Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that the graying of hair be reversed with lemon and coconut oil. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A Facebook post with the caption, “How to Reverse Gray Hair With Coconut Oil and Lemon Juice” shares a video on how to prepare a mixture of coconut oil and lemon juice which can reverse graying of hair.
Fact Check
Why does our hair turn grey?
Greying of hair is a natural phenomenon with age. Harvard Health states that the hair follicles produce less color with age, so when hair goes through its natural cycle of dying and being regenerated, it’s more likely to grow in the gray beginning after age 35. There is a major role of genetics in this process.
Additionally, there are multiple other medical conditions that can contribute to the early onset of greying of hair, popularly known as premature greying. The reasons include vitamin deficiency, thyroid disease, vitiligo, and alopecia.
Many people believe even stress contributes to greying of hair. However, there is very little scientific conclusive evidence for the same. Studies even suggest that under stress hair turns grey in mice. But whether the same phenomenon works on the human body is still not yet known.
Can the whitening of hair be reversed?
No. Despite multiple marketing claims by product makers, the greying of hair can never be reversed. Cosmetic coloring aside, once a hair follicle produces hair, the color is set and cannot be changed. The Harvard Blog states that If a single strand of hair starts out brown (or red or black or blond), it is never going to change its color (unless you color your hair).
Dr Reena Majithia, Consultant Dermatologist and cosmetologist further confirms, “Hair greying is primarily a result of the natural aging process, and it is influenced by genetic factors. It occurs when the pigment-producing cells in the hair follicles gradually decrease in activity. This reduction in pigment production leads to the appearance of grey or white hair.
Lemon and coconut oil may have certain beneficial properties for hair health, such as moisturizing and conditioning, but they cannot alter the underlying causes of greying. Lemon juice is acidic and may help remove excess oil and build-up from the scalp, while coconut oil can provide nourishment to the hair strands. However, neither of these ingredients has the ability to stimulate the production of melanin (the pigment responsible for hair color) or reverse the aging process.”
Dr. Swati Watwani, Dermatologist and Medical Director, Persianlily – Skin/Hair/Aesthetics/Ayurveda Clinic says, “Graying of hair starts when you are in your late 40s and early 50s. Premature graying of hair can start as early as in the 20s. So premature hair graying can be slowed down by finding out the cause and treating it accordingly. But it cannot be reversed completely.”
Can the graying of hair be reversed with lemon and coconut oil?
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that lemon and coconut oil can reverse the graying of hair. Graying of hair is primarily caused by the reduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color, due to natural aging and genetic factors. While some natural remedies and ingredients might promote hair health, they are unlikely to completely reverse the graying process.
Lemon and coconut oil are often suggested for hair health, but their ability to reverse graying is not well-substantiated. Coconut oil remains on the scalp to mask the cuticles and give an oily as well as heavy look to the hair. On the other hand, coconut oil can influence microbes on the scalp and their functions. This means excessive oiling can cause dandruff or produce sebum on the scalp to make hair look flat. In the same manner, if the oil is not properly washed out from the hair, it can cause severe damage to the scalp and strands.
Similarly, lemon contains citric acid and antioxidants, which could potentially help with scalp health, but there’s no scientific consensus on its ability to restore hair color. Even though lemon is a good source of Vitamin C and is an antioxidant, using lemon directly on the skin is not recommended as it is highly acidic and can change your skin’s pH. A component of lemon, limonin could be developed as a useful treatment for hair loss. But, the direct application can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and sun damage, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Dr. Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, comments on why the application of lemon should be avoided by stating, “Lemon is a vibrant source of Vitamin C and has antioxidant and anti-bacterial flavonoid properties which are great for the skin. Lemon juice is highly acidic, and the Vitamin C serums we use are not citric acid but the ascorbic acid version of the lemon juice, which is beneficial for the skin and is stabilized. When a person applies lemon directly, it disturbs the skin’s pH and makes it completely acidic. Hence, it must be avoided.”
People tend to believe in several home remedies such as putting oil through the nose can impact greying of hair, using tomatoes and coffee can turn grey hair into black, onion juice can reverse greying of hair, and so on. If you’re interested in addressing graying hair, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or medical professional. They can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific situation. Keep in mind that many factors contribute to hair health and appearance, including genetics, overall health, and lifestyle choices.
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