From a scientific point of view, hair contains a wealth of information about what is happening deeper in the body. Socially, it represents a striking element in people’s appearance.
Thinning develops naturally over time and is rarely a cause for concern, but rather a reflection of hormonal changes in the body. However, it can hamper confidence as it becomes more noticeable.
While a quick internet search will turn up dozens of treatments for parched strands, the biggest differences can come from a new and improved hair care routine.
Causes of hair loss after 50 years
Speaking to GB News, Dr. Ray Kleinfelder, a board-certified dermatologist at Lux Dermatology, explains that a decrease in estrogen production in the ovaries is a major cause of hair loss after menopause.
The solution to thicker, shinier hair may lie in a few extra steps in the shower
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At this stage, women have a “relative hormonal balance, with an increased impact of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (male sex hormones) that cause changes to the skin and hair, including pattern hair loss,” the expert noted.
According to Dr. Kleinfelder, this decrease in hormones not only causes baldness, but can also rob hair of its shine.
Can hair loss be reversed?
When asked if reversal is possible, Dr. Kleinfelder noted, “Reversal is possible if caught early.
“Maintaining existing hair and maximizing the thickness of this existing hair is paramount to achieving the desired appearance.
“This can be achieved indoors [several] ways, from topical formulations to prescription medications, light, lasers, injectables and more.
The basics of hair care for people over 50
Basic hair care rules include regular trimming to keep ends blunt, as split ends move up the shaft.
However, when the focus is on thickening and improving shine, there are additional elements to consider.
First and foremost, not all products can produce the desired results.
The main recommendation is to opt for shampoos and conditioners formulated for thinning, namely clarifying shampoos.
These deeply cleanse the scalp and remove product build-up, dead skin cells, dirt and other impurities that can clog the follicles.
Diet tips
Healthy nutrition is an important building block for everything related to hair and skin, so it is no surprise that diet requires special attention if the situation worsens.
“Maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential for hair regardless of menopause,” explains Dr. Kleinfelder.
It is essential to get enough proteins, vitamins and minerals such as zinc, selenium, copper and vitamin D.
Biomedical expert Kashish Golani emphasizes that omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are equally important.
“Biotin is a fantastic supplement for hair, skin and nails,” said the expert. “You can get biotin from foods such as eggs, so you should include plenty of biotin-rich foods in your diet in addition to any supplement you take.
“The most important thing to remember is that hair grows in 90-day cycles, so you have to stick with all these diet and lifestyle changes to see noticeable results.”
Head massages in the shower stimulate blood flow to the scalp
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Scalp care
Erim, a trichologist in training and founder and CEO of hair care and beard care brand ByErim, suggests using an exfoliating scrub in the shower to boost shine.
“Exfoliating the scalp with the right AHAs and a chemical exfoliant with natural ingredients helps cleanse the scalp for better absorption of products (hair oils, serums) creating thicker and shinier hair,” the expert told GB News.
“Exfoliating the scalp should not be a daily ritual,” the expert warned, explaining that one treatment per week is sufficient if left on for five minutes before washing.
“If you use it sparingly and as needed, it wouldn’t cause any damage,” Erim noted. “The last thing you want is to overdo it and leave the scalp dry and rough.”
Erim likes to follow up with a deep oil treatment the day after her scalp is exfoliated and wash this oil off with shampoo and conditioner.
Of course, consistency is the key to long-term impactful changes, so the sooner you incorporate these practices into your routine, the better.