Like the skin, our hair develops signs of ageing over time, with women noticing thinning, dryness, greying and even hair loss as they get older.
While these characteristics are normal and natural, it’s possible to minimise them and maintain a beautiful barnet well into your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond with the right know-how.
GB News spoke exclusively to a hair transplant surgeon and dermatologist about the main hair concerns affecting women over 40 and how they can combat them. Among other tips, both experts stressed the importance of a strategic diet.
Dr Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon at Kopelman Hair Restoration, stated: “Once women hit their 40s, I start seeing more patients concerned about hair thinning, shedding and overall loss of volume.
“This is often due to hormonal changes: oestrogen levels begin to decline and that can unmask the effects of androgens (like DHT), which contribute to female pattern hair loss.
“Another big concern is dryness, brittleness and slower hair growth, all of which can be signs of ageing hair or underlying nutritional deficiencies.
“To address this, the first step is identifying the cause, whether it’s hormonal, nutritional or related to stress or thyroid health – and then creating a tailored treatment plan.
“I often recommend a combination of gentle, scalp-friendly products, targeted supplements (if needed), and possibly treatments like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) or low-level laser therapy to help stimulate growth and improve hair quality.”
As for what women over 40 can do at home to see major improvements, the expert stressed that the impact of diet and lifestyle should not be overlooked.
“I always say that healthy hair starts from within,” the hair guru revealed. “A diet rich in lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc and vitamins like D and B12 can support hair health.
“Foods like salmon, eggs, leafy greens, nuts, seeds and berries are all great choices. Hydration matters too: dry, brittle hair can sometimes reflect dehydration.”
As for lifestyle, Dr Kopelman told hair care enthusiasts to manage their stress levels, warning that “chronic stress can trigger or worsen hair shedding (telogen effluvium)”.
For reduced stress levels, think mindfulness, regular exercise and quality sleep.
Women over 40 who smoke and drink to excess should also curb this, the expert advised. As well as being bad for your overall health, the hair guru explained that they can reduce circulation and nutrient delivery to the scalp.
The hair transplant surgeon also offered some hair-washing tips for sensational strands at any age.
He said: “As we age, the scalp produces less oil, so hair can get drier. I usually suggest washing less frequently – maybe two or three times per week – and using sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip the scalp.
“Focus conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends, and consider incorporating a deep conditioning mask once a week.
“Gentle towel drying and limiting heat styling can also help prevent breakage and maintain healthier strands.”
GB News also spoke exclusively to dermatologist and co-founder of RedliteX David Johnson about how women over 40 can give their hair a boost.
Hailing red light therapy as a “game-changer”, he urged hair care enthusiasts to look into this.
The doctor said: “I’ve spent my professional life searching for science-backed, non-surgical treatments to promote healthier skin and scalp.
“Red light therapy is something I am extremely passionate about. It’s become our mission at RedliteX to utilise state-of-the-art light technology to make people’s hair healthier.
“Red light therapy stimulates cell function and blood flow to hair follicles. It makes hair thicker and stronger over time. It’s a safe and natural means to have healthy hair as you age.”
According to the dermatologist, great hair is not simply a gift for the young. “You do not have to say goodbye to great hair with the passing years,” reassured Dr Johnson.
“Proper care, stress management, good styling tips and up-to-the-minute therapies can help you have healthy and youthful hair.”
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‘Hydration matters too: dry, brittle hair can sometimes reflect dehydration’
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Like hair transplant surgeon Dr Kopelman, Dr Johnson advocates for a healthy, hair-boosting diet.
He said: “Among the key factors causing hair transformation with advancing years is hormones. When oestrogen levels fall, hair becomes thinner and more brittle. For this reason, include those foods that aid in keeping hormones in balance like flaxseeds, soy and legumes.
“Protein is important as well because it builds keratin, the material your hair is made of. Lean meats, fish and eggs work well.
“Don’t forget omega-3 fatty acids in salmon and walnuts. They feed your scalp and reduce inflammation that can interfere with hair growth.”
Highlighting the benefits of relaxation and minimising stress, the dermatologist advised practising regular scalp massage.
“These stimulate blood flow to hair follicles to nourish them with what they need to be healthy,” he explained. “They also feel rather nice to boot.”
Finally, the expert told women over 40 that their “washing routine matters as well”. While it’s something we all do, many of us could be making damaging mistakes.
Dr Johnson said: “Overwashing your hair can remove natural oils and make your hair brittle and dry. Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos to seal in moisture and lightweight conditioners to preserve elasticity without weighing your hair down.”
Indeed, women can wash their way to beautiful locks if they learn the right shampoo and conditioner hacks.
One hairdresser spoke exclusively to GB News about the ingredients to look for in these products to “prevent split ends and boost hair growth”.
