The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Hair Pigmentation
Jan 23, 2025 | By Maria Eliza Pineda
Hair is an important aspect of someone’s identity and style. Many put a lot of effort and time to make their hair look a certain way to express themselves and their personality. As you age, however, hair can go through a lot of changes including gray hair. You may notice a correlation between different events in your life that will give you an indication how your hormones can affect the pigmentation of your hair.
The Science of Hair Pigmentation
Your natural hair color is produced by melanin. The more melanin you produce, the darker your hair color is. So, if you have black or brown hair, you will have more melanin naturally while light brown and blonde have less, and white or gray hair has none.
Aging is a common cause of melanin production decrease. Of course, this is completely normal. You will notice some natural signs of aging which do include graying hair. However, there may be a few factors that can accelerate the graying process such as hormonal changes.
How Hormones Affect Hair Pigmentation
Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid hormones are an essential for the function of the body’s metabolism. An excess (hyperthyroidism) or deficiency (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones can lead to thinning hair and premature graying. One of the signs of thyroid-related issues is graying hair and a sudden change in texture (if hair suddenly becomes coarse or thick).
Cortisol (Stress Hormone)
Cortisol is a hormone that is produced excessively when the body is stressed. This can be because of mental stress or physical stress. Cortisol levels affect your hair growth and damage pigment producing melanocytes which can lead to hair loss and graying hair. This can happen to basically anyone but those who have PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) are prone to having high cortisol levels.
Sex Hormones (Estrogen and Testosterone)
You may notice a change in your hair texture and color during childbirth, pregnancy, menopause, and andropause. This is because hormones go through a lot of changes during these big events. Hormonal imbalances go crazy during these times and can affect melanin production in your hair and hair growth.
Other Causes of Premature Gray Hair
Genetics
Genetics is just something that comes with being a human. You can try to prevent or change some things, but when it comes down to it, sometimes genetics will just win the game. If your parents, grandparents, and relatives turn gray at a certain age, you are likely going to be the same. While some people go gray much later in life, there are also those who go gray earlier just because of genetics.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Gray hair can also be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, especially if you are experiencing premature graying. Hair gets its nourishment mainly from your diet and not from hair products or treatments. Sometimes, hair goes gray, dry, or goes through changes in texture if you have deficiencies in your diet.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Pollution, smoking, and an unbalanced diet can exacerbate the effects of hormonal changes. These can cause the body to raise its cortisol levels as well as cause other health issues. From this, hair can go gray much earlier.
Ways to Address Hormonal Changes and Prevent Gray Hair
Medical Interventions
If something is amiss with your hormones, it’s always important to seek professional medical advice. Hormones not only affect your hair, it affects your whole body. It’s important to keep everything balanced to have healthy, pigmented hair as well as maintaining your wellbeing.
Anti-Grey Hair Treatments
The Mayraki Anti-Grey Hair Color Restoring Treatment is an effective solution made from 100% natural ingredients. It helps restore the natural color of hair safely and without adverse effects. It’s not a hair dye or a pigment that will cover gray hairs. Its active ingredients such as polygonum multiflorum activate dormant pigment cells so that your natural hair color is restored. Additionally, it strengthens hair and prevents oxidative stress that causes graying.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Stress Management: Stress management is important to live a healthy and balanced life. It’s also a good way to help prevent gray hair. Prioritize your mental health and learn techniques that will help you manage your stress. Get rest, exercise, take breaks, and spend time doing things you enjoy.
Balanced Diet: Make sure to eat whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Avoid junk food that won’t nourish your body and keep things simple by going for proteins, vegetables, and fruit.
Proper Hair Care: Avoid using harsh chemicals on your hair as well as excessive heat styling. Choose products with gentle, natural ingredients that will nourish your hair and protect it from further damage.
Myths and Misconceptions About Hormones and Gray Hair
“Stress alone causes gray hair.”
While stress plays a role, it is not the sole reason. Genetics, hormonal changes, nutrition, and other factors also play significant roles. Sometimes, there are multiple factors working in tandem to cause the gray hair.
“Gray hair cannot be restored.”
With advanced treatments like the Mayraki Anti-Grey Hair Color Restoring Treatment, it is possible to bring back the natural color of hair. All you need to do is stimulate pigment producing cells and gray hair can totally be restored.
Hormones and Hair
Hormonal changes have a significant impact on hair color. Beyond natural aging, stress, thyroid issues, and other hormonal imbalances can cause premature graying. However, there are steps you can take to maintain your hair’s natural color, from lifestyle changes to using effective solutions like the Mayraki Anti-Grey Hair Color Restoring Treatment.
Don’t let hormonal changes dictate your hair. Discover natural and safe ways to restore its vitality and color. Try Mayraki today and revive your confidence!