Causes of browning of fur

Causes of browning of fur

Tear stains are most often caused by dye molecules called porphyrins. Porphyrins are iron-containing molecules that are formed when the body breaks down red blood cells. Porphyrins are primarily excreted in the bile and intestinal tract, but large amounts of porphyrin are excreted in dogs' tears, saliva, and urine.

Formation and release of porphyrins

When porphyrin, which is found in tears or saliva, sits on white fur for a while, it forms stains. These iron-related stains intensify/darken in sunlight.

Symptoms and intensity of browning of the coat

All dogs produce porphyrin, but of course, porphyrin staining is most noticeable in light-colored dogs. If you've ever noticed a white dog licking or chewing on a leg, the hair in that area will also turn an iron brown color.

Brightworks normalizes the production of porphyrins, therefore addressing the real cause of the problem, unlike topical use.