Greying of hair, medically referred to as canities or achromotrichia, is the loss of melanin pigment in hair follicles. This results in a gradual change in hair color, from its original hue to various shades of grey or white. The process is a natural part of aging, but can also be influenced by genetics, stress, and certain medical conditions.
The importance of understanding why hair turns white lies in its implications for overall health and well-being. Premature greying, occurring before the age of 30, can be a sign of underlying medical issues such as thyroid disorders, vitamin B12 deficiency, or alopecia areata. Conversely, gradual greying with age is a natural process that can be embraced as a sign of wisdom and maturity.