The causes of white hair, medically known as achromotrichia or canities, refer to factors that contribute to the loss of pigment in hair follicles. A common example is the natural process of aging, where hair gradually turns gray or white due to a decline in melanin production.
Understanding the causes of white hair can assist in identifying potential underlying medical conditions, offering treatment options, and promoting hair health. It holds relevance in dermatology, gerontology, and genetics. Historically, the study of hair pigmentation played a crucial role in the development of hair dyeing and coloring techniques.