As women age, hair undergoes changes, often resulting in concerns like thinning, dryness, and scalp sensitivity. With these shifts, developing a tailored hair-care routine is crucial to maintaining healthy, vibrant hair. Nic Cichocki, head spa specialist at Mark Ryan Salon, emphasizes the importance of crafting a personalized care plan, especially when access to a specialist is limited. “When things start changing, it can feel unnerving, so I work with clients to create a customized at-home care routine that fits their lifestyle,” he says. Below, we break down essential hair-care steps and recommended products for women over 50, with expert insights from top hairstylists and trichologists.
Must-Have: Shampoo and Conditioner
The foundation of any hair-care routine remains shampoo and conditioner. However, as we age, it’s essential to choose formulas that address specific needs. Celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel recommends using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and a hydrating conditioner a couple of times a week to maintain a clean and balanced scalp. He advises that fine or oily hair might need daily washing, while dry or textured hair may benefit from less frequent washes and conditioner applied from mid-lengths to ends.
For specific concerns, trichologist Angela Onuoha suggests opting for shampoos that target issues such as density or scalp sensitivity. Choose a conditioner that softens the hair fiber, as hair tends to lose elasticity and becomes more fragile with age.
Recommended Products:
Nioxin Hair Fall Defense Shampoo ($29)
Alterna CAVIAR Anti-Aging Clinical Densifying Shampoo ($38)
Act + Acre Stem Cell Conditioner ($42)
Must-Have: Brush with Care
As hair becomes more delicate with age, it’s essential to use the right tools. Onuoha highlights that “aging hair is often more fragile, so the tools you use play a huge role in preventing damage.” Opt for brushes designed to be gentle on aging hair to minimize breakage.
Recommended Products:
Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Extra Gentle ($16)
Manta Anti-Breakage Hairbrush ($35)
Recommended: Scalp Care
A healthy scalp is key to healthy hair. Cichocki stresses that nurturing the scalp can significantly improve hair health. Scalp products should be tailored to individual needs—whether it’s an exfoliating scrub, soothing serum, or treatments with ingredients like niacinamide and peptides to support follicle function.
Recommended Products:
Nioxin Scalp Purifying Exfoliator ($26)
Philip Kingsley Overnight Scalp Barrier Serum ($43)
Augustinus Bader The Scalp Treatment ($90)
Recommended: Scalp Massage
Incorporating a scalp massage into your routine, even for just a minute or two, can stimulate blood flow and enhance product absorption. Abergel suggests this simple addition to encourage a healthier follicle environment.
Recommended: Density Boosters
Hair thinning is a common concern, and density-boosting products can make a significant difference. Abergel recommends incorporating a spray, serum, or shampoo designed to reduce hair fall and promote thickness.
Recommended Products:
Virtue Flourish Density Booster ($50)
The Rootist Densifying & Thickening Serum for Thinning Hair ($58)
Rodan + Fields DENSIFYING Treatment ($56)
Recommended: Hydrating Hair Masks
As hair tends to become drier and more fragile with age, Bentson and Abergel both emphasize the importance of deep hydration. A rich conditioning mask applied weekly can restore moisture and strength.
Recommended Products:
Unite 7SECONDS Masque ($53)
Virtue Restorative Treatment Mask ($34)
Better Not Younger Hair Redemption Restorative Butter Masque ($36)
Recommended: Silk Pillowcases
For women over 50, silk pillowcases can help maintain hair health. Abergel recommends sleeping on a silk pillowcase, especially for those who color or heat-style their hair, as it helps preserve vibrancy and prevents hair breakage.
Recommended Products:
Slip Silk Pillowcase ($105)
Blissy Silk Pillowcase ($106)
Recommended: Bond Repair Treatments
For hair that has been damaged by chemical treatments or heat styling, a bond repair treatment is essential. These treatments strengthen hair from within, improving its overall health.
Recommended Products:
K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask ($75)
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector ($30)
Recommended: Frequent Haircuts
Regular trims are important for maintaining hair health and preventing split ends. Abergel advises visiting a stylist every couple of months to keep hair in top condition. It’s also essential to collaborate with a stylist who understands your hair goals, says Cichocki.
Recommended: Focus on Overall Health
Hair changes can often signal broader health issues, so Cichocki recommends paying attention to overall health, including regular check-ups for hormone imbalances, gut health, and stress management. Onuoha also suggests getting hormone levels checked if you’re experiencing sudden shedding or thinning, as hormonal changes often affect hair health.
By following these expert-backed tips and incorporating the right products into your routine, you can help maintain healthy, beautiful hair through your 50s and beyond.
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