From a scientific point of view, hair hides a great deal of information about what is going on deeper in the body. Socially, it represents a distinctive element in people’s appearance.
Weight loss develops naturally over time and is rarely a cause for concern, but rather a reflection of hormonal changes in the body. However, it can hinder trust as it becomes more visible.
While a quick internet search will turn up dozens of treatments for dry strands, the biggest difference can come from a new and improved hair care routine.
Causes of hair loss after 50
Dr. Ray Kleinfelder, Board Certified Dermatologist at Lux Dermatology, explained in an interview with GB News that the reduction in estrogen production in the ovaries is a key factor in hair loss after menopause.
The solution to thicker, shinier hair may be a few extra steps in the shower
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At this stage, women have “relative hormonal balance with an increased influence of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (male sex hormones), which cause changes in the skin and hair, including patterned hair loss,” the expert noted.
According to Dr. Kleinfelder, this drop in hormones not only causes baldness, but can also rob hair of its luster.
Can hair thinning be reversed?
When asked if reversal is possible, Dr Kleinfelder commented: “Reversal is possible if caught early.
“Maintaining existing hair and maximizing the thickness of that existing hair is most important to achieving the desired look.
“This can be done in [several] ways, from topicals to prescription drugs, light, lasers, injections and more.”
The basics of hair care over 50
Basic rules of hair care include regular trims to keep the ends blunt as split ends travel the trail.
However, when the emphasis is on thickening and improving gloss, there are other elements to consider.
First and foremost, not all products can provide the desired results.
The highest recommendation is to choose shampoos and conditioners formulated for dilution, specifically clarifying shampoos.
These deep cleanse the scalp and remove product build-up, dead skin cells, dirt and other impurities that could clog follicles.
Diet tips
Healthy food is a key building block for all things hair and skin related, so it’s no surprise that diet requires special attention when things get rough.
“Maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential for hair, regardless of menopause,” explained Dr. Kleinfelder.
Sufficient intake of protein, vitamins and minerals such as zinc, selenium, copper and vitamin D is essential.
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,” noted the expert. “You can get biotin from food like eggs, so you need to include plenty of biotin-rich foods in your diet along with any supplement you take.
“The most important thing to remember is that hair grows in 90-day cycles, so you should persevere with all these diet and lifestyle changes to start seeing noticeable results.”
Head massage in the shower will increase blood flow to the scalp
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Scalp care
Erim, a trained trichologist and founder and CEO of hair 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 product absorption (hair oils, serums), helping to achieve thicker, shinier hair,” an expert told GB News.
“Scalp exfoliation should not be a daily ritual,” warned the expert, explaining that one treatment per week is enough if left on for five minutes before washing.
“Used sparingly and as needed would do no harm,” Erim noted. “The last thing you want is to overdo it and leave your scalp feeling dry and rough.”
Erim likes to follow up with a deep oil treatment the day after her scalp has been exfoliated, washing off the oil with shampoo and conditioner.
Naturally, consistency is key to seeing impressive, long-lasting changes, so the sooner you incorporate these practices into your routine, the better.