B2 – Upper Intermediate
One of the many changes that occur to our bodies as we age is the graying of our hair. It has long been assumed that this results from a reduction in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Recent studies, however, claimed that the build-up of “stuck” cells in hair follicles may actually be the root of the grey hair problem.
According to research, these old cells don’t always get pushed out of the hair follicle as they ought to be. Instead, they “stick” in the follicle and can then cause issues.
So, what can be done to prevent or reverse the greying of hair?
Gain further knowledge on the reason behind grey hair by reading the full text.
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-65309374
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “coming out of the other side” mean in the sentence, “Post-lockdown, there is a feeling of liberty – many got into a grey hair rut because they couldn’t see their colourists, but came out of the other side and actually enjoyed the change.”? Use it in a sentence.
- What does “stuck in limbo” mean, “New ones are made from stem cells and it’s these cells that the researchers believe become “stuck” in limbo in people whose hair has turned grey.”? Use this phrase in your own sentence.
- What does “fully-fledged” mean in the sentence, “The stem cells stop roaming around the follicle and become fixed, thereby failing to mature into fully-fledged melanocytes.”? Give 2 synonyms for this word and use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- How does the accumulation of ‘stuck’ cells in hair follicles contribute to other hair-related problems, such as inflammation and scarring?
- Are there any medications or treatments that can reverse the greying of hair? Share some procedures that you know of.
- What are some steps that people can take to keep their hair looking healthy and vibrant as they age?
- Can certain vitamins and minerals prevent or reverse the greying of hair, and if so, which ones?
- How might a better understanding of the cause of grey hair help to develop new treatments for hair loss and other related conditions?