Uban (rambut beruban) is hair that has lost its colour because the pigment cells in the hair roots make less melanin. Most people get their first grey hairs in their 30s or 40s, and grey hair is usually called premature if it starts before about 25 in Asians. Genes are the main cause, but smoking, low vitamin B12, iron or vitamin D, thyroid disease and vitiligo are also linked. Grey hair usually does not turn black again, and no supplement, oil or shampoo has been proven to reverse it. Treating a cause may slow it, and hair dye can cover it safely if you do a strand test first. This guide explains the causes, when to see a doctor, and how to colour grey hair safely.
Apa itu uban?
Your hair gets its colour from melanin, a pigment made by cells in the hair follicles called melanocytes. The more melanin in your hair, the darker it is. As you get older, these cells make less melanin, and the hair grows in grey, white or silver. White hair has little or no melanin (Cleveland Clinic).
Hair does not change colour after it has grown out. It gets its colour before it leaves the scalp, so a grey hair grows in grey from the root (Cleveland Clinic). Grey hair can also feel different: it is often thicker, wirier or coarser (Cleveland Clinic), harder to style, more easily damaged by sunlight, and less able to hold hair dye (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024).
In women, greying usually starts along the hairline and the front of the head, while in men it often starts at the temples and sideburns (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024; Desai et al., 2024). Eyebrows, eyelashes and body hair can also turn grey (Cleveland Clinic).
Bila uban dikira awal?
Most people start getting grey hairs in their 30s or 40s, but this varies a lot. Some people go fully grey within 10 years of their first grey hair, while others never have a full head of grey hair (Cleveland Clinic). White people usually go grey earlier than people who are Asian, Hispanic or Black (Cleveland Clinic).
| Group | Grey hair is usually called premature if it starts |
|---|---|
| White people | Before age 20 |
| Asians | Before age 25 |
| Black people | Before age 30 |
Source: Desai et al., 2024. There is no single agreed age for Asians, so some doctors use different cut-offs (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). A few grey hairs in your 20s are common and are not a sign of illness on their own.
Punca uban awal
The exact cause of premature grey hair is not fully understood. It is thought to come from a mix of genes, damage to the pigment cells (oxidative stress) and lifestyle factors (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). Known and possible causes include:
1. Genes (keturunan)
Genes have the biggest influence on when and how fast you go grey (Cleveland Clinic). In one study of people with premature grey hair, nearly 40% had a family history of it (Cleveland Clinic). Twin studies suggest that up to 90% of the difference in greying between people may be due to genes, and researchers have found gene variants, such as one in the IRF4 gene, linked to grey hair (Desai et al., 2024).
2. Smoking
Smoking produces large amounts of harmful molecules (reactive oxygen species) that can damage pigment cells (Desai et al., 2024). In a study in Jordan of 207 adults, smokers were about two and a half times more likely to have grey hair before age 30 than non-smokers (Zayed et al., 2013). Smoking is also linked to hair loss (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024).
3. Low vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D or copper
Studies have found lower levels of vitamin B12, ferritin (stored iron), calcium, vitamin D and copper in some people with premature grey hair (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024; Desai et al., 2024). Cleveland Clinic notes that low vitamin B12 and iron are linked to premature greying. These are links found in small studies, not proof that the deficiency caused the grey hair, and the evidence for iron is mixed (Desai et al., 2024).
You may be more at risk of low vitamin B12 if you do not regularly eat meat, fish or dairy products, for example on a vegetarian or vegan diet without fortified foods; if you have had stomach surgery; or if you take medicines such as metformin or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for gastric problems (NHS). See our guides to vitamin B12, kurang darah (anaemia) and kekurangan vitamin D.
4. Thyroid disease
Several studies have linked autoimmune thyroid disease, especially an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), with premature grey hair (Desai et al., 2024). Thyroid hormones help the hair follicle make melanin, and people with an underactive thyroid are also more likely to have low vitamin B12 (Desai et al., 2024). See our guide to tiroid (thyroid problems).
5. Vitiligo and alopecia areata
In these autoimmune conditions, the immune system attacks the melanin-producing cells, which can cause grey or white hair (Cleveland Clinic). Vitiligo causes pale white patches on the skin and can turn the hair in the affected area white or grey, including on the scalp (NHS). A white patch of hair, or hair that turns white suddenly, can be a sign of vitiligo or alopecia areata (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). See our guides to sopak (vitiligo) and rambut gugur (hair loss).
6. Some medicines
Some medicines can affect hair colour, including some cancer treatments, oral retinoids for skin conditions, antimalarial medicines such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, and some epilepsy medicines (Cleveland Clinic; Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). Do not stop a prescribed medicine because of grey hair; talk to your doctor first.
7. Sunlight and other factors
Ultraviolet (UV) light can cause oxidative damage to the pigment cells in hair follicles (Desai et al., 2024). Researchers have also looked at alcohol, obesity and long-term illness (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). Some studies have suggested links between premature grey hair and heart disease or low bone density, but the results are mixed (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). Rarely, grey hair from a young age is part of an inherited syndrome (Desai et al., 2024).
Adakah stres menyebabkan uban?
Yes, stress can play a part. Stress can trigger changes in the pigment-producing cells of the hair and lead to grey hair, but it does not happen overnight; you might notice grey hairs growing in after a period of intense stress (Cleveland Clinic). Cleveland Clinic explains that the effect is linked to norepinephrine (noradrenaline), a hormone released in the body's "fight-or-flight" response.
A 2021 study of 14 people that measured colour along single hairs found that some grey hairs regained their colour, and in some people this happened at the same time as a stressful period ended (Rosenberg et al., 2021). This was seen only in some hairs, and the researchers suggest it may happen mainly in hairs that are close to the point of turning grey anyway. So managing stress is good for your health, but it is unlikely to bring back the colour of hair that has been grey for a long time.
Boleh ke uban jadi hitam semula?
Usually not. Once the pigment cells stop making melanin, they typically do not start again, especially when the greying is due to age (Cleveland Clinic). If grey hair is caused by a vitamin deficiency or another condition, treating it may stop or slow further greying, but you probably will not be able to reverse the grey you already have (Cleveland Clinic).
Reviews of the research say:
- no known medical treatment can reverse or prevent premature grey hair (Desai et al., 2024);
- multivitamins, minerals and antioxidants are often tried, but the evidence that they work is weak (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024);
- antioxidants in shampoos do not help, because they are diluted with water and stay on the scalp for too short a time (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024);
- a few medicines used for cancer or other serious conditions have occasionally been linked to hair regaining colour, but these are rare reports and not treatments for grey hair (Desai et al., 2024).
Drann does not recommend any supplement, oil, shampoo or "ubat uban" to turn grey hair black. If you have been told you have a vitamin deficiency, follow your doctor's treatment plan.
Cabut uban: betul ke tumbuh lebih banyak?
No. Plucking one grey hair will not make more grow in its place. Each hair follicle grows only one hair, so you will get one new grey hair back in the same place, and the hairs around it will only turn grey when their own pigment cells stop working (UAMS Health).
But plucking is still not a good idea. Repeated pulling can damage the hair follicle and lead to infection, scarring or bald patches. If you want to remove a grey hair, cut it off carefully instead (UAMS Health).
Bila perlu jumpa doktor
A few grey hairs are normal and do not need tests. But see a doctor or klinik kesihatan if you have:
- a white patch of hair, white hair that appeared suddenly, or pale white patches on your skin, which may be vitiligo (NHS; Poonia and Bhalla, 2024);
- patchy hair loss together with white hair, which may be alopecia areata (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024);
- signs of low vitamin B12 or anaemia, such as tiredness, shortness of breath, a sore red tongue, pins and needles or numbness (NHS);
- signs of an underactive thyroid, such as extreme tiredness, feeling cold, weight gain, constipation, dry hair or hair loss, or heavy or irregular periods (NHS);
- grey hair in a child, or a lot of grey hair at a young age together with other health problems.
The doctor will ask about your family history, diet, smoking and medicines. Although premature grey hair is mainly a cosmetic concern, some blood tests, such as a full blood count, ferritin, vitamin B12, vitamin D and thyroid tests, may help look for an underlying cause (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024; Desai et al., 2024).
Apa boleh buat untuk uban awal
You cannot stop grey hair that comes with age (Cleveland Clinic). But these steps can deal with causes that are within your control:
- Stop smoking. Smoking is linked to earlier grey hair (Zayed et al., 2013). Your klinik kesihatan can help you quit.
- Eat a balanced diet. Vitamin B12 is found in meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs and dairy products (Desai et al., 2024). If you are vegetarian or vegan, ask a doctor or dietitian how to get enough vitamin B12.
- Get a deficiency treated properly. If a blood test shows low vitamin B12, iron or vitamin D, follow your doctor's advice on treatment.
- Get thyroid problems treated. Treating the cause may slow further greying (Cleveland Clinic).
- Protect your hair from strong sun with a hat or umbrella. This has not been proven to prevent grey hair, but UV light can damage hair and pigment cells (Desai et al., 2024).
- Look after your stress levels with sleep, activity and support from people around you.
Grey hair can affect self-esteem and confidence (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024). Whether you cover it or keep it natural is your own choice.
Cara tutup uban dengan selamat
Hair dye is a common way to cover grey hair. Options include (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024; Desai et al., 2024):
| Type | How long it lasts | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent dye | Long-lasting; resists washing but may fade, and roots need touching up as hair grows | Gives full coverage of grey hair, but the ammonia and hydrogen peroxide can damage hair |
| Demi-permanent dye | Up to 20 to 25 washes | No ammonia; less damaging than permanent dye |
| Semi-permanent dye | About 6 to 10 washes (4 to 6 weeks) | Less damaging, but covers only a small amount of grey hair (under about 30%) |
| Temporary colour, root sprays and powders | Until the next wash | Suits a small amount of grey hair (under about 15%) at the roots or hairline |
| Henna (inai) and other plant dyes | Needs regular reapplication | Usually safe, but grey hair holds the colour less well and can turn orange with henna |
Do a strand test before every dye
Hair dye reactions are fairly common but usually mild. Many permanent and some semi-permanent dyes contain a chemical called PPD (paraphenylenediamine), which can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction (NHS). To lower the risk (NHS):
- test the dye on a strand of hair at least 48 hours before you use it, and follow the instructions on the pack;
- wear gloves, and do not leave the dye on longer than recommended;
- avoid products with PPD if you have reacted to hair dye before, or if you have ever had a black henna tattoo, because the paste used for these tattoos contains high levels of PPD;
- choose a non-permanent dye if you have reacted to a permanent dye before.
Symptoms of a reaction include stinging, burning, an itchy rash, soreness and blisters, and they can take up to 72 hours to appear. On brown skin, a rash may look darker brown, purple or grey (NHS). If you have a reaction, wash your hair and scalp with mild shampoo straight away and do not use the dye again. Call 999 or go to the emergency department if your lips, mouth, throat or tongue swell, or you have trouble breathing or swallowing (NHS).
Check that the product is notified with NPRA
Hair dyes are cosmetics. In Malaysia, a cosmetic product must be notified to the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) before it is sold, and each notified product has a notification number in the format NOT, followed by numbers, then the letter K (NPRA). Our guide to krim merkuri explains how to check a product with NPRA.
Dyeing your hair in pregnancy
Most research shows it is safe to dye your hair while pregnant, because you are exposed to only very low amounts of the chemicals, and the scalp does not absorb much. You might choose to wait until after the first 12 weeks. Always do a strand test, even with a dye you have used before, because hair can react differently in pregnancy; use a well-ventilated room, leave the dye on for the minimum time and rinse your scalp well. Highlights and semi-permanent pure vegetable dyes such as henna are lower-risk options (NHS).
If you have an itchy, flaky scalp, see our guide to kelemumur (dandruff) before colouring, and ask a pharmacist or hairdresser for advice.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Apa punca uban awal (what causes premature grey hair)?
Grey hair happens when the pigment cells (melanocytes) in your hair roots make less melanin. Genes play the biggest part: if your parents went grey early, you are more likely to as well (Cleveland Clinic). Other things linked to early grey hair include smoking, low levels of vitamin B12, iron or vitamin D, thyroid disease, vitiligo and alopecia areata, some medicines, and possibly stress (Cleveland Clinic; Desai et al., 2024). In many people, no single cause is found.
Umur berapa uban dikira awal (at what age is grey hair premature)?
Most people get their first grey hairs in their 30s or 40s (Cleveland Clinic). Grey hair is usually called premature if it starts before age 20 in white people, before 25 in Asians and before 30 in Black people (Desai et al., 2024), although there is no single agreed age for Asians (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024).
Boleh ke uban jadi hitam semula (can grey hair turn black again)?
Usually not. Once the pigment cells stop making melanin, they rarely start again, and age-related grey hair does not go back to its old colour (Cleveland Clinic). Treating a cause such as a vitamin deficiency may stop or slow further greying (Cleveland Clinic). A small study found that some individual grey hairs regained colour, sometimes when stress eased, but this is uncommon (Rosenberg et al., 2021). No medicine, supplement, oil or shampoo has been proven to reverse or prevent premature grey hair (Desai et al., 2024; Poonia and Bhalla, 2024).
Betul ke cabut uban akan tumbuh lebih banyak (does plucking grey hair make more grow)?
No. Each hair root grows only one hair, so plucking a grey hair will only bring back one new grey hair in the same place, and the hairs around it will not turn grey because of it (UAMS Health). But plucking is not recommended, because repeated pulling can damage the hair root and cause infection, scarring or bald patches; if you must remove a grey hair, cut it carefully instead (UAMS Health).
Kekurangan vitamin apa yang menyebabkan uban (which vitamin deficiency causes grey hair)?
Studies have linked premature grey hair with low vitamin B12, iron (ferritin), vitamin D, calcium and copper (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024; Desai et al., 2024). These studies show a link, not proof that the deficiency caused the grey hair. If you are worried, ask a doctor whether you need a blood test, and treat any deficiency on their advice instead of taking supplements on your own.
Adakah stres menyebabkan uban (does stress cause grey hair)?
Stress can trigger changes in the pigment cells of the hair and lead to grey hair, but not overnight: you may notice new grey hairs growing in after a period of intense stress (Cleveland Clinic). In a small study, some grey hairs regained their colour when stress eased (Rosenberg et al., 2021). Hair that suddenly turns white over a short time can also be a sign of alopecia areata or vitiligo, so see a doctor (Poonia and Bhalla, 2024).
Selamat ke warnakan uban semasa mengandung (is it safe to dye grey hair in pregnancy)?
Most research shows that it is safe to dye your hair while pregnant, because you are exposed to only very low amounts of the chemicals (NHS). You might choose to wait until after the first 12 weeks. Always do a strand test first, wear gloves, use a well-ventilated room, leave the dye on for the minimum time and rinse your scalp well. Highlights and a semi-permanent pure vegetable dye such as henna are lower-risk options (NHS).
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor. See a doctor if you have sudden white patches of hair or skin, or other symptoms that worry you.
References
- Gray hair — Cleveland Clinic
- What causes gray hair? — Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
- Desai DD, et al. Premature hair graying: a multifaceted phenomenon. Int J Dermatol. 2025;64(5):819-829
- Poonia K, Bhalla M. Premature graying of hair: a comprehensive review and recent insights. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2024;15(5):721-731
- Zayed AA, et al. Smokers' hair: does smoking cause premature hair graying? Indian Dermatol Online J. 2013;4(2):90-92
- Rosenberg AM, et al. Quantitative mapping of human hair greying and reversal in relation to life stress. eLife. 2021;10:e67437
- Does pulling one gray hair cause more to grow in its place? — UAMS Health
- Hair dye reactions — NHS
- Using hair dye in pregnancy: is it safe? — NHS
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia: symptoms — NHS
- Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia: causes — NHS
- Vitiligo — NHS
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) — NHS
- Guidelines for control of cosmetic products: cosmetic notification — National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA)
