
Why are so many people in 20s and 30s getting premature grey hair? Dermatologist shares causes, what can help ‘reverse'
According to Dr Nathan, while there's no guaranteed way to reverse premature greying, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring adequate nutrition can help slow down the process. She shared a video to explain this.
'Why are we all getting so grey, so young. I am 29,' said a content creator in a video as she showed her hair. Reacting to it, Dr Nathan said, 'If you are in your 20s or early 30s and are starting to notice grey hair, then listen up – I am a dermatologist and you may have premature hair greying. I will tell you what causes it and how you may be able to reverse it.'
Her's how to reverse premature grey hair, as per Dr Nathan:
A post shared by Dr. Neera Nathan (@dermatologysurgeon)
Sharing the causes, she said, 'First things first: You may want to get your blood drawn. Low iron, copper, vitamin B12 and thyroid levels have been linked to premature hair greying. Correcting those deficiencies may help to bring back colour to your hair.'
Dr Nathan said, 'Remember when your mom told you not to stress because you would turn grey? It turns out mom was right; there is really compelling evidence that stress can make hair turn grey or white prematurely. Reversing stress can even help the pigmentation come back into your hair.'
She added, 'As if you need another reason not to smoke or tan, oxidative stress from smoking in the sun damages pigment cells as the hair root, which leads to grey hair.'
'So, in addition to managing risk factors, there are some new promising topical treatments that may help to slow or even reverse grey hair. These contain antioxidants or compounds that may help protect pigment cells in the hair follicle or even stimulate pigment cells to produce more colour. It is critical to know that these treatments are probably only going to work if less than 30 percent of your hair is grey to begin with,' she concluded.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Kargil Vijay Diwas: Honouring courage beyond the mountains
Dr (Prof) Sadhana Kala is a USA-trained robotic & laparoscopic surgeon, Uppsala University, Sweden, trained fertility specialist, and 'National Icon Endoscopic Surgeon' of India. University topper and winner of several gold and silver medals and Certificates of Honor and the unique 'Distinction' in medicine in medical college, she is the youngest-ever Professor in any medical college anywhere, and the only-ever gynec Hon Consultant to the Army, Navy and Air Force. FORMER: President Family Welfare Foundation of India (now closed) one of the few UN -accredited NGO since 1997; Member of Central Consumer Protection Council, Government of India, the apex national advisory body on consumer affairs; Advisor, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India; Member, Advisory Committee, MTNL (Delhi). Awardee of C L Jhaveri and P N Behl Awards of Indian Medical Association for professional excellence. Chief emeritus and currently Sr Consultant gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon, Moolchan Medcity and Apollo Cradle Hospitals, New Delhi. She is a published-writer on varied topics. Facebook: Twitter: She also writes at Air Vice Marshal Prakash Kala is an experimental test pilot and is the co-writer of the blog. LESS ... MORE Introduction: A day etched in valor Every year on July 26, India solemnly observes Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating the valor and sacrifice of the armed forces who secured a decisive victory during the Kargil War of 1999. Set against the daunting terrain of the Himalayas, the war was not merely a battle for territory but a defining moment of national resilience, military strategy, and unity. Twenty-six years later, the legacy of Kargil continues to inspire generations. The prelude: Betrayal at high altitudes The seeds of the Kargil conflict were sown in deceit. Under the guise of regular winter troop withdrawals along the Line of Control (LoC), Pakistani soldiers and militants infiltrated Indian territory, occupying strategic posts in the Kargil sector of Jammu & Kashmir. These positions, often located at altitudes of 16,000–18,000 feet, overlooked the vital National Highway 1A, which connects Srinagar to Leh, posing a significant threat to India's military and logistical infrastructure in the region. The intrusions were initially discovered by local shepherds, triggering a series of escalations that quickly transformed into full-scale conflict. Operation Vijay: A response of steeled resolve India's response to the invasion was swift and strategic. The government launched 'Operation Vijay' on May 26, 1999, to flush out infiltrators and reclaim the occupied territories. What followed was a gruelling 60-day war, characterized by intense artillery exchanges, high-altitude assaults, and immense human cost. Indian soldiers, drawn from regiments across the country—Gorkhas, Rajputs, Sikhs, Grenadiers, and others—scaled near-vertical cliffs under enemy fire, often in sub-zero temperatures, to retake peaks like Tiger Hill, Tololing, and Point 4875. By July 26, the Indian Army had successfully cleared most of the positions, forcing Pakistan to withdraw and accept a return to the status quo ante. Human cost: A heavy price for victory India lost over 500 soldiers during the conflict. These were not just soldiers, but sons, brothers, fathers, and friends—each with a life and story interrupted. Names like Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Anuj Nayyar, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar became symbols of gallantry. Captain Batra's famous war cry, 'Yeh dil maange more!' resonated across the nation and became emblematic of India's fighting spirit. Awarded the Param Vir Chakra, his actions at Point 4875 are still recounted with reverence. Their sacrifices transformed a generation's understanding of patriotism—not as flag-waving nationalism, but as quiet courage in the face of mortal danger. Beyond the battlefield: Lessons in policy and perception The Kargil War had broader implications than just military success. It reshaped India's defense policies, intelligence coordination, and international diplomacy. Intelligence revamp: The initial infiltration went undetected by Indian intelligence agencies, exposing serious lapses. This led to the reorganization of intelligence frameworks, the strengthening of the Technical Intelligence (TECHINT) apparatus, and the development of more integrated surveillance mechanisms. Defense modernization: The war highlighted the importance of high-altitude warfare readiness. India began investing in modern artillery, UAVs, satellite imaging, and improved equipment for soldiers stationed in challenging terrain. Diplomatic wins: Unlike in past conflicts, India took the high road diplomatically. Then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee secured broad international support, particularly from the United States, which pressured Pakistan to withdraw. This isolated Pakistan diplomatically and exposed the façade of the non-state actor used to justify the intrusion. Media and memory: Kargil in public consciousness Kargil was India's first televised war. Channels like Doordarshan and NDTV brought real-time coverage from the frontlines into Indian homes. Images of young officers giving interviews before heading into battle, and the funerals of martyred soldiers, etched themselves into the national psyche. Films like 'LOC: Kargil', 'Lakshya', and 'Shershaah' further immortalized these stories, not as propaganda, but as poignant reminders of bravery. Music, too, played a role—songs like 'Sandese Aate Hain' are still played on Kargil Diwas, invoking teary-eyed recollection. Commemorations: Remembering with purpose Across the country, Kargil Vijay Diwas is marked with ceremonies, marches, and tributes. The Kargil War Memorial in Dras, built in the shadow of the recaptured peaks, becomes a focal point. Thousands—veterans, families of martyrs, schoolchildren, and ordinary citizens—gather there to pay homage. Kargil Wall Memorial, Dras In Delhi and other cities, events are organized by the Indian Army, the Air Force, and civil society organizations. Speeches, poetry, and photo exhibitions recall the cost of freedom and the commitment to its defense. The significance today: More than just history In an age dominated by geopolitical uncertainty, the legacy of Kargil holds enduring relevance: National unity: At a time when divisions often dominate discourse, the memory of Kargil unites India—across religion, region, and ideology. At a time when divisions often dominate discourse, the memory of Kargil unites India—across religion, region, and ideology. Civil-military bond: It reminds civilians of the sacrifices made to uphold national sovereignty, and bolsters respect for those who serve. It reminds civilians of the sacrifices made to uphold national sovereignty, and bolsters respect for those who serve. Preparedness: With threats along both western and northern borders evolving, Kargil is a case study in asymmetric warfare, terrain-based strategy, and the importance of inter-agency coordination. Personal stories: From grief to grit Behind every gallantry award lies a family shaped by loss—and pride. Mothers like Kamla Batra (mother of Captain Vikram Batra) became voices of resilience, turning personal grief into national pride. In villages across India, schools, roads, and stadiums have been named after martyrs. Their legacies continue in cadets joining the armed forces, inspired not only by uniforms but also by the purpose. Conclusion: A nation forever indebted Kargil Vijay Diwas is more than a commemoration—it is a vow renewed each year. A vow to never forget the soldiers who fought where few dared to climb. A vow to uphold the integrity of a nation they defended with their lives. And a vow to ensure that courage, when remembered, becomes the seed of more courage. As India stands tall today on the global stage—economically, diplomatically, and militarily—the shadow of those peaks remains behind us. Not as a burden, but as a silent salute to the few who gave their all so that many could live free. Let every July 26 remind us: Freedom is not free. But some paid for it in full. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.

The Hindu
7 hours ago
- The Hindu
Foreign medical graduates working in Telangana demand equal pay and recognition
Hundreds of Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) working as interns/house surgeons across Telangana's government and private hospitals have raised concerns over persistent disparities in stipend, recognition and working conditions, despite shouldering equal responsibilities as their Indian-trained counterparts. The Telangana Junior Doctors Association (T-JUDA), in a formal representation submitted to the Director of Medical Education (DME), has called for urgent intervention to address what they term as 'systemic discrimination' against FMG house surgeons. The representation, made on behalf of FMG interns deployed across 34 government hospitals and several private institutions in the State, highlights how these medicos, who cleared the mandatory Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE), are being pushed to the margins despite their contribution to the State's healthcare system. 'Once certified, we are allotted internships by the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC) based strictly on merit. We are posted in district hospitals, teaching institutions, and tertiary care centres where we carry out full clinical duties, including emergency care, ward management, and documentation. Yet, we are paid a stipend of ₹5,000 per month, the lowest among all medical interns in the State, and in several cases, even this amount is delayed for months or not disbursed at all,' said a FMG intern posted at a district hospital. 'This is far below the salary paid even to Class IV employees in hospitals. The disparity is not just financial but that of neglecting FMGs despite their service,' the intern added. A Government Order (GO) issued by the Telangana government in 2023 mandated a monthly stipend of ₹25,906 for MBBS interns working in both government and private medical colleges. This amount was revised to ₹29,792 through an updated GO issued on June 28, 2025. Dr. Issac Newton, President of T-JUDA pointed out that FMG interns are routinely deployed to manage critical responsibilities due to staff shortages. In some hospitals, they are expected to function at the level of Casualty Medical Officers (CMOs), handling emergency rooms and night shifts. 'They do equal work, but there is no equal recognition or pay,' he added. Another intern said 'Most FMGs, now in their late twenties, face financial and emotional stress. Many have taken large education loans to study abroad and return home with the hope of serving the public. The uncertainty and irregularity in stipends are adding to their mental strain, affecting both morale and performance.' Calling for urgent redressal, JUDA placed three specific demands before the DME. These include immediate inclusion of FMG interns under the revised house surgeon stipend structure, timely and equal disbursement of stipends across all government and private hospitals and formal recognition of FMGs as equal contributors to the healthcare workforce, in line with National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines.


Economic Times
7 hours ago
- Economic Times
What is the viral 6-6-6 walking challenge, and what is this weight-loss trend really doing to you?
iStock A new fitness trend called the 6-6-6 walking challenge involves walking for 60 minutes daily with warm-up and cool-down. Experts say it is easy to remember and accessible to all fitness levels. Studies show walking improves health and reduces mortality risk. It may aid weight loss when combined with diet. (Image: iStock) If you've been anywhere near TikTok or Instagram lately, chances are you've come across a curious fitness routine dubbed the '6-6-6 walking challenge.' No, it's not what it sounds like—it's not satanic, and it's not a gym cult either. In fact, this viral challenge is surprisingly wholesome, aiming to improve physical and mental health by encouraging a structured walking habit. But does it live up to the hype? According to a report in Women's Health, the 6-6-6 challenge involves walking for 60 minutes a day at either 6 a.m. or 6 p.m., beginning with a six-minute warm-up and ending with a six-minute cool-down. It's the latest in a long line of numerical fitness trends—think 12-3-30 or 3-2-8—that simplify workouts into digestible routines. Part of the appeal lies in the ease of remembering the format. Lindsey Bomgren, CPT and founder of Nourish Move Love, told Women's Health that people naturally gravitate toward number-based challenges because they remove guesswork and offer a clear, repeatable formula. 'It's accessible to all fitness levels while still offering tangible health benefits,' she noted. Plus, the challenge encourages consistency—often the missing ingredient in long-term fitness success. While it may seem too simple to be effective, walking has long been backed by research as a powerful tool for overall health. A 2021 JAMA Network Open study found that adults who took at least 7,000 steps a day had up to a 70% lower risk of mortality than those who didn't. Since the 6-6-6 method encourages about an hour of walking (roughly 6,000 to 7,000 steps), it could have meaningful health implications if sustained. As for the specific timing—6 a.m. or 6 p.m.—Bomgren points out it's more about habit-building than magic hours. However, walking post-meal has been shown to regulate blood sugar, aid digestion, and boost heart health. If weight loss is your goal, this trend could help, but it's not a silver bullet. Janet Hamilton, CSCS and owner of Running Strong, notes that while any additional movement can aid in weight loss, it must be paired with dietary adjustments to create a calorie deficit. 'You might see your weight drop gradually over time, but it's not just about the steps,' she says. A 2023 Obesity study even observed that people who worked out early in the day had lower BMIs and smaller waistlines—though it stopped short of proving direct causation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Everygirl® (@theeverygirl) Beyond shedding pounds, walking strengthens bones, supports cardiovascular health, and enhances mental well-being. A PLOS One study from 2022 linked brisk walking to improved bone density, while a JAMA study tied higher step counts to reduced mortality. The mental health benefits are equally compelling. A 2024 review in JAMA Network Open found that walking reduced symptoms of depression, and a 2022 analysis in Applied Psychology revealed walking in nature significantly eased anxiety. Though six-minute warm-ups and cool-downs may seem arbitrary, they're right in line with recommendations from the American Heart Association. They help prepare your body for exertion and ease it back into rest, reducing injury risk and aiding recovery. In a sea of fleeting fitness trends, the 6-6-6 walking challenge may actually have staying power. It isn't a magic bullet, but it might be the nudge you need to get moving. Whether you're chasing a healthier heart, a trimmer waistline, or simply a bit of mental clarity—walking just might walk you there.