cells, leading to premature gray hair.
Scientific solutions to help limit gray hair
1. Proper nutritional supplementation
A nutritious diet plays an essential role in maintaining healthy hair.
Mayo Clinic recommends supplementing vitamin B12, folic acid (vitamin B9), copper, zinc, iron and antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E to support the functioning of hair pigment cells.
Nutritious foods to include in your diet include: salmon, eggs, green leafy vegetables (buckwheat, kale), nuts, citrus fruits and lentils.
2. Control stress
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), prolonged stress increases cortisol levels in the body, negatively affecting hair follicles and accelerating the graying process of hair.
Effective stress management methods include: regular exercise, meditation, yoga, taking time for personal interests, getting enough rest and getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
3. Protect hair and scalp from external effects
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) warns that UV rays, environmental pollution, and strong chemicals in dye, curling, and hair remover can damage hair follicles and pigment cells.
To protect hair, men should wear hats when going out in the hot sun, use gentle hair care products, avoid overusing styling products and prioritize shampoos rich in natural nutrients.
4. Be careful with auxiliary products
The Mayo Clinic notes that there are currently no drugs or functional foods approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USF). The Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) approved it with an official statement as a " gray hair reversal island".
If you want to use supplements such as biotin, collagen, or synthetic vitamin tablets, you need advice from a specialist to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Silver hair is a natural sign of aging, but it is also an example reflecting the overall health of each man.
Through a reasonable diet, good stress management, hair protection against external factors and scientific body care, we can completely slow down the process of graying hair, maintain a youthful appearance and confident spirit in middle age.
Taking care of yourself from today is the most sustainable way to preserve youth - not only for hair, but for life.