If you read my earlier post, you may already have known that it is possible for gray hair to return to its original color. A recent article in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine documented a case where treatment with an unrelated medication apparently induced re-pigmentation of gray hair in a middle-aged man.

According to the article, “a 51-year-old man with leukemia visited the oncology clinic for routine follow-up. Treatment with nilotinib had been initiated 18 months earlier. During that time, the patient had noticed, much to his delight, the gradual re-pigmentation of his gray hair to its original color. During the same period, he had not started any other new medications and had used no hair-coloring products. On physical examination, his previously gray hair was noted to have become brown. No other changes in his hair, skin, or mucosal pigmentation were observed. Molecular testing showed a deep molecular response. A diagnosis of medication-induced hair re-pigmentation due to the use of nilotinib was made. Given the response of the leukemia to treatment with nilotinib, it was continued, and the patient’s hair remained brown.”

While I wouldn’t recommend rushing out and taking cancer medication, this case says a couple of things to me. First, it is possible to reverse one of the most visible signs of aging. And, if it is possible with one medication, it should be possible through other means as well. I, for one, believe that an intentionally reduced-stress lifestyle has halted the graying process for myself. Second, if the mechanism of action for this drug can be determined, it may be possible to develop more targeted medications in the future.

Going gray is almost synonymous with aging. Imagine getting older without gray hair. Believing that it is possible is the first step.