optimal hair: Age 35 and beyond

In midlife, even if you’ve addressed your hormones, your hair and scalp may require additional targeted techniques and support. Hair naturally changes with age, and midlife hormonal shifts can speed this process up. There are some easy (and free!) ways to help your hair and body during this time. Below are some ‘what not to do’ tips along with some ‘hair helpers’ for use on your journey.

What not to do

• Do not aggressively detangle or brush wet hair: hair is weakest when wet and therefore more susceptible to breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb and start from the tips of your hair, gently working your way up.

• Do not keep hair in tight buns, ponytails or braids: tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia (hair loss caused by repeatedly or constantly pulling on your hair).

• Try not to sleep with wet hair: this encourages bacteria and yeast growth and could potentially cause scalp issues.

• Do not use heat styling tools on wet hair: avoid using curling and flat irons (and very high heat hair dryers) on soaking wet hair to avoid ‘bubble hair’, a condition where water converts into steam and expands inside the hair fiber. This causes weak points and breakage in your hair shaft.

Healthy hair and scalp

A healthy hair and scalp is not all about hair products, styling techniques, or what brand of blow dryer you’re using. A comprehensive approach is key, as other factors aside from those are just as important to hair (and scalp) health. This includes:

• Washing your scalp regularly and frequently. Do not try to ‘train’ your hair to need less washing by shampooing it less frequently as buildup, excess oil, and scalp irritation can impact hair growth over time. For many, washing your scalp (and by extension, hair) on average 3-times per week is sufficient, though this will vary depending on your scalp, hair type, and activity level.

• Make scalp exfoliation part of your weekly routine. Have a shampoo ‘wardrobe’ that includes a product targeted to your scalp condition (a flaky or itchy scalp shampoo or a clarifying shampoo) along with a ‘go-to’ shampoo for your hair needs (like a body building or a conditioning/smoothing shampoo). Explore scalp serums/toners (think glycolic, salicylic or polyhydroxy acids) and pre-shampoo treatments that contain bond builders or oils for your hair as needed.

• Nutrition: skipping meals isn’t ideal, nor is crash dieting. Your hair (and skin + body) requires sufficient protein, fats, and a variety of vitamins, minerals, and more to function properly, and maintain and repair body tissues.

• Stress: stress and hair loss can be related. De-stressing your life and learning techniques that boost your ‘stress management capabilities’ in high stress times may be helpful in your situation.

• Minimize exposure of your hair and scalp to the sun. Wear a hat, and tuck your hair into the hat when outdoors.

• Wash your hair brushes and combs regularly, just as you do make-up brushes and facecloths.

VIRTUAL hair HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACHING

As a scientist and midlife professional, over the years I have had my share of hair changes. I’ve experienced stress, post-pregnancy, low thyroid, and hormonal changes hair loss situations. You can trust that my coaching programs are not product-driven sales pitches or promises of fast-fixes, but rather a customized (and science-backed) approach to discovering how we can amplify your hair health and overall wellness.

Are you ready to get started? If so, book your complimentary call today! I would love to learn about you and your situation.