Melanin Benefits for Hair

People with Eumelanin have black and brown shades of, while people with red and yellow hair shades are known to have Pheomelanin. If the melanin production slows down in our hair, it begins to turn white or grey.

Melanin also protects our hair from damage caused by UV radiation from the sun. Grey and white hair are often seen as signs of ageing. Melanocytes gradually produce less melanin as we grow older. This reduction in melanin leads to the greying of hair. 

Interestingly, when hair begins to grow, its initial colouration within the hair follicle is white. However, gradually over time, melanocytes become active and deposit melanin into the hair cells, thereby imparting a darker hue to the strands.

For further insights into melanin production in hair and strategies to enhance it, keep following along.

WHAT IS MELANIN IN HAIR?

Melanin is a complex group of molecules crucial for various biological functions across many organisms. In humans, it regulates the pigmentation of skin, hair, and eyes. In fact, melanin is the main ingredient in hair colour. 

There are three main types of melanin present in our body: eumelanin, pheomelanin, and neuromelanin.

Eumelanin contributes to darker pigmentation such as black and deep brown, whereas pheomelanin results in lighter pigmentation seen in features like lips (with pink or red tones) and red hair. 

Neuromelanin, which exhibits even darker pigmentation, typically does not develop at birth but accumulates throughout one's lifetime.

Melanin determines the colour of hair depending on its type and quantity present. Black hair signifies a high concentration of eumelanin. Moderate levels of eumelanin result in brown hair, while low levels result in blonde hair. Red or pinkish blond hair indicates a higher presence of pheomelanin alongside some eumelanin. 

Melanin also acts as a natural shield against UV radiation, offering greater protection to darker hair shades from sun damage. 

The production of melanin can be influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, which account for changes in hair colour over time or in specific circumstances.

4 TRICKS TO INCREASE MELANIN PRODUCTION IN HAIR

Want to know about how to increase melanin production in hair? Read on to find out four easy ways :

• Ensure a Balanced Diet: Consuming foods abundant in essential vitamins and minerals is crucial. Vitamins like B, C, and E, along with minerals such as iron and copper, contribute significantly to maintaining healthy hair pigmentation. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your meals supports the overall health of your hair follicles.

• Maintain Scalp Health: Opt for hair care products that include antioxidants to nurture melanocytes on the scalp. Seek out shampoos and conditioners enriched with protective and nourishing elements.

• Ensure Adequate Hydration: Maintaining proper moisture levels in the scalp is essential for the well-being of melanocytes.

• Manage Stress Effectively: Oxidative stress can impact the vitality of melanocytes. Adopting stress-relief techniques can support the resilience of pigment-producing cells.

Melanin serves as more than a mere pigment for our hair; it plays a pivotal role in our visual identity as human beings and acts as a crucial shield against external factors. Nurturing melanin through a nutritious diet, proper care, and a well-balanced lifestyle is essential for maintaining the natural colour and health of our hair.

WHICH FOODS CONTAIN MELANIN?

Apart from the above mentioned lifestyle choices, some food items will also ensure melanin production in hair - 

• Foods Rich in Antioxidants - Dark Chocolate, Leafy Greens, Blueberries, pecans, beans, artichokes

• Foods Rich in Copper - Lentils (dal), Crabmeat, Peanuts, Almonds, Mushrooms

• Vitamin A : Orange Vegetables, Fish, Meat

• Vitamin C : Citrus Fruits, Berries, Leafy Vegetables

MELANIN SUPPLEMENTS FOR HAIR

Numerous melanin supplements claim to enhance melanin production and restore your hair colour. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. Most of these supplements lack scientific backing, raising concerns about their safety and potential side effects.

As with any supplement, it is important to consult your healthcare provider before beginning melanin supplements.  Following are two completely natural supplements which work to boost melanin production - 

• Vitamin B12 : Vitamin B12 stimulates the production of melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin synthesis. Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its colour, and adequate levels of vitamin B12 ensure that melanocytes function optimally. 

This vitamin also supports the overall health of hair follicles and encourages hair growth. Therefore, sufficient intake of vitamin B12 helps maintain natural hair colour and promotes healthy hair by supporting melanin production.

• Vitamin B6 : Vitamin B6 plays a huge role in converting the amino acid tyrosine into melanin. Specifically, vitamin B6 is involved in the conversion of tyrosine to dopaquinone, a key step in melanin synthesis. This vitamin also supports the function of enzymes responsible for melanin production within melanocytes. 

Adequate levels of vitamin B6 ensure efficient melanin synthesis, which contributes to the pigmentation of hair, skin, and eyes. Therefore, vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in maintaining proper melanin levels.

CONCLUSION

Melanin is crucial for hair colour and UV protection. Factors like sun exposure, stress, and hormonal changes can reduce melanin production, leading to grey or white hair. Supporting melanin production holistically includes eating antioxidants, managing stress and chemical exposure, and practising sun safety. These steps can help maintain natural hair colour and overall health. Adjusting your diet and lifestyle supports hair and general well-being. 

While research explores supplements and melanin-boosting foods, a comprehensive approach offers promising long-term benefits for hair health. Consult a healthcare professional before significant lifestyle changes.