To Pluck or Not to Pluck: Will Pulling One White Hair Make More Sprout?

Imagine you are getting ready for a night out and suddenly spot a white hair in your reflection. For some, this might spark a concern about their appearance, while some may feel this is a natural part of ageing. Before you reach for the tweezers, though, here's a crucial point to consider: plucking isn't the answer. Removing white hair can lead to issues like follicle infections, swelling, pain, and even hair loss. So, let’s explore why you might want to think twice before plucking those white strands and discover some smarter ways to manage them.

A hair follicle is like a small, natural factory that produces your hair. Inside this tiny, tube-like pocket, cells work together to create the hair strand, and it is connected to blood vessels that provide nutrients. The fact is, plucking white hair does not result in additional white strands. As each hair follicle grows independently, plucking out one hair does not affect the growth of others. However, frequent plucking can irritate hair follicles and create an open space for the entry of intruders like bacteria, leading to the malfunctioning of this factory in the form of pain, swelling, or permanent hair loss; normal hair growth patterns may be disrupted. This can also result in hyperpigmentation, making the issue more noticeable. Understanding the drawbacks of plucking hair can help you make better decisions about managing white hair.

Melanocytes are unique cells within the hair follicle responsible for adding colour to your hair. These pigment cells continuously infuse each growing strand with colour, making your natural hair colour unique. Over time, however, these pigment-producing cells begin to wear out as part of the natural ageing process, gradually becoming less effective. When a hair follicle loses all its functioning melanocytes, it can no longer produce pigment, and the next hair that grows appears white.

While this colour change is a normal part of ageing, white hair can also appear in younger people. Factors such as stress, poor nutrition, genetics, and excessive sun exposure may speed up the process, influencing the early arrival of white strands.

Former Miss Universe, Lara Dutta, recently shared a selfie on Instagram showing off her white hair. She opened up about accepting these natural changes, saying, “I’m starting to see a few white hairs, but honestly, it’s not bothering me as much as I thought it would!” Her easygoing attitude shows that embracing white hair can be a positive experience, and her confidence is a great reminder that ageing is a natural part of life. 

Dr Priyanka Reddy, MD, Dermatologist, Bengaluru, says, “If white hair bothers you, consider trimming it with scissors instead of plucking.” Or, if you prefer, explore various dye options to blend white hair seamlessly into your hair care routine.

Plucking white hair might seem like a quick solution, but it can damage hair follicles. Instead, opt for trimming or dyeing. Embrace the change; accepting white hair as a natural process can be empowering. Whether you choose to style it proudly or use dye, embracing your white hair can be both chic and positive.

Stress may accelerate the appearance of white hair by generating free radicals. Free radicals can damage pigment-producing melanocytes.

The answer is no. However, a balanced diet containing vitamins and minerals, along with a healthy lifestyle, can help maintain overall hair health and potentially delay the process.

Although occasional use of hair dyes is generally considered safe, frequent use can damage hair. Consult a professional before using a hair dye. Several dyes containing PPDA (the main colouring agent) can cause skin allergies.

White hair results from a decline in melanin production by melanin-producing cells in the hair follicle. Once these cells stop producing melanin, the hair's colour cannot be reversed.

Yes, there is a chance that the new hair will grow back differently if you remove your white hair. When a strand of hair is plucked, a type of trauma is caused to the follicle, and this can result in the regrowth of hair that is weaker and thinner.