Hair bleaches naturally as one grows up: Study

London, February 25: Scientists have possibly unraveled the mystery behind the graying of hair. As per the research team in Europe, hair bleaches itself with progression in age.

Hair turning gray is the result of the huge accumulation of hydrogen peroxide, which happens due to the wear and tear of hair follicles. Hydrogen peroxide curbs the regular synthesis of the hair’s natural pigment, that is, melanin.

Gerald Weissmann, the editor-in-chief of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) was quoted as saying, “All of our hair cells make a tiny bit of hydrogen peroxide, but as we get older, this little bit becomes a lot.” He further added, “We bleach our hair pigment from within, and our hair turns grey and then white. This research, however, is an important first step to get at the root of the problem, so to speak.”

The scientists made the latest discovery after analyzing cell cultures of human hair. They found that hydrogen peroxide amasses due to decrease in the quantity of an enzyme. This enzyme splits up hydrogen into water and oxygen (catalase).

Scientists also found that the harm caused by hydrogen peroxide is not restored by the hair follicles. This is so because the enzymes, which perform this function drop down to very low levels. These enzymes are namely MSR A and B.

The reduction in levels of MSR A and B coupled with an increase in the levels of hydrogen peroxide disturbs the formation of an enzyme named tyrosinase. This causes the production of melanin in hair follicles.

Melanin pigment is accountable for the hair, skin and eye color of a person. An increase or decrease in the production of melanin can cause a change in the color of our hair, eyes or skin.

Experts think that the pattern of breakdown in hair discovered by them could be the same as the one that occurs in the skin. This could offer a plausible explanation of vitiligo.

Weissmann explained, “As any blue-haired lady will attest, sometimes hair dyes don’t quite work as anticipated. This study is a prime example of how basic research in biology can benefit us in ways never imagined.”