As it turns out, grey hair could be protecting us from cancer.
But now studies are suggesting the reason stem cells decline is that as they are increasingly exposed to radiation and chemicals that harm DNA (like UVA rays and parabens), they become damaged and turn in to melancoytes. This ultimately leads to fewer melanocytes as there are fewer stem cells capable of topping up the melanocyte pool and more grey hair. But its this process, scientists suggests, that is protecting us as it discourages the proliferation of cells with damaged DNA, which could pass on mutations.
But arent we at risk of undoing all that good work natures performing on our behalf by dying the grey hair back again? If youre worried by reports that hair dye may cause cancer, know that according to Cancer Research, there is virtually no connection between the two. Other lifestyle factors like diet and smoking are much more of a concern, they say.
Grey hair today, not gone tomorrow. Hopefully.