Can you get gray hair from stress?

As a subject matter expert in the field of dermatology, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question. The color of your hair is determined by a pigment called melanin, which is produced by cells known as melanocytes. As people age, the activity of these melanocytes decreases, leading to a reduction in melanin and the gradual graying of hair. Research has suggested that there is a link between stress and the graying of hair. In a study, it was observed that certain hormones produced by the body in response to stress can deplete the melanocyte stem cells that are responsible for determining hair color. These hormones, when released during times of stress, can cause the stem cells to exit the hair follicles prematurely. When the melanocyte stem cells are no longer present in the hair follicles, they can no longer produce melanin, which results in the hair turning gray or white. While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, it is clear that stress can have a significant impact on various bodily processes, including those related to hair pigmentation. However, it's important to note that genetics also plays a crucial role in when and how quickly a person's hair turns gray.

The color comes from a pigment called melanin. ... In that study, the researchers found that hormones produced in response to stress can deplete the melanocyte stem cells that determine hair color. They found that stress causes the stem cells to leave our hair follicles, leaving hair gray or white.