The Secrets to Healthy, Younger-Looking Hair

Woman s Day

By Woman's Day Staff

 The trick to maintaining healthy hair as you age could be as simple as switching your shampoo. Keep reading for smart solutions and expert tips to keep your tresses gorgeous-and take years off your face. Photo by Thinkstock


Thinning Hair
It's normal to shed up to 150 strands of hair a day. But over time you produce less hair and the diameter of the shaft thins as growth slows, explains Dr. Jeni Thomas, principal scientist for P&G Beauty. Instead of thickening products that just bind fibers together, look for something that contains caffeine or panthenol to actually increase the diameter of hair.

Related: Check out the most wanted celebrity hairstyles this season.

Changing Texture
Straight hair can suddenly turn wavy or vice versa once you're well into adulthood. "Texture changes are the result of genetics, hormone fluctuations or the environment and can be different for everyone," explains Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD. The easiest way to deal with your new texture? Switch to a shampoo and conditioner designed for your current hair type, or go with one formulated for aging hair.

Related: Discover 10 hairstyles that make you look younger.

Going Gray
Blame it on a decrease of melanin, the pigment responsible for your hair color, explains Thomas. Since pigment also serves as a protective layer, when its production slows down, hair becomes more susceptible to damage. One solution: Color your hair with a product that is ammonia-free. This means it doesn't contain harsh chemicals, says celebrity hairstylist Andre Walker.

Related: Try 10 ways to reinvent your look.

Products to Try

Keep strands looking younger with these expert-approved picks

Cleanse hair and add vibrancy. Nexxus Youth Renewal Rejuvenating Shampoo, $12.39; Amazon.com

Hide gray with an ammonia-free formula made with antioxidants. Clairol Natural Instincts, $19.17 for pack of 3; Amazon.com

Add thickness to hair fibers. Pantene AgeDefy Thickening Treatment, $16.54; Amazon.com

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