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Gray hairs at the age of three is highly unusual, if not impossible. Hair gets its color from a chemical called melanocyte. Melanocytes are produced in the pigment cells at the root of hair. Depletion in melanocyte production causes hair to turn gray. Although graying process usually starts at old age, there can be various reasons causing premature graying of hair. Premature graying of hair may be due to genetic disorder, vitamin deficiency, anemia, or thyroid disorder. While genetic disorder and Vitamin B12 deficiency are found to be the most common causes of premature graying in children, pollution and chemicals may also lead to premature graying of hair. Be careful about choosing the soap and shampoo for children. Sometimes, unsuitable soap and shampoo might also cause harm to children's hair. Vitiligo, a medical condition, is another reason for getting premature grey hair. It is a chronic skin disease causing loss of pigment in the skin. If the child is having irregular pale patches on the skin, it can be a case of vitiligo.
However, it should be kept in mind that grey hair in children at such a young age may actually indicate some other internal ailments. It is, therefore, advisable to investigate this properly by consulting a pediatrician and asking for medical advice. Meanwhile, you can try some of the natural home remedies to treat premature graying of hair. Indian gooseberry (amla) is considered an effective home remedy for gray hairs. Make a concoction of amla powder with coconut oil and lemon extract and apply this on the scalp. Let it be for about half an hour before washing off with water. You can also make a paste of bay leaves and buttermilk and apply it on the scalp. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes and then wash off with lukewarm water. Another useful remedy is margosa (neem) oil. Apply this herbal oil on scalp and hair to prevent premature graying.
A planned diet can also help fight premature graying of hair. Make the child eat healthy and nourishing food. Include the following items in the meals - leafy vegetables, oranges, and yellow fruits (source of Vitamin A); tomatoes, cauliflowers, cereals, and bananas (source of Vitamin B); meat, eggs, seafood, and whole grains (source of minerals); and protein-rich foods like cereals and soy. If vitamin deficiency or malnourishment is the reason for gray hairs in the child, a diet of these foods should bring back the balance.
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