The health of your hair as you age. Does aging affect hair strength and density?

We all understand that aging has an impact on our facial features. Wrinkles start appearing, physical strength gradually diminishes, and this process affects other vital systems in our bodies as well.

However, you might not realize that aging also significantly affects the strength and health of your hair. This includes the appearance of gray hair and white strands, as the hair's life cycle weakens, leading to a loss of its natural thickness and strength. This makes you more susceptible to hair loss issues. In this article, we'll explore the key changes that occur in your hair as you age and provide some tips to help you protect it and reduce the signs of aging, ensuring it remains strong and vibrant for as long as possible.

Does aging affect the health of your hair?

As you age, gradual changes become apparent in your hair. These changes may initially go unnoticed but will become more evident over time. One of the most noticeable changes is in the texture of your hair. It becomes finer and more fragile. In some cases, this can progress to hair loss, beginning at the hairline and later becoming more noticeable on the crown of the head. Color changes in the hair and a loss of vibrancy are also common signs of hair health issues associated with aging. It's essential to note that these changes are not universal and can vary from person to person, depending on their environment and lifestyle.

What factors contribute to changes in hair texture as you age?

As you age, various factors can significantly impact the health of your hair, causing changes in its density, texture, and thickness. Some of these factors include:

• Genetic factors: In some families, these changes occur earlier due to specific genes that play a significant role in their appearance.
• Digestive health: Poor digestive health, such as irritable bowel syndrome, can contribute to changes in hair texture over time.
• Smoking: Smoking is a major factor in premature graying of hair. Quitting smoking or avoiding it can reduce the risk of early graying.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Studies suggest that a deficiency in vitamin B12 and thyroid gland issues can increase the chances of premature graying.
• Stress hormones: Stress hormones like cortisol can target hair follicles, causing damage and leading to hair loss with age. In some cases, women may experience issues such as menopause or thyroid problems, which can result in dry hair, making it prone to breakage and split ends.
  

Environmental factors also play a role in affecting the health of your hair, causing damage to its structure and texture. This can lead to a loss of hair shine, resilience, and strength that it once had. These environmental factors include:

• UV Radiation: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can have a detrimental effect on your hair.
• Humidity: High humidity levels can lead to frizz and damage to your hair.
• Wind Effects on Hair: Wind can make your hair more prone to tangling and breakage.
  

In addition, the chemicals in hair care products and treatments can affect the growth and texture of your hair. Over time, these products can cause damage to hair fibers, making it more susceptible to breakage. It's important to note that as you age, your hair becomes less resistant to these chemical substances, leading to quicker damage than usual.

What are the main expected changes in hair texture with age?

1. Decreased Hair Density:

It's natural to lose between 50 to 100 hairs per day as your body continually sheds old hair to make way for new growth. However, as you age, the hair's life cycle can disrupt, leading to some follicles ceasing to produce new hair. This can result in decreased hair density, causing the hair to appear thinner. Hair density typically peaks around age 35 and begins to decrease afterward.

2. Appearance of Gray Hair:

As you age, your hair may turn gray. Aging is the primary cause of gray hair and the appearance of white strands. This is mainly due to a reduction in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the hair's vibrant color. As you age, hair cells stop producing melanin, causing the color to fade and the hair to turn white. Initially, gray strands may appear in specific areas, but over time, white hair becomes more prominent throughout. Some individuals choose to dye their hair, wear wigs, or use natural hair extensions to manage this change.

3. Weakening and Thinning Hair Follicles: 

With age, you might notice that the thickness of your hair decreases significantly. Thinner hair can result in the loss of the hair's natural resilience and strength, making it more susceptible to breakage and hair loss.

4. Loss of Hair Luster: 

As you age, another issue that arises is the reduced production of natural oils that ensure scalp hydration and preserve the health of your hair. This can lead to hair tangling and a significant loss of its shine and softness.

How can you prevent the effects of aging on your hair?

In reality, changes in hair texture naturally occur as a person ages, and it's an inevitable process. However, when it comes to hair loss and decreased density, there are medications that can be used to reduce the likelihood of hair loss. The FDA has approved the use of minoxidil and finasteride as treatments for hair loss. Additionally, anyone can protect their hair from environmental factors without resorting to medications. Here are some ways to do that:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Follow a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients for hair health.
• Protect your hair from high humidity and wind.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals found in hair products.
• Be cautious about chemical treatments for your hair.
• Use the recommended amount of shampoo when washing your hair, and avoid overwashing.
• Moisturize your hair when washing with shampoo and ensure regular weekly hair conditioning.
  

To minimize the chances of having damaged or unhealthy hair, focus on proper hair care and avoid harmful habits that can negatively impact your hair's health over time.

In summary, aging is a natural and inevitable process, and the changes that occur in your hair with time are part of a life stage. The good news is that you can reduce and delay these changes by adopting a healthy lifestyle and providing proper care to maintain the health of your hair for as long as possible. Even as these changes become more noticeable, it's essential to adapt and embrace them as a part of our life journey.