Is your pubic hair turning white? 7 possible causes of it

Hair follicles have melanin. As we get older, these follicles decrease, making your hair turn grey or white. This process happens with hair all over the body, including pubic hair. While hair colour changes are normal with age, white pubic hair can show up at any time. So, if you also spot your pubic hair turning white, don’t panic! We have a gynecologist to explain what the causes are behind grey or white pubic hair and tips to reduce the risk of it.

7 causes of white pubic hair

Here are 7 causes that may cause pubic hair to turn white or grey:

1. Vitamin B12 deficiency

What you eat plays an important role in regulating your body’s functions. When you lack this essential nutrient, your body does not produce enough red blood cells, which can speed up the greying process. You may add vitamin B12-rich foods such as tuna, sardines, organ meats, cheese, eggs, yoghurt, etc. in your diet to fulfil your daily requirements.

Health Shots Recommends: Add these vitamin B12 capsules to your diet to fight the deficiency

2. Stress

Chronic stress has been linked to various health issues, including premature white hair. When the body is under stress, it releases hormones that can disrupt the production of melanin and accelerate the agieng process. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, stress can cause hair to turn grey because it affects stem cells, which are responsible for regenerating hair pigment. So, white pubic hair is a common problem that occurs due to stress.

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3. Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a skin condition characterised by the loss of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of the skin, hair, and eyes. When melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, are destroyed or impaired, it can result in patches of depigmented skin and hair, including in the pubic area.

4. Chemical exposure

Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as those found in hair removal creams, intimate washes, and soaps, can damage hair follicles and alter hair colour. Over time, continuous exposure to these chemicals can lead to premature greying of hair, including pubic hair. You should either use these products with caution or avoid them completely.

Also read: Do you still believe in these myths about pubic hair? We are here to debunk them

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5. Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in determining when your hair turns grey. If your parents experienced premature greying or had white hair at an early age, you may be more likely to develop white pubic hair earlier in life as well. A study published by the Ageing Research Review also found that genetic predisposition can influence the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour, leading to premature greying in some individuals.

6. Smoking

Smoking is known to have numerous adverse effects on health, including its impact on hair colour. A study published by the Indian Dermatology Online Journal has shown that smoking can accelerate the greying process, leading to premature grey hair in both smokers and passive smokers. This is thought to be due to the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke, which can damage hair follicles and disrupt melanin production.

7. Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes, particularly those associated with menopause, can also influence hair colour. Fluctuations in hormone levels can affect melanin production and lead to the development of white pubic hair. Additionally, hormonal imbalances caused by conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adrenal gland disorders can contribute to premature greying of public hair.

5 tips to prevent white pubic hair

• Adequate nutrition is essential to avoid white pubic hair. Make sure your diet is packed with all the essential vitamins and minerals.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption as they can accelerate hair greying.
• Manage your stress levels by practising yoga and meditation.
• Avoid using scented intimate hygiene products that contain harsh chemicals.
• Consult your doctor if it is a result of a medical condition such as PCOS, vitiligo, or hormonal imbalance.

Following these tips will help you reduce the risk of white pubic hair!