Why does hair age?

There are internal and external causes of hair aging. Internal causes include hormones, medical problems, and genetics. As women age, less estrogen is produced, which directly affects hair growth and texture. By Jennifer T. Trent, MD FAAD on February 15 2023—https://healthnews.com/beauty/hair/how-to-take-care-of-aging-hair/ Men will produce fewer androgens as they age, leading to hair loss and aging. Certain medical conditions cause hair to age, such as hypothyroidism. Finally, genetics controls how the hair will change with age, like getting thinner and finer or falling out and leaving bald areas. External factors can mostly be controlled and avoided to prevent premature hair aging. UV radiation from the sun will age hair more quickly. Free radicals from UV rays destroy the hair like they do the skin. Many hair care practices, such as dyeing, straightening, or perms, will damage hair and make it appear older. A poor diet, such as those lacking in protein and antioxidants, with excess alcohol intake, damages the hair and prevents it from growing properly and looking healthy. Smoking, like UV radiation, destroys the hair. Stress causes the hormone cortisol to be released, which thins the hair. Finally, certain medications, which may not be able to be avoided, will cause hair to fall out, such as blood thinners and blood pressure meds. Unfortunately, these are necessary, life-saving meds, and many times must be taken despite hair loss.

Tips to help aging hairEven though the hair is preprogrammed to age, there are things we can do to prevent premature aging or even counteract it somewhat. As soon as you notice changes in your hair, such as thinning or becoming dull and dry, see your doctor immediately. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can treat it. If you have medical problems causing changes in your hair, your doctor can diagnose and treat them to help restore your hair to a healthier status. Undiagnosed and untreated medical issues may cause permanent damage to your hair. Also, if your medications are causing problems with your hair, your doctor may be able to swap them out for others that do not.