How To Increase Melanin In Hair? Discover 6 Tips to Restore Melanin and Reverse Premature Greying!

Melanin is the pigment that determines the colour of our skin, eyes, and hair. It is essential for safeguarding our hair from harm and preserving its natural hue. Eumelanin is responsible for black and brown hair. 

As we grow older, the production of melanin diminishes, resulting in grey hair. Genetics, ageing, lifestyle, and environmental factors influence melanin production. If you want to naturally enhance melanin levels in your hair, this blog will offer practical techniques that you can incorporate into your lifestyle. 

Table Of Contents

1. How Can I Increase Melanin Naturally? 6 Tips 

2. Which Oil Increases Melanin In Hair?

3. Dietitian's Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

How Can I Increase Melanin Naturally? 6 Tips 

How to increase melanin for hair? Here are some tips and tricks you can adapt to increase melanin naturally:

1. Have A Nutrient-Rich Diet

Hair melanin synthesis can be increased by eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Foods that boost melanin production are:
 

• Copper-Rich Foods: Copper is essential for the creation of melanin. Include seafood, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dark leafy greens in your diet.
• Iron-Rich Foods: Iron helps oxygenate hair follicles, which supports melanin production. Eat spinach, lentils, red meat, and tofu.
• Vitamin B12: Deficiency in B12 can lead to premature greying. Include eggs, dairy products, fish, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin A And Beta-Carotene: Helps melanocytes function properly. Carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers are great sources.
• Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Blueberries, tomatoes, green tea, and citrus fruits help reduce oxidative stress, preserving melanin levels.
   

If your diet lacks essential nutrients, supplements can be beneficial. Supplements such as:

• Copper Supplements: Helps in melanin synthesis.
• Iron And Vitamin B12: Prevent premature greying.
• Folic Acid And Biotin: Support hair growth and pigmentation.

Also Read: What Vitamins Are Good For Hair Growth? Here’s What You Need To Know!

2. Take Herbs And Natural Remedies

Several herbs have been traditionally used to boost melanin levels in hair. 

These herbs and natural remedies are:
 

• Henna: Henna is a natural dye that enhances hair colour while nourishing the scalp. Regular application can improve melanin retention.
• Bhringraj (False Daisy): Bhringraj is a powerful herb known to darken hair and stimulate melanocytes. You can use it as an oil or herbal tea.
• Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is high in vitamin C content and is rich in antioxidants that promote melanin production. Consuming amla juice or applying amla oil can improve hair pigmentation.
• Black Sesame Seeds: These seeds contain essential nutrients like copper and iron, which aid in melanin production. Eating a handful daily can help restore natural hair colour.
• Ginseng: Ginseng improves blood circulation and supports melanocyte activity, enhancing melanin production in hair follicles.

Also Read: Indulge In The 19 Exceptionally Nutritious Foods For Hair Growth And DIY Hair Masks

3. Maintain A Proper Hair Care Routine

Using the right hair care techniques can prevent melanin loss and premature greying, so you must:
 

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Sulfates and parabens in shampoos can strip hair of natural oils and melanin.
• Use Natural Oils: Coconut oil, almond oil, and castor oil nourish hair and protect melanin levels.
• Gentle Hair Washing: Avoid excessive shampooing as it can lead to nutrient depletion.
• Massage Scalp Regularly: Massaging with essential oils like rosemary or peppermint can stimulate melanocytes.
   

4. Reduce Stress Levels 

High stress can affect various physiological processes, including melanin synthesis, so employ relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or hobbies to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being. 

5. Ensure Safe Sun Exposure

Melanin production increases with sun exposure, but to avoid sunburn and skin damage, limit sun exposure during peak hours and use sunscreen

6. Prioritise Quality Sleep 

Quality sleep regulates hormones like melatonin, which influences melanin production in hair follicles. Sufficient sleep also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, preventing damage to melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. 

Improved sleep promotes better blood circulation, delivering essential nutrients to the scalp. By supporting these processes, quality sleep can potentially delay premature greying.

Also Read: From Your Plate To Luscious Lengths: Here Are 17 Biotin-Rich Foods For Hair Growth And Its Wonderful Benefits

Which Oil Increases Melanin In Hair?

Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its natural colour. As we age, melanin production decreases, leading to greying hair. Some oils may help boost melanin production or slow down its loss by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants.

One of the best oils for increasing melanin in hair is Bhringraj oil (Eclipta alba). This oil has been used in Ayurveda for centuries and is believed to nourish hair follicles, improve blood circulation, and stimulate melanin production. It contains bioactive compounds that support melanin synthesis. Antioxidants and vitamin E, which are abundant in them, shield hair from oxidative stress, which is a primary cause of melanin loss. It also contains copper, a mineral essential for melanin production.

Almond oil and castor oil may also help by providing nutrients like omega fatty acids and vitamin B, which support overall hair health.

While these oils can slow down premature greying, genetics and ageing play a key role. Using these oils regularly, along with a nutrient-rich diet, can support melanin production and keep hair healthier for longer.

Also Read: Best Hair Care Routine Essentials With 7-Day Plan And Supplements!

Dietitian's Recommendation

To boost melanin for hair, focus on a nutrient-rich diet. Copper-rich foods like almonds, ToneOp Care’s Sesame Seeds, and dark chocolate help melanin production. Iron from spinach, lentils, and lean meats improves oxygen flow to hair follicles. Vitamin B12 in eggs, dairy, and fish prevents premature greying. Tyrosine, an amino acid in soy, bananas, and avocados, is essential for melanin synthesis.

Antioxidants from berries, green tea, and carrots protect melanin from damage. Stay hydrated and avoid processed foods, as oxidative stress can reduce melanin. A balanced, whole-food diet supports healthy hair pigmentation and slows down greying naturally.

                                                                     Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Increasing melanin production for hair naturally requires a combination of a nutritious diet, herbal remedies, a good hair care routine with fewer chemical products, and a healthy lifestyle. Even though genetics have a big influence on hair colour, these adjustments can help prevent premature greying and keep hair looking vibrant and healthy. 

FAQs

1. Can diet help increase melanin in hair?

Yes, eating copper-rich foods (almonds, sesame seeds), iron sources (spinach, lentils), and vitamin B12 foods (eggs, dairy) supports melanin production. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries and green tea also protect melanin from damage, slowing down greying.

2. Which vitamins are essential for melanin production?

Key vitamins include B12 (found in eggs, dairy, and fish), B6 (in bananas, potatoes, and poultry), E (from nuts and seeds), and C (from citrus fruits). These vitamins help produce melanin and protect hair from oxidative stress.

3. Does stress affect melanin production in hair?

Yes, stress increases cortisol levels, which can damage melanocytes, reducing melanin production and leading to premature greying. Managing stress through meditation, exercise, and good sleep can help maintain melanin levels.

4. Does too much sun exposure impact melanin in hair?

Yes, excessive UV exposure can damage hair follicles and deplete melanin, leading to premature greying. Wearing a hat and using UV-protective hair products can help preserve melanin.

References

• https://mamaearth.in/blog/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair/?srsltid=AfmBOorwBHVVNfXbkZQTLqsfH08hxKlOyC3I0nDuxzgwY_3-EhxTy919
• https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair
• https://traya.health/blogs/hair-care/how-to-increase-melanin-in-hair?srsltid=AfmBOopVoom5f2edrPrdIWtGIRC_rbwrA3k6567IxoO86biv34rnmosV
• https://www.parachuteadvansed.com/best-hair-oil-blogs/melanin-in-hair
• https://goodfeel.in/blogs/hair-care/melanin-benefits-for-hair-increase-production-maintain-color?srsltid=AfmBOooXf0tPQBIFn6uFFQ3V3J27HYBO9XSLH4QFcmh0mueJeoXC9wQW

About ToneOp Care 

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