Does smoking change your hair grey?

Smoking has several negative impacts on overall health and appearance, including potential effects on hair.

Hair color is primarily determined by the production and distribution of a pigment called melanin. There are two main types of melanin: eumelanin, which gives hair brown to black color, and pheomelanin, which is responsible for red or orange hair. With aging, the production of melanin generally decreases, leading to the gradual greying of hair.

While ageing is the primary factor, certain lifestyle habits, including smoking, may contribute to premature greying. Smoking can induce oxidative stress, which leads to the production of free radicals that damage cells, including hair follicles. This damage can affect melanin production, resulting in the appearance of grey hair at a younger age.

Additionally, smoking can cause blood vessel constriction in the scalp, limiting the supply of nutrients to hair follicles. Over time, this nutrient deprivation can also contribute to hair greying and overall hair health issues.

It is essential to note that while smoking is one of the potential factors associated with premature greying, it is not the sole cause. Genetics and other lifestyle factors such as nutrition, stress levels, and environmental factors also play significant roles in hair color and overall hair health.

If you are concerned about hair greying, especially if it is premature, it is advisable to discuss it with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation, and potential treatments or interventions to address your specific concerns.