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Q:	My cousin is growing white hair and I think it's getting worse. He's only 15. He says it's from stress. Is it true it's from stress or is it something else?
A:	We do not know why people get white hair. It is associated with aging of course, but some people may become “prematurely” gray in young adulthood without any other signs of aging. Several harmless dermatological conditions can cause white hair to grow, including albinism, vitiligo, hair regrowing in areas of alopecia areata, and some congenital conditions. Getting white hair is not the result of stress. This is a myth or "old wife’s tale" perhaps perpetuated by ancient literature. So getting white hair is from something else. If your cousin is concerned (about the white hair or the degree of stress he’s under), he might what to discuss this with his doctor. For more information, check out this article: The Hairy Truth About Hair Loss Posted 3-13-01 Do you have a question? As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full .