Stress, alcohol, smoking or the genes What are the real reasons for gray hair?

Researchers identify gene for graying the hair
Excessive stress, alcohol and tobacco consumption, a vitamin deficiency or acidity of the body: These are some factors that are associated with the early graying of the hair. However, researchers in the UK have now apparently found the true cause: The gene IRF4.

Normal concomitant of the aging process
Big ears, back hair, more fat accumulation and gray hair: These are just a few developments that await us during the aging process. Some people are much more likely than others. Scientists in England have now found out why some people get gray hair earlier than others. Although popularly such factors as stress, smoking, alcohol or vitamin deficiency are mentioned as a reason for early graying, but the real reason is probably in the genome.

Some people have gray hair at a relatively young age. The cause of this is apparently in the genes. (Picture: Picture-Factory / fotolia.com)

Gene affects hair aging
A research team in the UK has identified the gene IRF4 as the main reason for the gray color of hair, as shown by a study published on Tuesday in the journal "Nature Communications" study. "We have identified a gene variation (allele) that turns gray-haired," said co-author Kaustubh Adhikari of London University College AFP. Certain genes that cause hair loss or hair color have been known for some time. "For the first time a gene has been identified that affects the aging of hair."

Gray hair gene especially in Europeans
To come to these conclusions, the scientists studied the DNA of more than 6,000 people. The so-called "gray hair gene" was found predominantly in Europeans. It is said that the first gray hairs arose in the Caucasian type on average at the age of 35 years. In the Asian type of graying start five, in the African type ten years later, said the researchers. Adhikari predicted that intervention in the process could help understand how the IRF4 gene works.

Gray hair is also perceived as sexy
The scientists are aware that many people invest a lot of time and money to dye their gray hair. Based on the new findings could possibly be slowed down in the future about gene changes, the graying and so preserve the colors of the hair longer. However, many people have no problems with their hair turning gray. Especially with some men, this is even called "sexy". For example, the American actor George Clooney was even named "Sexiest Man Alive" with his gray hair a few years ago. He himself said, "I love my gray hair." So it's a matter of taste whether you find the graying negative or not. However, if the first gray hairs are discovered at the age of 20 or earlier, health professionals advise consulting a doctor. (Ad)