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Scientists: Grey hair may be a thing of the past

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For most people, spotting a grey hair is a disheartening discovery. Others deliberately dye their hair grey as a fashion statement. Last year saw many 20-somethings running around with gorgeous grey hued hair.

Yet, when the process happens naturally, it's not as much fun. But we have some great news:

It was recently discovered that you might be able to stop this process before it even properly starts.

After analysing the DNA from more than 6 000 European, Native American and African volunteers, a study found that the IRF4 gene is found to be responsible for causing our hair to turn grey.

This gene helps to regulate and produce melanin, giving hair its colour. But as we age, less and fewer pigments are produced, causing the hair to lose its natural colour.

This may be reversible and, according to the Telegraph, Dr Kaustubh Adhikari, a study author from University College London, feels confident about it. He says knowing about this gene now helps to ask more direct questions about how it actually functions.

Scientists are now taking the next step in developing and manufacturing a cosmetic application that will counteract this gene by slowing it down and maybe even stopping it altogether. Grey hair no more! Well, unless you dye it that way yourself…


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