Help! Why Do I Have Gray Hair in My 20s?!?
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There will come a day when you'll look in the mirror and notice that very *first* strand of gray hair. Now, if you feel that your day comes earlier than most—i.e., before you hit 30—and panic ensues, I'm here to tell you that there is no "normal" time for going gray. Life itself is already confusing in your twenties, there's no reason to add stress around this to the mix—it's completely normal. That said, if you have questions, I get it, which is why I'm here along with a dermatologist to answer exactly what causes gray hair in your twenties. And if gray isn't your jam, we gotchu; we'll get into whether or not you can prevent/reverse it, and the best products to conceal your grays and dye your hair below.
What causes gray hair in your 20s?
Gray hair is an inevitable part of life; however, when your hair actually begins to start graying is determined by a slew of factors. "Gray hair in your 20s can be influenced by genetics, meaning if your parents or grandparents grayed early, you're more likely to as well," board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara says. Let's break down the science of what it actually means when your hair turns gray.
Put simply, your hair color is determined by the amount and combination of melanin present, predetermined by your genetic code (aka your parents). "Melanin production in hair follicles decreases over time," says Dr. Gohara. Less melanin translates to less pigment, therefore turning your hair gray—FYI, this means gray hair has less pigment, and white hair has a total lack of pigment. While most people will start to see gray hair in their mid-30s, Dr. Gohara says, it's definitely possible in your twenties, and, in some cases, even in the late teens.
While aging is the reason for gray hair and genetics being the most influential in terms of the timing, Dr. Gohara says oxidative stress, lifestyle factors, and even certain health conditions, though less common, can also accelerate the graying process.
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Why you might have gray hair in your 20s:
⮕ What it probably is: Genetics
As mentioned, melanin production will decrease as we age (among the other ~wonderful~ things that happen as we get older). "When it happens early, it's often hereditary." Just take a look at your parents and their parents; if someone from your family has a history of premature graying, it's likely you may, too. The same is true for hair thinning—when and how quickly this happens is genetically predetermined. In fact, science says that by the age of 50, half of all men and women will have at least 50 percent gray hair.
⮕ What it could be: Health conditions and nutrient deficiencies
"In some cases, vitamin B-12 deficiency, thyroid issues, or pituitary problems can lead to premature graying," Dr. Gohara says. A study examining premature graying in people under 20 indicated lower copper levels appeared in those affected. Though more research will need to be done to fully explain why, if you believe or have been tested to have low copper, a diet rich in shellfish, seeds, nuts, and fish may help. However, don't play doctor: if you feel you may have a medical problem, see a professional who can diagnose and treat you properly.
⮕ What it could be: Stress
I'm sure you've heard it time and time again: Don't stress so much; you'll get wrinkles and grays! Yes and no. While the science verdict is out, "stress has been shown to contribute to the depletion of stem cells responsible for hair color," says Dr. Gohara. This, in turn, can potentially lead to graying. "No, it won't make hair turn gray overnight, but chronic stress can speed up the process."
⮕ What it could be: Smoking
As we all know, smoking does no good for us. The obvious ones—i.e., cancer, heart disease, diabetes, wrinkles—also have some not-so-well-known companions. Smoking goes deep; it affects your organs, and even how your DNA works, the Cleveland Clinic says. If you smoke, it's been found that you're two and a half times more likely to have premature hair graying. Another reason to put down the nicotine, eh?
Can you reverse or prevent gray hair?
As we covered, when you develop gray hair is most often determined by your genetics, which, sorry, you can't do anything about (thanks, 'rents). That said, in some cases, if you're dealing with a health issue or vitamin deficiency (hi, vitamin B-12, copper thyroid, pituitary problem), these may be reversible with proper treatment, says Dr. Gohara.
Another very important fact to be aware of? "Don't believe the hype in terms of reversal," says Dr. Gohara. "There are pills, lotions, and potions, none of which have science to support at this point." (Ahem, the same can be said about hair growth vitamins, oils, and shampoos!)
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The bottom line:
Your genetics play a large role in the timing of when your hair will gray. While, yes, most people will start to see it begin in their mid-30s, Dr. Gohara says there is typically no cause for concern if you experience it in your 20s and even your late teens unless you fear it may be due to an underlying health issue. In these rarer instances of a vitamin deficiency or medical problem, by fixing the root of the issue, you may (emphasis on the may) be able to slow down the progression or reverse it. If you suspect the latter, don't play doctor; see one instead—they'll be able to properly diagnose and treat you.
Meet the expert:
Mona Gohara, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, CT. Dr. Gohara is an associate clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine and president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society. Her areas of expertise include medical and surgical dermatology and skin of color.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, and has four years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and lifestyle news. She’s an expert at researching and writing beauty stories, like the best shampoo for a dry scalp and the best hair growth oils. She regularly works with the industry’s top dermatologists and trichologists to assess new trends, formulas, and brands.
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