The end of gray hair may be closer, according to study.

For a long time white hair They were seen as an inevitable sign of the passage of time, something that, with luck, could be hidden with dyes or cosmetic products. However, a recent study from New York University published in a prestigious journal NatureI discovered something surprising: gray hair days may be numbered. This conclusion, based on in-depth analysis melanocyte stem cells (McSC)could change the paradigm of how we understand and treat gray hair.

The key is in melanocytic stem cells

Over the years, McSCs found in hair follicles lose their ability to move between different areas of the follicle and regenerate melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. This happens because some of these cells become trapped in areas where they cannot perform their functions. According to researchers, This blockage is what causes gray hair.

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Unlike other types of stem cells, McSCs have the remarkable ability to change state, moving from an undifferentiated phase (in which they remain stem cells) to a specialized phase (in which they produce pigment). However, over time this flexibility decreases. The study suggests that if this is achieved restore your mobilityIt would be possible not only to prevent graying, but also to reverse it.

This discovery opens doors future treatments This can restore hair to its natural color by reactivating stem cells trapped in the follicles.

Why does gray hair appear?

Hair turns gray or white when McSCs stop producing melanin. This process is associated not only with natural aging, but also with factors such as stress, cell damage caused by free radicals (oxidative stress), and certain hormonal or nutritional imbalances. These factors contribute to the wear and tear of the cells responsible for color, accelerating the graying process.

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Gray hair is not actually white; it just lacks pigment. A decrease in melanin causes strands to lose their original shade, resulting in the characteristic appearance of gray hair.

Habits to prevent gray hair

Although treatments resulting from this research are still in development, there are Measures that can help prevent or delay the appearance of gray hair. One of the most important factors is diet, as a diet deficient in essential nutrients can accelerate hair aging. Nutrients such as iron, copper, calcium, vitamin B12, vitamin D, biotin and folic acid are essential for maintaining healthy hair and preventing greying.

Including foods rich in these micronutrients in your diet may be key. shellfish, red meat, cocoa, dairy products and fatty fish They provide iron, copper, calcium and essential fatty acids for healthy hair. Also combine legumes with foods rich in vitamin Csuch as tomatoes or citrus fruits help improve iron absorption. Additionally, avoiding factors that cause oxidative stress, such as smoking or excessive sun exposure, helps protect the stem cells responsible for pigmentation.

The discovery, made at New York University, marks a revolution in our understanding of graying. While there is still some way to go to translate this discovery into affordable treatments, the opportunity to reverse gray hair is closer than ever. Meanwhile, balanced diet and good hair care habits These are the best tools for maintaining healthy hair and slowing down the effects of time.