top of page

What Actually Happens To Your Hair As You Get Older

Writer:  Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand  M.D. Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand M.D.

Over time you may start to notice changes in your hair. Just like our skin as we mature and age hair changes.

GRAY HAIR


First, if you have grey hair you are not alone. Grey hair is common and has a large genetic component. It is not uncommon to see gray hairs in your later 20’s.

Graying hair is due to the loss of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes in the base of the hair follicles. When less melanocyte cells are present, the result is less pigment being made and transferred into the cortex of your hair, resulting in gray hair.

BROKEN and BRITTLE


With age and chemical procedures like bleach and hair color the strength of hair deceases as the amount of chemical bonding diminishes. With less bonds, the hair can be more easily traumatized and result in breakage. Make sure to protect your hair if you chemically process. Always use heat protectant if using heat styling tools. Less breakage will help gain length is you are trying to grown your hair longer.

THINNING HAIR

So do you feel like you have less hair?

This is because the hair diameter does decreases with time. Studies show a decrease in hair diameter with age.

Hair is thicker when young and then decreases steadily in size, beginning at approximately age 40. Pre-menopausal women have larger hair shaft diameters and therefore the appearance of thicker hair than post-menopausal women. DERM TIPS FOR YOUR HEALTHIEST HAIR If your hair is drier, more brittle, and less shiny its time to make some haircare changes.

  • Use a silk pillowcase

  • Swap your shampoo for a sulfate free shampoo

  • Use a deep conditioning mask at least once a week for your hair type

  • Never brush hair when wet (use a wide tooth comb )

  • Cooler showers can help maintain the natural oils on the scalp and hair, as routine hot showering dries the scalp and strips hair of its natural oils.

  • Add a hair nutraceutical for daily for 3-6 months to see a change

  • Try to space out your chemical and heat treatments

  • Bleach can weaken the hair leading to breaks and dry frizzy hair.

  • Keep your scalp protected from the sun: use a spray sunscreen for your scalp and wear a broad rimmed hat


Comments


© 2020 HoushmandMD Dermatology

Follow us for more updates

Contact us for more information

Thanks for submitting!

youtube-Channel_Icon___Icon Only-01.jpg

Disclaimer: This site only provides information about dermatology and this information is not meant to be taken as medical advice. For more information about dermatology, contact Dr. Houshmand

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
bottom of page