What Causes Gray Hair?

Reduction In The Production Of Melanin

Gray hair is the result of a reduction in the production of melanin, which we know is what gives hair, skin, and eyes color. Reduced melanin production can happen for many reasons. The most common causes are genetics and normal aging, as hormone and enzyme production naturally declines with age. Certain illnesses can also impair melanin production, and these include vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid disease, alopecia areata, tuberous sclerosis, and neurofibromatosis. Alopecia areata is a disorder that causes sudden loss of patches of hair, particularly colored hair. This can lead to seemingly sudden graying as already present gray hairs become more obvious.