Melanin is responsible for coloring both hair and skin. Each hair follicle has two melanin reservoirs:one, located at the base of the root, contains active melanocytes, the other, at the top of the root, contains dormant melanocytes. With each new life cycle of the hair, dormant melanocytes migrate to the base to become active. The multiplication of cycles leads to a depletion of the stock of melanocytes. It can also be aggravated by oxidative stress (the production of free radicals) due to UV rays, the excessive use of styling devices… And genetics in all this? There is no rule, but the appearance of white hair (called "canitie") generally arrives later in black and Asian skin. Contrary to popular belief, hair does not suddenly turn white. Besides... he's not even white! Since the fiber is devoid of melanin, its "color" is actually an optical illusion. As the growth cycles progress, the active melanocytes decrease until they disappear, making the hair more fragile, rough and porous. As the natural pigments play with the light and there is none left, it looks dull.
To correct those who think that gray hair is inevitable, the Kérastase research laboratories have developed a complex of antioxidants (ferulic acid + vitamins C and E + UV filter), which they have incorporated into the Densifique Youth Serum ( €80). The promise ? This product would be able to delay the disappearance of melanocytes and therefore the appearance of white hair. We can't wait to test! For the moment, there is no treatment that would recolor hair devoid of melanin. However, according to Patrick Canivet, Technical Director of L'Oréal Professional Products:"Research is on the right track. I would not be surprised if, within ten years, we manage to completely stop the arrival of white hair. ” Case to follow, then… In the meantime, if your mane is starting to turn gray, the only alternative is coloring.
