4 Signs of Aging Hair and How to Fix Them

As we become older, all parts of our bodies change over time. Hair is no exception, and while the majority of anti-aging products and remedies tend to focus on the skin, our hair is equally at risk of those telltale signs of aging.

The good news is that there are a number of ways to deal with this so that you can keep your locks healthy, voluminous, and shiny no matter your age.

Here are four of the most common signs of aging hair and what you can do to lessen its impact.

Hair Loss and Thinning

Hair loss and thinning come with advanced age and affect both men and women. Hormonal changes as you grow older can cause this, and so can the reduction in follicle size over time.

Solution: Fortunately, there are many natural and chemical methods of preventing hair loss (for an in-depth look, check it out here). From changing your diet to topical treatments and medications, there are many ways to help lessen the impact of thinning and balding.

You may also consider styling out your thinner locks. By opting for a shorter style with fewer layers, you can give the illusion of thicker hair. Meanwhile, styles with lots of fine, wispy layers tend to accentuate the problem.

Color Changes

Those troublesome grays are one of the most noticeable and well-known signs of aging hair. Usually appearing in a person’s late 30s to 40s, gray hairs are caused by a lack of pigment production in older hair follicles.

Solution: While gray hair cannot be ‘cured,’ you can easily cover it up with a high-quality hair dye. For a less dramatic change, consider blending your grays into your normal color with highlights. It’s becoming more and more trendy to embrace gray, and you can purchase a number of tone-enhancing products to let your natural silver shine through!

Loss of Elasticity

As you age, your hair loses some of its natural elasticity. This can cause it to become brittle and coarse. Many years of styling and chemical exposure also change its texture. Dyes, bleaches, and heated styling appliances can take their toll, leaving you with tresses that are dry, brittle, and easily break.

Solution: Remedy this common sign of aging locks by using fewer chemicals and opting for products and treatments that are rich in protein. You may also consider using vitamins to restore some of your hair’s strength. Do note that the effects of taking vitamins can take up to six months to show, so you’ll need to be patient with this approach! A healthy diet with plenty of protein will also help you maintain healthy, bouncy tresses.

Dullness

Hair can become dull over time due to the stress it experiences over time. Environmental factors such as product build-up, sun exposure, smoking, and hormone imbalances can all lead to losing that healthy shine. Further, older hair is often more coarse or gray, which doesn’t reflect light as well as younger, softer hair.

Solution: To prevent dullness, use a good clarifying shampoo every couple of weeks. This will remove any product build-up and allow nutrients to reach the follicle. Follow by applying a light, hydrating conditioner and enriching your hair with nourishing oils that include vitamin E for clarity and shine.

Bottom Line

While your hair will undoubtedly change as you grow older, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your locks looking as young and healthy as possible. Use these helpful tips to keep your hair in great condition!