Explore The Top 14 Foods Rich In Melanin For Hair Prevent Grey Hair

Melanin is an essential pigment that determines the colour of our skin, hair, and eyes. I bet you didn't know this. In addition to its decorative function, melanin serves as a natural shield against harmful UV radiation, oxidative stress, and environmental harm. 

For those aiming to improve their hair health—whether to encourage growth, preserve the natural colour, or fight against greying—eating high-melanin foods for hair can be very advantageous. 

These meals, which are frequently rich in copper, tyrosine, vitamins, and antioxidants, promote melanin synthesis and shield hair from harm, keeping your hair healthy and vibrant. This blog will discuss some foods that increase melanin and how they can improve the natural colour and vibrancy of your hair. 
 

Table Of Contents

1. What Is Melanin For Hair?

2. Which Food Gives Melanin To Hair?

3. How Do You Increase Melanin In Your Hair?

4. Can Melanin Reverse Grey Hair?

5. Dietitian's Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

What Is Melanin For Hair?

Melanin is produced by melanocytes, specialised cells in the skin and hair follicles. There are two main types of melanin:

• Eumelanin: Responsible for brown and black hues in hair and skin.
• Pheomelanin: Contributes to red and yellow tones.

Melanin production is influenced by genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. While genetics play a dominant role, nutrition is a crucial modifiable factor supporting optimal melanin synthesis and hair health.

Which Food Gives Melanin To Hair?

Some of the best foods food rich in melanin for hair are:

1. Dark Leafy Greens

These greens are rich in copper, iron, and vitamins A and C, which promote scalp health, improve blood circulation, and boost melanin synthesis through their rich nutrient profile.

Sources:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Swiss chard
• Collard greens
   

2. Nuts And Seeds

Nuts and seeds are one of the best foods to increase melanin in hair. Regular consumption of nuts and seeds strengthens hair follicles and enhances the pigmentation process, as they are rich in vitamin E, zinc and copper.

Sources:

• Almonds
• Walnuts
• Sesame seeds
• Sunflower seeds
   

3. Seafood

Shellfish is particularly beneficial for its role in activating tyrosinase, the enzyme necessary for melanin production. They are rich in zinc and copper.

Sources:

• Oysters
• Crab
• Shrimp
   

4. Berries

Berries are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids that help combat oxidative damage and stimulate melanin production naturally.

Sources:

• Blueberries
• Strawberries
• Blackberries
• Raspberries
   

5. Eggs

Eggs support overall hair health by promoting keratin production and melanin synthesis. They contain biotin, vitamin D, and amino acids like tyrosine. No wonder eggs are a key ingredient in the DIY hair masks that you put on a Sunday!

Also Read: Know All About The Best Biotin Tablets For Hair Growth

6. Avocados

Avocados are packed with vitamin E, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They nourish the scalp and protect melanocytes from oxidative stress, aiding in hair colour preservation.

7. Beans and Lentils

Legumes are excellent sources of iron, zinc, and protein that support healthy blood flow to hair follicles and strengthen hair strands, aiding in pigmentation.

8. Carrots and Sweet Potatoes

Carrots and sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A). Vitamin A promotes sebum production, keeping the scalp healthy and enhancing melanin synthesis.

9. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate supports melanogenesis while offering antioxidant protection for hair and skin. They are high in copper, flavonoids, and magnesium.

10. Mushrooms

Mushrooms play a significant role in maintaining melanocyte activity and promoting natural hair pigmentation. They are excellent sources of copper. You can indulge in shiitake, portobello, and cremini mushrooms.

11. Beetroot

Contains iron and antioxidants that support healthy blood flow and melanin production, which are much needed for your hair health. Enjoy as a salad or juice, and your hair improves with time.

12. Curry Leaves

Antioxidants, vitamins (such as B and C), and minerals (like iron) found in curry leaves enhance the formation of melanin and nourish hair follicles. By offering vital nutrients that shield melanocytes—the cells that produce melanin—from harm, they may delay the onset of premature greying. Curry leaves are thought to encourage healthier, more pigmented hair when consumed regularly or applied topically.

Also Read: 8 Proven Vitamin B12 Benefits For Hair & Scalp Health!

13. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Vitamin C and antioxidants included in amla (Indian gooseberry) help shield melanocytes—the cells that produce melanin—from oxidative damage. Additionally, it encourages the generation of melanin, which may improve natural hair pigmentation and delay premature greying, and it nourishes hair follicles and scalp health. 

A traditional method for keeping healthier, darker hair is to apply amla topically or consume it on a regular basis.

14. Ashwagandha 

An adaptogenic herb called ashwagandha aids in lowering stress, which is frequently linked to melanin loss and early greying. Moreover, it includes antioxidants that shield melanocytes—the cells that produce melanin—from oxidative damage and promote general hormonal balance. Ashwagandha may indirectly promote the development of melanin in hair by enhancing scalp health and lowering stress.

Also Read: Ashwagandha For Stress: Can This Ayurvedic Supplement Reduce Tension & Anxiety? Let's Find Out! 

How Do You Increase Melanin In Your Hair?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and assisting your body's natural processes are the major ways to increase the amount of melanin in your hair. The secret is a well-balanced diet full of important nutrients that are necessary for the formation of melanin. Melanin synthesis can be supported by foods rich in copper, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E. 

The required nutrients can be found, for instance, in citrus fruits, dark leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, nuts, seeds, and seafood like oysters. Foods high in antioxidants, like green tea and berries, may also be beneficial because they shield melanocytes—the cells that produce melanin—from oxidative stress.

In addition to diet, melanin levels can be maintained by lifestyle choices like lowering stress, quitting smoking, and shielding your hair from too much sun exposure. Hair health and pigmentation retention have long been achieved by the use of natural medicines such as henna, bhringraj, and amla (Indian gooseberry).

Can Melanin Reverse Grey Hair?

Melanin itself cannot reverse grey hair, but promoting melanin production may help slow the greying process. Grey hair occurs when melanocytes in hair follicles stop producing melanin, often due to age, genetics, or stress. Once hair loses melanin, it doesn’t naturally regain pigment.

However, some nutrients and herbs might help slow or reduce greying if melanocytes are still active. For instance, copper-rich foods (like black sesame seeds) aid melanin synthesis by activating the tyrosinase enzyme. Antioxidant-rich foods like amla and curry leaves protect melanocytes from oxidative stress, which is a key factor in premature greying.

Also Read: Can Black Seed Oil For Hair Transform Your Hair Care Routine? Know It Here! 

Dietitian's Recommendation

To enhance melanin for hair wellness, incorporate a nutrient-dense diet emphasising copper, iron, and vitamins. Savour copper-loaded foods such as lentils, black sesame seeds, and cashews since they support melanin production. 

Iron found in spinach, beets, and legumes enhances oxygen delivery to hair follicles, aiding in pigment creation. Incorporate sources of Vitamin B12 such as eggs, fish, and dairy to avoid early greying.

Amla and curry leaves, which are rich in antioxidants, safeguard melanocytes from harm, whereas nuts and seeds offer vital omega-3 fatty acids. Keep hydrated and alleviate stress with yoga or meditation to preserve healthy melanin levels. A nutritious diet promotes lasting health for hair and scalp.

                                                                           Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Although genetics and age influence hair colour and condition, a balanced diet abundant in melanin-enhancing nutrients can lead to a substantial impact. Integrating the foods and suggestions mentioned earlier into your daily routine will boost melanin production and support overall hair health. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods and embracing healthy practices can enhance your hair's natural beauty and resilience for many years ahead. 

FAQs

1. Can natural oils improve melanin in hair?

Oils like bhringraj, amla, and coconut may improve hair health and slow greying. They nourish the scalp, enhance blood circulation, and protect hair follicles, supporting melanin production and maintaining natural hair colour over time.

2. How does stress affect melanin in hair?

Chronic stress can accelerate melanin depletion by increasing oxidative stress in hair follicles. Stress hormones may damage melanocytes, leading to premature greying. Managing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation can help preserve melanin levels.

3. Can diet improve melanin in hair?

Yes, a nutrient-rich diet can support melanin production. Copper (found in nuts, seeds, and lentils), iron (in spinach and beets), and Vitamin B12 (in fish, eggs, and dairy) are essential. Antioxidants in amla, curry leaves, and fruits also protect melanocytes, promoting healthy pigmentation.

4. How does ageing impact melanin production?

Ageing reduces melanocyte activity, leading to decreased melanin production and grey hair. Genetics also play a role. While this process is natural, a healthy lifestyle and diet can slow the onset of greying.
 

References

• https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-increase-melanin-5324768
• https://www.kayakalpglobal.com/health/ways-to-naturally-boost-melanin-in-your-hair/
• https://traya.health/blogs/hair-care/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair?srsltid=AfmBOoqXH9ZWsu9Oy_xTLwwqz9EmFQRTc9sp5BLzzAi52hLAZX9Sv0co
• https://vedix.com/blogs/articles/how-to-increase-melanin
• https://bebodywise.com/blog/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair/
• https://scandinavianbiolabs.com/blogs/journal/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair

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