As a subject matter expert in psychology with a focus on stress and its physiological effects, I can provide an informed response to your question.

Trauma can indeed have a variety of physiological effects on the body, including changes in hair color. The process of hair turning white, known as canities, is primarily caused by the depletion of melanocytes—the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin, which gives hair its color. While the exact mechanism by which trauma might cause hair to turn white is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to the stress response.

When a person experiences a traumatic event, their body goes through a complex stress response involving the release of stress hormones such as cortisol.
High levels of cortisol can potentially impact the functionality of melanocytes, leading to a decrease in melanin production and, consequently, the graying or whitening of hair. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "stress-induced canities."

However, it's important to note that not everyone who experiences trauma will have their hair turn white, and the relationship between trauma and hair color change is still a subject of ongoing research. There are also genetic and other environmental factors that can contribute to the natural process of hair graying.

In summary, while trauma can potentially lead to hair turning white due to the stress response and its impact on melanocyte function, it is not a guaranteed outcome for all individuals.

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There is no scientific evidence that hair can turn white overnight due to some traumatic experience. However, legend has it that both Thomas More and Marie Antoinette suffered a hair colour change to white the night before their executions.read more >>