Today Bryan Johnson posted a thread which summarized ways to reverse alopacia (baldness).

I asked OpenAI’s o1 model to use the above thread and create a regimen for reversing hair greying. Here is what it came up with. I also shared a comparative version.

Tackling Grey Hair: Steps to Maintain Your Natural Color 🌟🧵

Start Early 🚀

Don’t wait for visible greying. Early intervention may help slow down the progression of grey hair. The best time to focus on hair pigmentation is before significant greying occurs.

Nutrition 🥦

Ensure your diet includes adequate amounts of:

  • Vitamin B12: Deficiency has been linked to premature greying. Include foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. [Ref (1)]
  • Copper: Essential for melanin production, which gives hair its color. Foods rich in copper include nuts, seeds, and shellfish. [Ref (2)]
  • Iron: Low iron levels may contribute to hair greying. Incorporate leafy greens, legumes, and red meat into your diet. [Ref (3)]
  • Antioxidants: Vitamins A, C, and E help combat oxidative stress, potentially slowing hair greying. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. [Ref (4)]

Supplements

  • Catalase Enzyme Supplements: Catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide in hair follicles, which can cause hair to bleach itself. Some studies suggest that catalase supplements might help reduce grey hair. [Ref (5)]
  • Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA): An organic compound that may help restore hair color in certain cases. [Ref (6)]
  • Biotin: Supports overall hair health, though evidence on reversing grey hair is limited. [Ref (7)]

Note: Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements to understand potential side effects and interactions.

Topical Treatments 💆

  • Anti-Grey Hair Products: Topicals containing ingredients like catalase, melanin precursors, or copper peptides may be beneficial. [Ref (8)]
  • Natural Oils: Applying oils such as coconut oil infused with curry leaves or amla (Indian gooseberry) oil may nourish the scalp and hair. [Ref (9)]

Be cautious of possible skin irritation or allergic reactions. Perform a patch test before full application.

Address Underlying Medical Conditions 💊

Certain health issues can contribute to premature greying:

  • Thyroid Disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can affect hair pigmentation. [Ref (10)]
  • Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia may lead to increased hair greying. [Ref (3)]
  • Vitiligo: An autoimmune condition that affects melanin production. [Ref (11)]

Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment if you suspect underlying conditions.

Lifestyle Modifications 🌞

  • Stress Management: Chronic stress may accelerate greying. Engage in stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. [Ref (12)]
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking is associated with premature greying. Quitting may help slow the process. [Ref (13)]
  • Protect Hair from Environmental Damage: Excessive sun exposure and pollution can contribute to oxidative stress on hair follicles. Wear hats or use hair products with UV protection. [Ref (14)]

Consider Medications with Caution

  • Melanin-Stimulating Treatments: Some medications aim to promote melanin production, but their efficacy and safety are not well-established. [Ref (15)]
  • Potential Side Effects: Medications can have side effects ranging from mild skin irritation to more severe health risks.

Always discuss with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to understand benefits and risks.

Regular Monitoring 📝

  • Track Progress: Keep a journal of your dietary intake, supplements, and any treatments applied to monitor their effects over time.
  • Blood Tests: Regular blood work can help identify deficiencies in vitamins and minerals that may contribute to hair greying.

References

  1. Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hair Health
  2. Copper’s Role in Hair Pigmentation
  3. Iron Deficiency and Hair Health
  4. Oxidative Stress and Hair Aging
  5. Catalase Supplements and Grey Hair
  6. PABA and Hair Color Restoration
  7. Biotin’s Effect on Hair Growth
  8. Topical Treatments for Hair Pigmentation
  9. Natural Oils for Hair Care
  10. Thyroid Function and Hair Loss
  11. Vitiligo and Melanin Production
  12. Stress Impact on Hair Pigmentation
  13. Smoking and Premature Hair Greying
  14. Environmental Factors in Hair Aging
  15. Melanin-Stimulating Agents