Why is lightning’s hair white?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Lightning’s hair turning white is a result of a phenomenon known as “poliosis.” Poliosis is a condition characterized by the loss of pigment in the hair follicles, leading to the growth of white or gray hair. In the case of Lightning, the lightning strike likely caused an intense electrical discharge that directly affected the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing pigment in the hair.

When a lightning bolt strikes an object, it carries an incredible amount of electrical energy. This energy can heat up the surrounding air to temperatures hotter than the surface of the sun and create a powerful shockwave. When Lightning was struck, the electrical current likely traveled through his body, including his head and hair follicles.

The intense electrical current passing through the hair follicles can damage or destroy the melanocytes, which are responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. When the melanocytes are damaged, they may either stop producing melanin altogether or produce significantly less of it. As a result, the affected hair follicles grow white or gray hair.

It’s important to note that poliosis can also occur due to other factors, such as genetics or autoimmune conditions. However, in Lightning’s case, the direct electrical discharge from the lightning strike is the most likely cause of his hair turning white.

Experiencing a lightning strike is an extremely rare and dangerous event. Survivors of such strikes often suffer from various injuries, including burns, neurological damage, and even cardiac arrest. Lightning can cause damage to internal organs, disrupt nerve pathways, and lead to long-term complications. In Lightning’s case, the lightning strike not only caused his hair to turn white but also caused him to fall to the ground, potentially indicating the severity of the injuries he sustained.

Lightning’s hair turned white due to the intense electrical current from the lightning strike damaging or destroying the melanocytes responsible for producing hair pigment. This phenomenon, known as poliosis, can occur when the hair follicles are directly affected by the electrical discharge. Surviving a lightning strike is a remarkable feat, but it often comes with severe injuries and long-term consequences.