Can melanin come back from hair follicles?

Question

Hi, I've had a deep chemical burn on my chest that left me with a big, hypertrophic and hypopigmented scar. Until now (4 months post an accident) my skin appeared raised and shiny and there were no hair visible in the area. Today I've noticed some tiny hair growing back and I wonder- does it mean the pigment will follow? I know some melanin is produced in the hair follicle and I wonder if regaining the hair means the scar will repigment soon. Thank you

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its color. As we age, the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce melanin in our hair follicles, can slow down or stop producing melanin. This leads to hair becoming gray or white.
Currently, there is no scientifically proven method to reactivate melanocytes and restore melanin production in hair follicles once it has stopped. This process is largely believed to be genetic and a natural part of aging.
However, research is ongoing, and some studies suggest certain nutrients and compounds may potentially support melanin production. These include vitamins like B12, D, E, and minerals like copper and zinc. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

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