It's time to fight the greys

Using natural ingredients is the only safe way to prevent premature greying

Ageing is a natural process. With time, the body ages and the signs of ageing manifest themselves in the form of wrinkles and grey hair. But in some cases, hair starts to grey prematurely. The causes for this could be genetic or because of a weakened immune system. It is a pigment or colouring matter that gives the hair its colour. For reasons not yet known, when the pigment does not form, the particular strand of hair remains white. The white hair mixes with the dark hair and gives the impression of grey hair.

It is also found that deficiency of vitamins B12, C and E, as well as the shortage of the minerals including zinc and copper in the body, can affect hair colour. Smoking was also found to be responsible for the onset of premature greying. To begin with, the hair that has turned white cannot become dark again, except with the help of dyeing or colouring.

Do or dye?

Today, dyeing and colouring of the hair have become common. However, the use of chemical dyes and colourants can affect the structure of the hair. Repeated use of permanent dyes makes the hair more vulnerable to breakage and loss. The hair also loses its sheen and becomes dull, rough and discoloured. It can also trigger hair loss. Semi-permanent methods like hair rinses and creams also work by penetrating the cuticle but do not cause as much damage as permanent dyes. Semi-permanent methods are used for disguising grey hair, or for lending a richer colour to dull hair.

It is best to go in for a 100% natural and chemical-free hair colour that contains natural colourants like henna, indigo and catechu, along with other herbal extracts that help to restore health to the hair.

Home remedies

You can also prevent premature greying using kitchen ingredients. Here are a few home remedies that can help:

• Amla is said to prevent greying. Consume the juice of one amla mixed with a glass of water daily. Gooseberry is also said to boost the immune system. Roast dry amla in an iron kadai and powder it. You can add this powder to the henna paste and apply it on the hair.
• Those who use chemical dyes and colourants should take extra care of their hair, with regular hot oil therapy, in order to counteract the damage. Mix a tablespoon of coconut oil with a teaspoon of castor oil and apply on the hair. Then dip a towel in hot water, squeeze out the water and wrap the hot towel around the head, like a turban. Keep it on for five minutes. Repeat the hot towel wrap three to four times. This helps the hair and scalp absorb the oil better.
• Curry leaves are known to strengthen hair roots and follicles. Curry leaves are rich sources of beta-carotene and protein, which actually help control hair loss and encourage healthy hair growth. Apply a paste of curry leaves on the hair and wash it off after 20 to 30 minutes. This will help moisturise the scalp and prevent dryness.
• Include citrus fruits like oranges, lemon and grapefruit, tomato, sprouted grains and green leafy vegetables in your diet. Fruits should be a part of the daily diet, as many of them are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.

One of the most important aspects of beauty is to be aware of the damage caused by chemical ingredients. Avoid treatments that mar the natural beauty of the skin and hair.