The Impact of Aging on Hair: Changes in Color and Texture, along with Available Remedies
In the natural course of aging, our hair undergoes various changes, some of which are visible and others less so. These changes are primarily due to structural alterations in hair follicles, hormonal fluctuations, and nutritional factors.
For instance, the average density of head hair in those of African descent is less than that of white people and those of Asian descent. This difference is a result of genetic factors that influence the number and size of hair follicles. As people grow older, their hair can become more weathered, appearing less shiny, elastic, or strong. Environmental factors such as UV light, humidity, wind, chemicals in hair products, and chemicals in hair treatments can damage hair and contribute to changes in texture and thickness.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several treatments for hair loss. These include minoxidil, finasteride, and the HairMax LaserComb. However, a preventive approach is often more effective. Minimizing damage by avoiding excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments is crucial. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in hair-supportive nutrients, such as iron, biotin, and vitamin D, is also essential.
As we age, our bodies undergo hormonal changes. For women, declines in estrogen during menopause can cause hair thinning, increased coarseness, or altered curl patterns. For men, andropause, or the decline in testosterone levels, can also lead to hair loss. Treating these causes with vitamin and hormone replacement therapy can help address premature graying hair and hair loss.
For coily hair, washing hair once a week or every other week, using conditioner, hot oil treatments, using heat products with caution, using hair relaxers with caution, using ceramic combs or irons for hair pressing, ensuring braids, cornrows, and weaves are not too tight, and avoiding heat damage are all practices that can help care for coily hair.
It's important to note that preventing changes to hair texture and thickness as a person ages is difficult due to the natural aging process. A person's hair density often peaks at around 20-30 years of age and begins to decline thereafter. Vitamin B12 deficiencies and hypothyroidism may increase a person's chances of having graying hair.
Addressing age-related hair changes requires a multifactorial approach targeting follicle health, hormonal balance, nutrition, and external hair care practices. Regular scalp care to improve circulation and reduce buildup can also promote healthier follicle activity. Treatment options for thinning or changed texture involve topical minoxidil, hormone replacement therapy (for menopausal women), and addressing underlying health issues such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases.
In conclusion, understanding the factors that contribute to age-related hair changes is the first step towards maintaining healthy hair as we age. A combination of preventive measures, treatments, and lifestyle changes can help mitigate these changes and promote healthier, more resilient hair.
- The changes in our hair as we age, including hair loss, are primarily due to structural alterations in hair follicles, hormonal fluctuations, and nutritional factors.
- The average density of head hair in those of African descent is less than that of white people and those of Asian descent, a result of genetic factors that influence the number and size of hair follicles.
- Environmental factors such as UV light, humidity, wind, chemicals in hair products, and chemicals in hair treatments can damage hair and contribute to changes in texture and thickness.
- For women, declines in estrogen during menopause can cause hair thinning, increased coarseness, or altered curl patterns, while for men, andropause, or the decline in testosterone levels, can also lead to hair loss.
- A balanced diet rich in hair-supportive nutrients, such as iron, biotin, and vitamin D, is essential to maintain healthy hair as we age.
- In coily hair, washing hair once a week or every other week, using conditioner, hot oil treatments, using heat products with caution, using hair relaxers with caution, using ceramic combs or irons for hair pressing, ensuring braids, cornrows, and weaves are not too tight, and avoiding heat damage can help care for coily hair.
