WHY HAS MY HAIR CHANGED OVER TIME? DERMATOLOGIST Dr. HOUSHMAND DISCUSSES
- Elizabeth Bahar Houshmand M.D.
- May 9, 2021
- 2 min read
Over time you may start to notice changes in your hair. Just like our skin as we mature and age hair changes. Here are some of the most common hair changes. FRIZZY HAIR Hair often becomes “frizzier" with age. Many researchers suspect that this is due to the loss of synchronization, or timing of hairs, as they grow out together and produce curls and waves. The curve of the hair is determined by the amount of chemical bonding within the strands. If hair growth stops being synchronized, the production of waves or curl becomes incomplete and this results in frizzy hair strands. GRAY HAIR
Graying 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 outer shell (cortex) of your hair shaft, resulting in gray hair.
It is not uncommon to see gray hairs in your later 20’s. You are not alone and the onset of grey hairs generally are genetic. BROKEN and BRITTLE With age and chemical processing like bleach and hair color the strength of hair decreases 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.
THINNING HAIR So do you feel like you have less hair? This is because the hair diameter decreases with time. Numerous studies have shown a decrease in hair diameter with age. Hair is generally larger and thicker when young and then decreases in size, beginning around age 40.
Pre-menopausal women have larger hair shaft diameters (thicker hair) than post-menopausal women. How to help your aging hair?
So know we know all the ages over time, but what steps can you take now Because the hair is often drier, more brittle, and less shiny with age, you can adjust your hair care routine.
Here are some of my tips:
Use wider tooth combs to not damage delicate hair.
Never brush your hair when wet
Use a silk pillow case
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.
Conditioning may be more important to add back additional protein barriers to protect the hair shaft.
Use a deep conditioning mask at least once a week
Try to use sulfate free shampoo
Add a hair nutraceutical for daily use
Avoidance of chemical and heat should always be emphasized, as this can cause hairs to weaken and subsequently crack, break, and cause more dryness and frizz.
If you color treat or bleach your hair try to decrease the frequency
Keep your scalp protected from the sun: use a spray sunscreen for your scalp and use a broad rimmed hat
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