Why has my beard become patchy with white hairs at the age of 27?

Question

I’ve noticed that my beard in the last two months has become patchy with white hairs appearing on my beard that I’ve never had before. I’m 27 years old. Also noticed that the beard has stopped growing. I’ve noticed that hair on my head also during this time has stopped growing and I am having some hair loss. Is this due to stress? Or what it could possible be ?

Serkan Aygin, MD · Answer

White beard is caused due to the lack of melanin pigmentation. The causes for premature graying can be outlined as:
-Genetics
-Unhealthy diet
-Excessive alcohol intake & smoking
-Deficiency of vitamins, copper, iodine and minerals. You need sufficient Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is required for melanin production.
-Excessive amounts of stress 
Make sure that you keep your body healthy and eat foods rich in Vitamins & minerals. If you are graying prematurely, and it doesn't run in your family, or if you have a sudden change in hair color or excessive hair loss, discuss your symptoms and concerns with your doctor.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Although normal aging and genetics are important to consider here, so is alopecia areata. See a dermatologist.

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

The patchy appearance of white hair is genetic and it often starts as patchy white islands. You can expect that it will probably continue

Why has my beard become patchy with white hairs at the age of 27?

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