Dietary supplements against gray hair: is there a solution

Dietary supplements against gray hair: is there a solution? Deep analysis of the effectiveness and prospects

Part 1: gray hair – phenomenon, causes and mechanisms

1. What is gray hair? Determination and visual characteristics.

   Gray hair is the process of hair loss of its natural pigment, melanin, as a result of which the hair acquires silver, gray or white. Visually, gray hair is manifested as the appearance of individual gray hairs, gradually increasing in quantity and covering the entire hair mass. The intensity and speed of graying is individual and depends on many factors. At the microscopic level of gray hair, it is no different from the pigmented, with the exception of the absence or significant decrease in the amount of melanin.

2. Hair pigmentation biochemistry: melanin and its role.

   The color of the hair is determined by melanin-a pigment, synthesized cellocytic cells located in the hair follicles. There are two main types of melanin: Eumlanin (is responsible for dark shades – brown and black) and Feomelin (is responsible for light shades – red and yellow). The ratio of these two types of melanin determines the individual hair color. Melanocytes transfer melanin to keratinocytes, the main cells that form the structure of the hair. This process occurs in melanosomes, cellular organelles containing melanin. With age, the activity of melanocytes decreases, the amount of melanin produced decreases, and the hair loses its color, becoming gray.

3. The main causes of gray hair: age, genetics, stress, illness, deficiency.

   The appearance of gray hair is a multifactor process due to the interaction of several factors:

   • Age: The most common cause of gray hair. With age, the activity of melanocytes gradually decreases, which leads to a decrease in melanin production. This process is programmed genetically and is considered a natural aging of the body.
   • Genetics: The genetic predisposition plays a key role in determining the age of the beginning of graying. If parents have a gray hair early, then it is likely that in children this process will begin at a younger age. The genes responsible for the pigmentation of the hair and the function of melanocytes are inherited.
   • Stress: Chronic stress can accelerate the process of graying. Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to the release of neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, which can damage melanocytes and disrupt the production of melanin. In addition, stress can cause inflammation in hair follicles, which also negatively affects the function of melanocytes.
   • Diseases: Some diseases can lead to premature graying. These include autoimmune diseases (vitiligo, areata alopecia), thyroid disease (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism), vitamin B12 deficiency, program (premature aging syndrome) and some genetic syndromes.
   • Deficit: The deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, copper, iron, selenium and zinc, can contribute to sowing. These nutrients play an important role in maintaining the health of hair follicles and the normal function of melanocytes.

4. The mechanisms of the development of gray hair at the cellular and molecular levels: the role of melanocytes, hydrogen peroxide, stem cells.

   The development of gray hair is a complex process that includes several key mechanisms:

   • Reducing the activity of melanocytes: With age, the quantity and activity of melanocytes in hair follicles decreases. This may be due to damage to the DNA of melanocytes, a decrease in the expression of genes necessary for the synthesis of melanin, and a violation of the regulation of the cell cycle of melanocytes.
   • Hydrogen peroxide accumulation: In the hair follicles of gray hair, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulates. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that blocks melanin synthesis, inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, a key enzyme in the process of melanogenesis.
   • The exhaustion of stem cells of melanocytes: In hair follicles there are stem cells of melanocytes, which are the predecessors of melanocytes. With age, the number of stem cells of melanocytes decreases, which leads to a decrease in the ability of hair follicles to produce new melanocytes.
   • Damage to melanocytic DNA: DNA of melanocytes can be damaged by various factors, such as ultraviolet radiation, free radicals and toxins. DNA damage can lead to impaired melanocytic function and a decrease in melanin production.
   • Inflammation in hair follicles: Chronic inflammation in hair follicles can damage melanocytes and disrupt their function. Inflammation can be caused by various factors, such as stress, infections and autoimmune diseases.

5. The impact of external factors on the standings: ultraviolet radiation, smoking, environmental pollution.

   External factors can also affect the sowing process:

   • Ultraviolet radiation (UV): UV radiation damages the DNA of melanocytes and promotes the formation of free radicals, which can disrupt the function of melanocytes. Protecting hair from the effects of UV radiation with hats and sunscreen can help slow down the standing process.
   • Smoking: Smoking is associated with a premature post. Smoking worsens the blood supply to the hair follicles, which leads to a decrease in the intake of nutrients and oxygen to melanocytes. In addition, smoking increases the amount of free radicals in the body that can damage melanocytes.
   • Environmental pollution: Air pollution, especially the effects of heavy metals and toxic chemicals, can negatively affect the health of hair follicles and contribute to premature graying. Pollutants can cause oxidative stress and inflammation in hair follicles.

Part 2: Overview of dietary supplements positioned as remedies against gray hair

1. Classification of dietary supplements against gray hair: vitamins, minerals, amino acids, plant extracts.

   Bades (biologically active additives), positioned as a gray hair, usually contain a combination of various ingredients aimed at maintaining the health of hair follicles and stimulating melanin production. They can be classified according to the following groups:

   • Vitamins: B vitamins B (B12, BIOTIN, Folic acid, pantothenic acid), vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C.
   • Minerals: Copper, zinc, iron, selenium, calcium.
   • Amino acids: L-tyrosin, l-cysteine, leis.
   • Plant extracts: Embassy extract (amls), high-flower highlander extract (FO-Ti), African piddle extract, nettle extract, palm palm extract.
   • Other: Catalanase, PABA (pair-aminobenzoic acid).

2. Vitamins of group B (B12, biotin, folic acid, pantothenic acid): mechanisms of action and research.

   • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and blood formation. B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological problems that can affect the health of hair follicles. Some studies show that B12 deficiency may be associated with premature shift.
   • Biotin (Vitamin B7): It is important for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Participates in the synthesis of keratin, the main protein that forms the structure of the hair. Biotin deficiency is rare, but can lead to hair loss and a change in their structure.
   • Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is necessary for dividing and cell growth. Participates in the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Folic acid deficiency can lead to anemia and other problems that can negatively affect hair health.
   • Pantotenic acid (vitamin B5): Important for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Participates in the synthesis of Coenzyme A, which is necessary for many metabolic processes. Some studies show that pantothenic acid can help improve the hair structure and prevent their loss.

   Research: The evidence base of the effectiveness of group B vitamins in relation to the prevention or circulation of gray hair is limited. Most studies are focused on the study of the effect of the deficiency of these vitamins on the health of the hair as a whole, and not on a specific settings mechanism.

3. Minerals (copper, zinc, iron, selenium): role in hair pigmentation and research results.

   • Copper: It is necessary for the synthesis of melanin. Copper is a cofactor of the enzyme tyrosinase, which plays a key role in the process of melanogenesis. Copper deficiency can lead to impaired hair and skin pigmentation.
   • Zinc: It is important for the growth and division of cells, as well as for the functioning of the immune system. Zinc is involved in the synthesis of keratin and collagen, which are necessary for the health of hair. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and a change in their structure.
   • Iron: It is necessary to transfer oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can negatively affect the health of hair follicles.
   • Selenium: It is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. Selenium is also necessary for the functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in the regulation of hair growth.

   Research: The deficiency of these minerals can contribute to sowing, but there is no convincing evidence that taking additives with these minerals can turn the process of sowing in people with the normal level of these minerals in the body.

4. Amino acids (L-tyrosine, L-cysteine, L-lysine): Building blocks for melanin and keratin.

   • L-tyrosin: Is the predecessor of Melanin. Tyrosine is transformed into digidoxyphenilalane (DOPA) and then into melanin under the influence of a tyrosynase enzyme. Theoretically, an increase in consumption of L-tyrosine can stimulate the production of melanin.
   • L-Cistein: Contains sulfur, which is necessary for the formation of disulfide connections in keratin. Disulfide bonds give hair strength and elasticity to the hair.
   • L-Lisin: It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which supports the structure of hair follicles.

   Research: Evidence of the effectiveness of amino acids in the prevention or circulation of gray hair is limited and contradictory. Further studies are needed to assess the influence of these amino acids on hair pigmentation.

5. Plant extracts (emblem, multi -flowered highlander, African pidgeum, nettles, palm gray): traditional use and modern research.

   • Extract of Embliki (AMLA): It is used in Ayurvedic medicine to strengthen hair and prevent sowing. Ampla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Some studies show that AMLA can stimulate hair growth and improve their structure.
   • Hotel Extract of a multi-flowered (FO-Ti): It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to strengthen hair and prevent sowing. It is believed that FO-Ti stimulates the production of melanin and improves the blood supply to the hair follicles.
   • African pidge extract: Used to treat problems with the prostate gland. Some studies show that African pidgeum can block the effect of digidrotestosterone (DGT), a hormone that can contribute to hair loss.
   • Nettle extract: It is rich in vitamins and minerals that are necessary for hair health. Nettle also has anti -inflammatory properties.
   • Serene palm extract: Used to treat problems with the prostate gland and hair loss. The palm of serenia blocks the action of DHT.

   Research: Most of the studies of plant extracts were carried out in vitro (in a test tube) or on animals. Further clinical trials in people are needed to assess the effectiveness of these extracts in the prevention or treatment of gray hair.

6. Catalase: Myth or reality? The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide and the potential effect on pigmentation.

   Catalase is an enzyme that decomposes hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water and oxygen. As mentioned earlier, in the hair follicles of gray hair, hydrogen peroxide accumulates, which can inhibit melanin synthesis. Theoretically, taking catalase in the form of an additive can help reduce the level of hydrogen peroxide in hair follicles and restore hair pigmentation.

   Research: Evidence of the effectiveness of catalase in the prevention or circulation of gray hair is extremely limited. Most statements about the benefits of catalase are based on theoretical assumptions, and not on clinical data. In addition, catalase is a protein that can be destroyed in the stomach before it reaches the hair follicles. Further research is needed to assess the possibility of catalase delivery to hair follicles and its effect on hair pigmentation.

7. PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid): the role in the synthesis of folic acid and the potential effect on hair color.

   PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) is part of the folic acid molecule (vitamin B9). Some people claim that PABA can help restore hair color.

   Research: Evidence of PABA’s effectiveness in the prevention or handling of gray hair is weak. Some early studies showed that Paba could help darken gray hair, but these results were not confirmed in later studies. In addition, PABA can cause side effects, such as allergic reactions and liver problems.

Part 3: Scientific research and evidence base

1. Clinical studies of dietary supplements against gray hair: design, results, restrictions.

   Clinical studies of dietary supplements, positioned as remedies against gray hair, often have the following restrictions:

   • Small sample size: Studies are often conducted in small groups of people, which complicates the generalization of results for a wider population.
   • Lack of a control group: Some studies do not have a control group, which makes it difficult to determine whether the dietary supplement really has an effect, or an improvement in hair condition is associated with other factors.
   • Subjective assessment: Assessment of the effectiveness of dietary supplements is often based on subjective assessments of participants, such as an assessment of hair color and their general condition.
   • Short duration: Studies often have a short duration, which complicates the assessment of the long -term effectiveness of dietary supplements.
   • Various compositions: Bades may contain various combinations of ingredients, which complicates a comparison of the results of various studies.

2. Meta analyzes and systematic reviews: analysis of the totality of data and conclusions.

   Met-analyzes and systematic reviews combine the results of several studies to obtain a more accurate assessment of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. However, due to restrictions on individual studies, meta-analyzes and systematic reviews can also have restrictions. Most meta-analyzes and systematic reviews devoted to badges against gray hair come to the conclusion that the evidence base of the effectiveness of these additives is limited and necessary further research.

3. Research in vitro and on animals: action mechanisms and promising compounds.

   Research in vitro And animals can help establish the mechanisms of the action of individual dietary supplements and identify promising compounds to prevent or handle gray hair. However, research results in vitro And animals can not always be extrapolate on people.

4. The role of oxidative stress and antioxidants in hair pigmentation: scientific data.

   Oxidative stress caused by free radicals can damage melanocytes and disrupt the production of melanin. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, can protect cells from damage to free radicals. Some studies show that antioxidants can help slow down the process of graying.

5. The impact of inflammation on the function of melanocytes: research and prospects for therapy.

   Chronic inflammation in hair follicles can damage melanocytes and disrupt their function. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin, can help reduce inflammation in hair follicles and maintain the health of melanocytes.

Part 4: Practical recommendations and alternative approaches

1. How to choose the right dietary supplement against gray hair: quality criteria, composition, manufacturer, reviews.

   When choosing dietary supplements against gray hair, the following criteria should be taken into account:

   • Quality: Choose dietary supplements from well -known and reliable manufacturers who comply with quality standards.
   • Composition: Pay attention to the composition of Bad. It should contain ingredients that are scientifically substantiated and have the potential for maintaining the health of hair follicles and stimulating melanin production.
   • Manufacturer: Study the reputation of the manufacturer. Find out if the manufacturer has quality certificates and whether he conducts his own research.
   • Reviews: Read the reviews of other users. However, remember that reviews can be subjective and do not always reflect the real effectiveness of dietary supplements.
   • Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, consult a doctor to make sure his safety and the absence of contraindications.

2. Diet and lifestyle to maintain hair health and slowing down: products, additives, habits.

   • Balanced diet: Eat a variety of foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, lean meat, fish and nuts in your diet.
   • Sufficient protein consumption: Protein is necessary for the synthesis of keratin, the main protein that forms the structure of the hair.
   • Moderate consumption of sugar and processed products: Excessive consumption of sugar and processed products can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can negatively affect hair health.
   • Regular physical exercises: Physical exercises improve blood circulation and help reduce stress.
   • Sufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to stress and hormonal imbalance, which can negatively affect the health of the hair.
   • Ultraviolet radiation protection: Use hats and sunscreen to protect hair from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation.
   • Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the hair follicles and increases the number of free radicals in the body.
   • Reducing stress levels: Use stress control techniques, such as meditation, yoga or nature walks.

3. External remedies against gray hair: shampoos, lotions, serums. Composition and effectiveness.

   There are external funds that can help slow down the sowing process or temporarily disguise the gray hair:

   • Gray hair darkening shampoos: Contain pigments that temporarily dye gray hair.
   • Lotions and serums to stimulate melanin production: They contain ingredients such as copper peptides and plant extracts, which theoretically can stimulate melanin production. However, the effectiveness of these funds has not been proved clinically.
   • Shampoos and air conditioners to strengthen hair: They contain ingredients that strengthen the hair and protect it from damage, which can help improve their appearance.

4. Professional procedures: staining, tinting, highlighting, repigmentation.

   Professional procedures, such as staining, tinting and highlighting, can help hide gray hair and give the hair the desired color. Repigmentation is a procedure aimed at restoring the pigment in the hair. However, repregation often requires repeated procedures and can be expensive.

5. Medical approaches: stem cells, genetic therapy (prospects).

   Stem cell therapy and gene therapy are promising, but so far experimental approaches to the treatment of gray hair. Stem cell therapy is aimed at restoring the population of stem cells of melanocytes in hair follicles. Gene therapy is aimed at correcting genetic defects, which can lead to a violation of melanin production. These methods are under development and are not yet available for widely used.

Part 5: Myths and errors about gray hair and dietary supplements

1. “Pulling out a gray hair leads to the growth of two new gray hair.” Myth.

   This is a common myth. Egging the gray hair does not lead to the growth of two new gray hair. Each hair follicle can produce only one hair. However, constant pulling out hair can damage the hair follicle and lead to its scarring, which can prevent hair growth in this place.

2. “The gray hair is transmitted only on the maternal line.” Myth.

   The gray hair is inherited from both the mother and the father. The genes responsible for the pigmentation of the hair and the function of melanocytes are transmitted from both parents.

3. “Bad can completely turn the process of graying.” Exaggeration.

   Most dietary supplements positioned as aids against gray hair cannot completely turn the process of sowing. They can help maintain the health of hair follicles and slow down the process of graying, but cannot restore hair color in all people.

4. “All dietary supplements are equally effective.” Treatment.

   The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on their composition, quality and individual characteristics of the body. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers and consult a doctor before the reception.

5. “Gray hair is a sign of old age and disease.” Exaggeration.

   A gray hair is a natural aging process, but premature graying can be associated with genetics, stress, diseases or a deficiency of nutrients.

Part 6: Conclusion and prospects

1. Current state of research of dietary supplements against gray hair: results and conclusions.

   The current state of research on gray hair is characterized by a limited evidence base of the effectiveness of most additives. Some ingredients, such as B vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, can help support the health of hair follicles and slow down the process of graying, but cannot completely turn it. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of dietary supplements in the prevention or treatment of gray hair.

2. Future research areas: new connections, technologies, approaches.

   Future research in the field of prevention and circulation of gray hair may include:

   • Development of new compounds stimulating melanin production: Research is aimed at finding new compounds that can safely and effectively stimulate melanin production in hair follicles.
   • Using nanotechnologies to deliver active ingredients to hair follicles: Nanotechnologies can be used to develop delivery systems that allow you to deliver active ingredients of dietary supplements directly to the hair follicles, increasing their effectiveness.
   • The development of stem cells and gene therapy: Stem cell therapy and gene therapy are promising, but so far experimental approaches to the treatment of gray hair.
   • Studying the role of the microbioma of the scalp in hair pigmentation: Microbia of the scalp can affect the health of hair follicles and hair pigmentation. Research is aimed at studying the role of the scalp microbioma in the process of sowing and developing methods for its modulation to maintain hair health.
   • Development of personalized approaches to the treatment of gray hair: Given the individual characteristics of the body and the causes of sowing, it is possible to develop personalized approaches to the treatment of gray hair, including a diet, lifestyle, dietary supplements and other methods.

3. The role of the patient: conscious choice, consultation with a doctor, realistic expectations.

   It is important for patients considering the possibility of taking dietary supplements against gray hair:

   • Consciously choose dietary supplements: Study the composition, quality and reputation of the manufacturer of Bad.
   • Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement, consult a doctor to make sure his safety and the absence of contraindications.
   • Have realistic expectations: Remember that dietary supplements can help slow down the graying process, but cannot completely turn it.
   • Combine a reception of dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular physical exercises, sufficient sleep and a decrease in stress levels will help maintain hair health and slow down the process of graying.

In conclusion, although dietary supplements against gray hair can be useful for maintaining the health of hair follicles, it is important to remember that the evidence base of their effectiveness is limited, and it is necessary to have realistic expectations. A personalized approach, including a healthy lifestyle, consultation with a doctor and a conscious choice of dietary supplements, can help slow down the process of graying and improve the overall condition of the hair.