Thin hair with age: 3 tips from a trichologist to regain the hair of your youth after 50

With age, hair changes, sometimes in a confusing way. Less dense, finer, drier, they also seem to grow more slowly, or even no longer exceed a certain length. A common phenomenon, often linked to profound biological changes.

As trichologist Afopé Atoyebi explains in an article byStylist UK, “The most common changes include a shortening of the growth phase, a progressive reduction in follicle size, a decrease in density, a loss of cells responsible for pigmentation and a decrease in sebum production.”. Result: the hair becomes “shorter, thinner, less dense, drier and sometimes more brittle”. A natural process, linked in particular to “decreased stem cell activity, reduced blood supply, increased sensitivity to hormones, and increased oxidative stressâ€. So many factors that directly affect the ability of the follicle to produce thick and strong hair over the years.

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Focus on treatments that strengthen the fiber

To counter these effects, the hair routine must evolve. “As hair ages, it is essential to support the scalp environment and strengthen the structure of the hair fiber.”explains Afopé Atoyebi. In particular, she recommends using conditioners containing conditioning polymers, which “reduce friction and damage by forming a protective layer around the hairâ€. Ingredients like ceramides and rich lipids also allow “to provide softness and suppleness”while light proteins, peptides and amino acids contribute to “maintain the structural integrity of the hair”.

Protect hair from daily aggressions

Over time, hair becomes more vulnerable to external aggression. “Hair damage is cumulative”recalls the specialist. So, limiting the use of heat tools or aggressive practices is crucial. “Avoiding regular use of extreme styling tools plays an important roleâ€underlines Afopé Atoyebi. And if their use is inevitable, she insists: “It is essential to integrate thermal protection into your routine”. A simple but decisive action to preserve the weakened hair fiber.

Adopt a lifestyle favorable to growth

Finally, hair health is not limited to treatments applied to the surface. “The scalp and hair are deeply connected to the rest of the bodyâ€recalls the trichologist. In other words, lifestyle habits directly influence hair quality. According to Afopé Atoyebi, “Adequate intake of protein, iron, vitamin D and micronutrients, good metabolic health, regular physical activity and quality sleep are associated with better long-term hair growth”. Anything that promotes blood circulation and reduces chronic inflammation thus becomes beneficial for the follicles.

Over the years, adapting your routine and habits becomes essential. Because although hair aging is inevitable, it is possible to reduce its effects and sustainably preserve the vitality of your hair.