Hair is one of the most important aspects of a person’s appearance. It is something that we spend a lot of time and money on to maintain and style. However, sometimes unexpected changes can occur to our hair that leave us wondering why. One such change is when black hair starts turning gold. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and what you can do about it.
Before we dive into the reasons why black hair turns gold, it’s important to understand the basics of hair pigmentation. The color of our hair is determined by the amount and type of pigment in the hair shaft. There are two types of pigments that determine hair color: eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for brown and black hair, while pheomelanin is responsible for red and blonde hair. The amount of these pigments in the hair shaft, as well as their distribution, determine the color of the hair.
Now, let’s explore the reasons why black hair turns gold.
- Sun exposure
Sun exposure can cause black hair to turn gold. When hair is exposed to the sun, the ultraviolet (UV) rays can break down the eumelanin pigments, leading to a loss of color. This process is called photobleaching. As a result, the hair can become lighter, and in some cases, turn gold.
To prevent sun damage, it’s important to wear a hat or use a sunscreen spray on your hair when you’re spending time in the sun. Additionally, you can use products that contain UV filters to protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Age
Another reason why black hair may turn gold is due to the natural aging process. As we age, the amount of eumelanin in our hair decreases, and the hair can become lighter in color. This process is more common in people with naturally lighter hair colors, but it can also occur in people with black hair.
- Chemical treatments
Chemical treatments like hair dye, bleach, and highlights can also cause black hair to turn gold. These treatments can damage the hair shaft, leading to a loss of eumelanin pigments. In some cases, the hair may turn gold or even orange.
If you’re considering a chemical treatment for your hair, it’s important to choose a reputable stylist and to take proper care of your hair before and after the treatment. Additionally, you can use hair care products that are specifically designed for color-treated hair to help maintain the color and prevent damage.
- Nutritional deficiencies
A lack of certain nutrients in the diet can also cause black hair to turn gold. Specifically, a lack of vitamin B12 and iron can lead to hair discoloration. These nutrients are essential for the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. Without enough of these nutrients, the hair can become lighter in color.
To prevent nutritional deficiencies, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Foods that are high in vitamin B12 include meat, fish, and dairy products, while iron-rich foods include spinach, beans, and red meat.
- Genetics
Finally, genetics can also play a role in hair color changes. Some people may be more prone to hair discoloration due to their genetics. For example, some people may have a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin, leading to lighter hair colors.
While genetics cannot be changed, it’s still important to take proper care of your hair to prevent damage and maintain its health.
What can you do about it?
If you’re experiencing black hair turning gold, there are a few things you can do about it. First, it’s important to identify the underlying cause of the discoloration. If the cause is sun exposure, make sure to protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a sunscreen spray. If the cause is a chemical treatment, consider giving your hair a break from treatments or using products designed for color-treated hair. If the cause is a nutritional deficiency, talk to your doctor about taking supplements or adjusting your diet.
discoloration. If the cause is sun exposure, make sure to protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a sunscreen spray. If the cause is a chemical treatment, consider giving your hair a break from treatments or using products designed for color-treated hair. If the cause is a nutritional deficiency, talk to your doctor about taking supplements or adjusting your diet.
In addition to addressing the underlying cause of hair discoloration, there are also a few hair care tips you can follow to maintain the health and appearance of your hair. These include:
- Using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent further damage to your hair.
- Using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to nourish and hydrate your hair.
- Avoiding heat styling tools like flat irons and curling irons, as these can damage the hair shaft.
- Getting regular trims to prevent split ends and breakage.
- Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle wet hair, as wet hair is more prone to damage.
In conclusion, black hair turning gold can be a surprising and frustrating experience, but there are a few different reasons why it can happen. Sun exposure, age, chemical treatments, nutritional deficiencies, and genetics can all play a role in hair discoloration. By identifying the underlying cause and taking proper care of your hair, you can help prevent further damage and maintain the health and appearance of your hair.