Hair Health 101: Maintain A Lush Mane As You Mature

Many people forget that as we age, our needs change and our hair health is no exception to the rule.

January 31, 2025

hair care, fuller hair, hair, hair health, — Different shades of hair color

Many people forget that as we age, our needs change and our hair health is no exception to the rule. As we age, our hair growth slows down, hair strands become smaller in diameter making our hair appear finer and thinner. Our hair texture can become drier, coarser, and frizzier, our hair can become weaker and more susceptible to breakage and damage. Eventually, our hair can turn gray as our bodies stop producing the melanocytes that give our hair its color.

Hair loss is another problem people can struggle with as they age. During our 30s and 40s hair loss can become more noticeable. Close to 40% of men will have visible hair loss by the age of 40, and by the age of 50, approximately 50% of men will have significant hair loss. Women are not safe from hair loss either, however, it is generally less pronounced.

Nutrients for hair health

Foods that support hair health include eggs, avocados, sweet potatoes, spinach, salmon, bell peppers, Greek yogurt, oysters, berries, leafy greens, carrots, pumpkin seeds, and nuts. These foods contain nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals that help nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote healthy growth.

Supporting hair health

Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and fruits and vegetables containing vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, as well as zinc, iron, biotin, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
High-stress levels can contribute to hair loss, so practice relaxation techniques.
Deep conditioning treatments once a week can help to add moisture and strength to your hair strands.
Stimulate blood circulation to the scalp by regularly massaging it with your fingers.
Limit the use of hot styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons, and always use a heat protectant spray.
Get your hair trimmed regularly to remove split ends that can weaken the hair shaft.
Look for shampoos and conditioners that are formulated to strengthen hair and consider using hair masks or serums with nourishing ingredients.
Wash your hair less often, over-shampooing can cause build-up and strip the natural oils from your scalp and hair.
Brush your hair to remove tangles before washing to help prevent breakage.
When your hair is wet it is more vulnerable to breakage, the best time to brush your hair is when it is almost or completely dry. However, those with curly hair can create more damage when dry brushing.
Rubbing your hair with a towel when wet creates tangles and creates breakage.
Although it is fun to change hair color it damages your hair. Use a hair mask to repair and strengthen your hair and allow it time to recuperate.
Showering with hot water can damage hair cuticles and roots. Try using lukewarm water, especially when washing your hair, and finish off with a cold rinse to help cuticles retain moisture and shine.
Coconut and avocado hot oil treatments help moisturize and repair damaged hair, regular treatments promote hair health.

Scalp Health

Hair root strength directly impacts hair health, the rate and quality of hair growth, which is rooted in the scalp. Meaning, don’t forget about your scalp health. Dry skin on the scalp from oxidative stress and damage can result in poor hair quality and fewer hair follicles.

A moisturizing mask with aloe vera which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that can help to nourish the scalp to promote a healthy environment for hair growth.
Massaging your scalp with essential oils such as thyme, rosemary, lavender, or peppermint can also help provide nourishment to support hair growth.
Herbal hair products often contain ingredients such as ginseng, fenugreek, aloe vera, amla, and hibiscus to help nourish the scalp, improve blood circulation, and promote healthy hair growth.

Take Away

Although you can’t change some hair health or hair loss factors, you can support healthy hair as you age by eating a healthy, balanced diet that’s rich in protein, iron, folate, and antioxidants, reducing your stress levels, quitting smoking, staying hydrated, washing your hair less frequently, choosing the right shampoo and conditioner, using a hair volumizer, getting regular hair trims, using anti-aging hair treatments, avoiding chemical treatments, and avoiding using too much heat when styling your hair. Additionally, regular scalp massages can help to stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles.

As with anything you read on the internet, this hair health article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This hair health article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

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References/Sources/Materials provided by:

TJW at the WHN News Desk

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7869811

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