What Really Happens to Our Hair as We Age?

Hair is an essential part of our identity and self-expression. As we age, our hair goes through various changes, which may include thinning, graying, and loss of luster. These transformations are natural and influenced by several factors. In this blog, we will explore what really happens to our hair as we age, backed by scientific research, and understand the underlying processes that contribute to these changes. By shedding light on this topic, we hope to gain a better understanding of hair aging and how to care for our hair as we grow older.

Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle

Before delving into the aging process, let's first understand the hair growth cycle. Our hair goes through three phases:

1.Anagen Phase: This is the active growth phase where hair follicles produce new hair strands. It can last for several years, and the length of this phase determines the length of our hair.

2. Catagen Phase: In this transitional phase, the hair follicle shrinks, and hair growth stops.

3. Telogen Phase: This is the resting phase where the hair follicle remains inactive. After a few months, old hairs shed, and new hairs start to grow, leading to the start of a new hair growth cycle.

Thinning and Hair Loss

As we age, changes in the hair growth cycle can lead to thinning and hair loss. Here's what happens:

1. Reduced Anagen Phase: The length of the anagen phase shortens with age. As a result, hairs spend more time in the resting (telogen) phase and eventually shed, leading to thinning hair.

2. Hair Follicle Miniaturization: With age, hair follicles can shrink and produce finer, thinner hairs during each hair growth cycle. This miniaturization contributes to hair thinning and loss of volume.

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in estrogen and progesterone in women during menopause, can also impact hair growth. Androgen hormones can play a role in hair loss, especially in men.

Graying of Hair

Graying of hair is a natural part of aging and occurs when the hair follicles produce less melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. Here's what happens:

1. Melanocyte Activity Decline: Melanocytes are cells responsible for producing melanin. As we age, the activity of these cells decreases, leading to less pigment production.

2. Genetics: Genetics plays a significant role in determining when and how fast graying occurs. If your parents or grandparents experienced premature graying, you may also be more prone to it.

Changes in Hair Texture

Many people notice changes in their hair texture as they age. Hair may become coarser, drier, or more brittle. These changes can be attributed to several factors:

1. Sebum Production: Sebum is the natural oil produced by the scalp to moisturize and protect the hair. As we age, sebum production may decrease, leading to drier and more brittle hair.

2. Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental stressors like sunlight, pollution, and harsh chemicals can damage the hair and contribute to changes in texture.

Caring for Aging Hair

While we cannot stop the natural aging process, we can take steps to care for our aging hair and maintain its health and appearance:

1. Nourishing Shampoos and Conditioners: Choose shampoos and conditioners that provide hydration and nourishment to dry and brittle hair. Look for products containing ingredients like argan oil, keratin, and biotin.

2. Regular Trimming: Regular trims can help maintain the health of the hair and prevent split ends, which can exacerbate hair breakage.

3. Gentle Hair Care: Be gentle with your hair to minimize damage. Avoid excessive heat styling, harsh chemicals, and tight hairstyles that can strain the hair shaft.

4. Balanced Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including biotin, iron, and zinc, can support hair health.

SUMMARY

As we age, our hair goes through natural changes, including thinning, graying, and changes in texture. These changes are influenced by factors like the hair growth cycle, hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and environmental exposure. While we cannot halt the aging process, understanding these changes and adopting hair care practices that promote hydration and nourishment can help maintain the health and vitality of our aging hair. Embracing our hair's natural evolution is an essential part of embracing our journey through life.

Jayti Shah is a Clinical Nutritionist with a master's degree in Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a member of the Indian Dietetic Association (IDA). Over the last 9 years, she has helped 400 clients in their clinical and weight loss journeys. She works with SocialBoat as a nutrition consultant.

At SocialBoat, we offer custom diet plans and guided workouts to help you achieve your goals in a 360-degree approach. Our gamified experience ensures that you don’t find workouts boring and we reward you for being consistent with your efforts.

REFERENCES

1. Sinclair R. (2005). Aging hair. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings, 10(3), 184-188.
2. Tobin DJ. (2011). Aging of the hair follicle pigmentation system. International Journal of Trichology, 3(2), 83-93.
3. Trueb RM. (2015). Pharmacologic interventions in aging hair. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 10, 169-177.
4. Sinclair R. (2005). Aging hair. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings, 10(3), 184-188.
5. Tobin DJ. (2011). Aging of the hair follicle pigmentation system. International Journal of Trichology, 3(2), 83-93.
6. Trueb RM. (2015). Pharmacologic interventions in aging hair. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 10, 169-177.