Hair Aging: How to Slow Down Time for Your Hair and Scalp

Yes, hair gets old, too — and we’ve got your anti-aging plan right here.

Nov 20, 2024

Just like our skin, our hair goes through its own aging process, with subtle signs that can affect both how it looks and feels. Hair aging isn’t just about the appearance of grays; our strands may gradually lose volume, elasticity, and shine, while the scalp’s health can change, too. And then of course, there’s the daunting hair loss, which only seems to get worse as the years pass. Sounds familiar? If you’re wondering what’s behind these changes, there’s more at play than just birthdays — think lifestyle, diet, and how we treat our hair daily.

Why Does Hair Age?

While genetics have a big say in how quickly our hair ages, there are plenty of other factors that can speed things up. Stress, for instance, doesn’t just show up on our faces; it can make our hair feel thinner or more prone to shedding. Diet also plays a role — hair loves its nutrients, and a lack of them can leave it brittle or prone to breakage. Add in some UV exposure, heat styling, and chemical treatments, and you’ve got a perfect storm for aging hair. (Also read: What Happens to Hair During Menopause)

So, what can we do to keep our hair looking vibrant and full for as long as possible? Here’s a mix of simple steps, targeted products, and some professional treatments that are well worth considering.

Anti-Aging Tips for Your Hair

1. Start from within.

Good hair begins with a good diet. Essential vitamins like B, C, D, E, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are known to support hair growth and keep it looking strong. Hair-targeted supplements are also great allies, especially when we need an extra boost.

You might want to check out options like the Iraltone Forte Capsules, P2,200, which support healthy hair and nails with a combination of L-Cystine (a hair-strengthening amino acid), glutathione, vitamins B5 and B6, copper, and zinc. Bosley MD Healthy Hair Growth Supplements For Women, P3,200, meanwhile, contains biotin, niacin, and zinc — to maintain healthy hair and reduce shedding — as well as DHT-inhibiting botanicals to combat hair loss.

Iraltone Forte Capsules, P2,200

Bosley MD Healthy Hair Growth Supplements For Women, P3,200

2. Don’t forget your scalp.

A healthy scalp is the foundation of good hair health, but it often gets overlooked. As we age, the scalp can lose elasticity and moisture, which impacts our hair growth. Try using a scalp scrub weekly to help remove buildup and stimulate blood flow (we recommend Bosley Rejuvenating Scalp Scrub, P1,850), or go for a lightweight scalp treatment that hydrates without making things greasy.

Products like the Kamedis SEBO Dandruff / Scalp Control Shampoo, P1,800, also work wonders in soothing and purifying the scalp — specifically for those who are prone to dandruff and itchiness.

Bosley Rejuvenating Scalp Scrub, P1,850

Kamedis SEBO Dandruff / Scalp Control Shampoo, P1,800

3. Level up the hydration and protection.

Hair aging often shows up in dryness and brittleness, so keeping hair hydrated is key. Look for shampoos and conditioners specially designed for dry or aging hair. A strengthening shampoo like Iraltone Fortifying Shampoo, P1,250, can help nourish and hydrate from root to tip, while a gentle, sulfate-free option like Vanicream Shampoo, P1,850, minimizes drying and is ideal for sensitive scalps.

And if you’re using heat tools, don’t skip the heat protectant! Regularly applying heat protectants helps prevent damage, reduce breakage, and keep hair looking smooth and shiny.

Iraltone Fortifying Shampoo, P1,250

Vanicream Shampoo, P1,850

4. Manage graying hair.

Graying hair is a natural part of aging, but there are ways to embrace it or manage its appearance. If you’re not ready to go fully gray, consider hair dyes that suit your style. There are also products specifically formulated for gray hair, such as purple shampoos, which can help enhance silver tones.

If you’ve got dyed hair, make sure you use hair products made to care for color-treated locks. Bosley BOSRevive Nourishing Shampoo, P2,200, comes in a variant specifically suited for color-treated hair — helping rejuvenate thinning strands and nourishing the scalp without damaging your color.

For those who want to embrace the gray, regular trims and a great haircut can help your grays look fresh and stylish, while a nourishing conditioner (try Bosley BOSRevive Nourishing Conditioner, P2,200) can keep those strands feeling soft and healthy.

Bosley BOSRevive Nourishing Shampoo, P2,200

Bosley BOSRevive Nourishing Conditioner, P2,200

5. Try professional treatments:

Sometimes, a professional treatment can make a big difference:

Scalp Treatments: Usually offered at salons, these range from exfoliating scalp facials to hydrating treatments that help reset your scalp.
Meso Hair: This mesotherapy treatment (available at Bella Pelle) uses intradermal injections of vitamin B complex, copper tri-peptide, and other essential nutrients to the scalp to address hair loss and stimulate hair growth.
ASCE+ HRLV: This advanced hair treatment is designed to combat thinning and hair loss, utilizing exosome technology to nourish the scalp, stimulate hair growth, and improve overall hair density.
AnteAGE MD Home Hair System: This innovative system — designed for at-home use — delivers professional-grade ingredients to promote healthy hair growth and scalp health. It includes a serum and a treatment spray that work together to nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles.

AnteAGE MD Home Hair System

Plus: A Few Extra Habits

To keep your hair looking its best, make sure not to over-wash it — stripping natural oils can make it dry and more prone to breakage. Limit heat styling to a minimum and wear a hat when you’re out in the sun to help protect against UV damage. And, when possible, try gentle hair ties like scrunchies to avoid unnecessary breakage.

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Hair aging doesn’t mean saying goodbye to beautiful, healthy hair. With some small tweaks to your routine and the right products, you can keep your hair looking lush and healthy — even in your 40s, 50s or beyond. Not sure where to seek expert advice? Dermatologists also specialize in hair and scalp conditions, making them well-equipped to address concerns such as hair loss, thinning hair, and even the effects of aging on your crowning glory.

For customized skincare and wellness recommendations, you can book a face-to-face or virtual consultation with Dr. Navarro here. You may also contact the Bella Pelle Skin Solutions Clinic at (+63) 999-887-1933. For a full list of facial services and other treatments, click here.

Bella Pelle Skin Solutions is located 2/F L Building, #142 Katipunan, Brgy. Saint Ignatius, Quezon City. The center is open Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.