Changes in our hair as we age can be unnerving. And although there are numerous reasons texture changes happen, there are just as many solutions. To gain a better understanding of hair texture changes, we reached out to a few medical professionals and hairstylists who know better. Keep scrolling to learn about the potential causes of—and solutions for—changes in your hair texture.
COLLAGEN LOSS
Collagen is the most important protein for healthy, strong hair. When it starts to decline and less of this vital building block gets made by your body-you will start seeing symptoms like thinning or balding.
HORMONAL CHANGES
It’s no secret that hormones play a major role in our hair health. So, it’s only natural that changes in hormone levels can have an impact on our hair texture. One of the most common hormonal changes women experience is during menopause. As estrogen levels decline, hair follicles shrink, resulting in thinner hair.
LOW PROTEIN
If you’re not getting enough protein in your diet, it can cause your hair to change in texture. Your hair requires high levels of nutrients to reproduce, so if you’re not getting enough protein, it can cause your hair to become dry, brittle, and more difficult to style. So if you’re noticing that your hair is changing in texture or you’re losing more hair than usual, make sure to check your protein intake.
ENVIRONMENT CHANGE
The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, so it’s important to use a product specifically designed for that area. Look for an eye cream that contains hyaluronic acid or retinol, both of which are known for their anti-aging properties. It’s also important to find an eye cream that is fragrance-free, as artificial fragrances can irritate the delicate skin around your eyes. By using a good eye cream on a regular basis, you can help keep your skincare regimen working its best.
PRODUCT BUILDUP
Product buildup is one of the many reasons why women’s hair texture changes. When hair products, dead skin cells, and pollution build up on the scalp, it can leave hair looking dull and feeling less silky. To keep your hair looking and feeling its best, be sure to shampoo regularly and use a clarifying shampoo occasionally to remove buildup. In addition, avoid using hair products that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates, which can strip hair of its natural oils and moisture. Instead, opt for hair products that are specifically designed to hydrate and nourish hair.
MEDICATIONS
If you’re on any kind of medication, it’s always best to consult with your doctor about the potential side effects, which hair loss could be one of. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication altogether. In some cases, simply changing how you take the medicine can make a big difference. For example, if you’re taking a pill that can be absorbed through the skin, you may be able to switch to a patch.
HEATING ACCESSORIES
When it comes to hair care, we often focus on the hair on our heads. We worry about split ends, frizziness, and overall health. However, we neglect the fact that the chemicals we put in our hair can have just as much of an effect on our hair texture. Much like the chemical abuse from relaxers, color treatments, and other processing, heat abuse is another cause of hair thinning and texture changes.
Heat abuse can come in many forms. It can be from blow-drying your hair on high heat, straightening it with a flat iron, or even curling it with hot rollers. All of these things can cause irreversible damage to your hair, leading to thinning and changes in texture.
HARD WATER
If you have hard water, you might notice that your hair doesn’t feel as soft as it used to. Hard water can add to the buildup that may already be present in your hair, and it’s also notorious for not rinsing properly. This means that residue from shampoo and conditioner can end up being left in your hair. If you can, look into installing a filter in your shower or faucet to “soften” your water. This simple change can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your hair.
We hope this article has helped clear up some of the mystery around why women’s hair texture changes. While there are many factors that can contribute to these changes, we believe that armed with this information, you can make choices about your hair care routine that will help you maintain healthy and beautiful locks no matter what life throws your way.