With every year, our hair changes. It’s inevitable, but not unmanageable. From masks to serums to conditioners, there are products made with your hair in mind. Whether your goal is to stop natural thinning, increase softness and shine, protect from breakage, or trade brittle for silky, you’ve got options.
First―why does hair change so much with age? Thinning happens as natural oil production declines. “The diameter of the hair becomes smaller,” says Dr Janiene Luke, MD, “and results in hair that is not as shiny, soft, or smooth.” While hair loss doesn’t necessarily increase over time, what does change is the natural rate of regrowth. You may also notice changes in your hair’s texture and style―that’s completely normal with natural aging processes, hormone shifts, and environmental changes! Those curly-haired may notice a change in curl patterns, and straight hair can become a little more wavy. And of course, the graying process, a result of lower melanin levels, can also begin in midlife. Many of these factors are subject to genetics, but can be improved by lifestyle changes like good gut health and digestion, stress management, and lowering inflammation.
Here are 6 hair products for stronger, shinier, and thicker hair as you age.
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For Protection, Softness, & Growth: Commence Leave-In-Conditioner
Did you know that Brooke Shields founded haircare specifically for women over forty? Their motto: “We know your hair has changed―and your hair care routine should too.” This all-in-one leave-in treatment from Shields’ brand Commence increases shine, tames frizz, softens strands, and protects from thermal damage to maintain healthy hair and support healthy growth at the follicle. Apply daily or after cleansing and conditioning to damp or dry hair, comb through gently, and style as usual.
SHOP: Commence 3-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner, $26
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For Dry, Weakened Hair: Kérastase Mask
This tried-and-true Kérastase mask is designed to give intense care for sensitive and dry hair. Simply apply to wet hair, massage and rinse! This mask can be used daily.
SHOP: Kérastase Specifique Rehydratant Hair Mask, $68
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Scalp Health & Hair Growth For All Hair Types: Cupid’s Kiss Serum
This Cupid’s Kiss serum boasts a “liquid plot-twister in the battle against hair loss”. It’s designed to stimulate hair growth, promote scalp health and follicle revitalization. This product is a splurge, but you’re in good hands―founder Annika von Holdt created her brand to address her own hair problem of progressive degradation to her silver hair. Apply the serum on damp or dry scalp, gently massaging in and leaving in to dry.
SHOP: Cupid’s Kiss Antimatter Scalp Serum, $108
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For Curly Hair Breakage: Pattern Mask
Goodbye brittle curls! This mask from Tracee Ellis Ross’ hair line Pattern is infused with white tea and Manuka honey to prevent damage, breakage, and maintain moisture balance. Apply generously to dry hair from ends to roots, and let sit on curly hair for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
SHOP: Pattern Breakage Barrier Hair Mask, $25
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Thickening For Fine Hair: OUAI Shampoo & Conditioner
This color-safe shampoo and conditioner duo by OUAI breathes life into fine, flat hair with strengthening keratin, biotin, and nourishing chia seed oil to thicken and rejuvenate fine hair. Apply shampoo to wet hair from roots to ends thoroughly, rinse, then comb conditioner into your wet hair from middle to ends. Tip: Rinse clean with cold water to lock in shine!
SHOP: OUAI Sulfate-Free Fine Shampoo and Conditioner Set, $64
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Hydration, Heat, & Shine For All Hair Types: Oribe Oil
A luxuriously light oil that absorbs instantly to restore hair to its prime. Infused with a rich blend of jasmine, edelweiss flower, lychee, sandalwood, cassis and argan extracts, this hair oil provides heat protection, prevents breakage, restores damaged hair, and adds silkiness and shine back in! Apply oil to damp hair.
SHOP: Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, $42
As you care for your hair and choose products that suit your unique needs, here are a few other helpful pieces of advice.
- Hair health and growth begins at the scalp. Skincare is not just for your face!
- If your hair is naturally fine, straight, or wavy, opt for lighter, more sensitive strengthening products to prevent extra oil build up while maintaining strength and thickness.
- With curly hair, moisture and protection is key as this hair type is prone to dryness and breakage. To avoid stripping natural oils, don’t over wash!
- Our hair can change with time, diet, environment, and even life stress―be flexible with it and embrace new styles, products, and both hair and self-care routines.
As Brooke Shields, founder of Commence Haircare says, “When your hair looks good, you feel good, period. Let’s embrace our next chapter, together.”
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