5 ways your hair can change with age (and how to keep it healthy)
We hate to be the one to tell you, but haircare isn’t ever one-size-fits-all – especially as we begin the natural ageing process.
The latest influencer to spring onto TikTok with a new 10-step routine, promising miracle results for all her followers? It likely won’t work for you, unless you have the exact same hair type & texture, and are subject to identical environmental factors or genetics. Trust us – we’ve trial and errored enough over the years to learn that what works for one, may not work for another.
Getting older means natural hair changes, which means adjusting to new concerns, embracing new imperfections, and considering a few subtle switch-ups to help you adapt to your new mane with ease.
How does our hair change as we age?
“As we grow older, our hair evolves, just like we do,” starts Erim. “These changes are completely normal – hair can change in the way it looks and feels, how it grows and responds to haircare. But understanding why these shifts happen can help us take better care of our hair as we go through different stages in life.”
“Hair typically begins to change in texture, colour, and thickness during our late 20s to early 30s, though this can vary depending on genetics, hormones, and lifestyle,” she reveals. “Greying, for instance, often starts in the 30s or 40s, but can appear earlier or later depending on family history."
"Hormonal shifts such as those during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can also trigger noticeable changes in hair at various stages of life. While there’s a general timeline, hair changes can happen at almost any age, influenced by both internal and external factors."
5 ways our hair can change with age
1) Hair Colour
“With age, the melanocytes in our hair follicles which are the cells responsible for producing melanin (a pigment that gives hair its colour) begin to slow down and eventually stop producing pigment,” tells Erim. “This leads to a gradual transition from our natural hair colour to grey, silver, or white. It’s largely genetic, but stress, hormonal changes, and nutrient deficiencies (like Vitamin B12 or copper) can accelerate the process.”
How to adapt:
- “Use hair oils with antioxidant-rich ingredients like amla, used traditionally to support pigment retention.”
- “Be gentle with dyed or grey hair it can be more porous and prone to dryness.”
- “Embrace grey hair with targeted products that enhance its tone and shine, rather than fight it.”
2) Texture & Shine
“Hair may become more coarse or brittle with age,” Erim admits. “It also tends to lose its natural shine and smooth texture. Sebum production from the scalp slows with age, leading to drier strands and scalp. This lack of natural oil means hair becomes less lubricated, contributing to dullness and a rougher feel. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause, can also alter the structure of the hair.”
How to adapt:
- “Nourishing the hair with hydrating masks and oils as part of your routine. ByErim’s 100% natural Hair Oil, with argan and coconut oils, can deeply nourish and restore softness.”
- “Reduce heat styling and opt for leave-in conditioners or serums that boost shine.”
- “Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and preserve moisture overnight.”
3) Hair Growth
“You may notice hair not growing as long or as quickly as it used to. Hair follicles go through three main phases: growth (anagen), rest (telogen), and shedding (catagen),” shares Erim. “With age, the anagen (growth) phase shortens which is why hair doesn’t grow back as long or as fast it used to. Hormonal changes and reduced blood circulation to the scalp can also affect your hair follicles.”
How to adapt:
- “A good massage to stimulate blood flow to the scalp frequently, using oils containing rosemary or peppermint, proven to help support circulation.”
- “Yes – what you eat matters. Ensuring a diet rich in iron, zinc, biotin, and protein all essential for healthy hair growth.”
- “Avoid overly tight hairstyles that put tension on the follicles.”
4) Density & Thickness
“Hair becomes thinner in diameter and may feel less full or voluminous. This is most noticeable around the temples, crown, or parting line. Hair follicles can shrink over time. Hormonal shifts, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT) sensitivity, can lead to miniaturisation of follicles. Age-related health conditions or medications can also contribute to this.”
How to adapt:
- “Support follicle health with scalp treatments rich in castor oil, rosemary oil, or coconut oil.”
- “Volumising shampoos and strengthening conditioners can help lift roots without weighing hair down.”
- “Consider adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha (consult a GP or trichologist) to help with hormonal balance if needed.”
5) Damage & Breakage
“Your hair becomes more fragile and prone to breakage, especially at the ends. With less sebum production and a longer life cycle between trims, hair is more vulnerable to environmental damage. Greying hair also has a slightly different structure that can make it more susceptible to breakage.”
How to adapt:
- “Get regular trims to remove split ends and reduce further breakage.”
- “Use deep conditioning treatments weekly to replenish moisture and elasticity.”
- “Incorporate protective hairstyles to reduce mechanical stress, and avoid harsh brushing or over-washing.”
Hair Ageing Concerns: How to Solve Them
“While we can’t stop hair ageing entirely, we can definitely slow it down with proper care,” reassures Erim. “A balanced diet, stress management and protecting hair from heat and harsh chemicals are key.”
“Using natural, nourishing products like those from ByErim which are rich in essential oils can help maintain scalp health, strengthen strands, and preserve shine. Regular trims, gentle handling, and avoiding over-washing also support healthy-looking hair as we age.”
“For maintaining healthy-looking hair, some key ingredients offer powerful benefits,” Erim says. “Caffeine stimulates the scalp and encourages stronger hair growth, while Betaine helps retain moisture, keeping hair smooth and hydrated. Keratin strengthens the hair shaft, reducing breakage and improving resilience.”
“ByErim’s signature blend of essential oils, including castor, coconut, almond, and argan oil, deeply nourishes, adds shine, and supports overall scalp health. Together, these ingredients help protect against damage, promote growth and leave hair looking thick, healthy, and nourished.”
Advice For Mature Hair
For Smoothness
“To create a smoother texture on more mature strands, it is very important to focus on moisture, strength and protection,” Erim confirms. “As hair ages, it naturally becomes drier, thinner, and more brittle due to reduced sebum production and changes in keratin structure.”
“Using a high-quality hair oil like ByErim which combines castor, coconut, almond, and argan oils is especially effective. This blend delivers a rich mix of fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins that deeply nourish the hair. Scientifically, these oils help reduce protein loss and replenish the lipid layer, improving elasticity and smoothing rough texture. Regular use supports stronger, shinier and more manageable hair over time.”
For Growth
“Focus on stimulating the scalp, strengthening the hair shaft and maintaining overall hair health,” advises Erim. “Regular massages and ingredients like caffeine can boost blood circulation to the scalp, encouraging follicle activity and growth.”
“Nourishing oils such as castor, coconut, almond, and argan provide essential nutrients and fatty acids that condition the scalp and support healthy roots. Additionally, keeping the scalp clean, managing stress, and ensuring a diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins are key in supporting long-term growth and resilience in mature hair.”
For Shine & Softness
“To restore shine and softness to greying strands, hydration and nourishment are key,” says Erim. “As hair greys, it often becomes coarser and drier due to a loss of melanin and natural oils. Using high quality products like ByErim’s (which include amla extract and oil) is especially beneficial. Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that help strengthen hair and reduce dullness.”
“The blend of castor, coconut, almond, and argan oils deeply conditions the hair, smooths the cuticle, and restores softness. Regular oil treatments, combined with gentle cleansing and avoiding excessive heat styling, help bring grey strands back to life with a healthier, more vibrant finish.”