Understanding Aging and Mature Hair

Aging is inevitable and our hair is definitely not exempted from this natural process. However, mature hair is not just synonymous with old age and grey hair. It can occur as early as you hit your teens.

What Is Mature Hair?

Mature hair is any hair that is porous, weak and in need of hydration and nourishment. You can have mature hair with or without grey hair.

What Causes Mature Hair?

Environmental agressors such as Ultra Violet type A or B rays (UVA/ UVB). These rays have the power to cause damage to the hair cuticle as well as its inner structure.
Chemicals (e.g., relaxers, perms, highlights, harsh shampoos)
Mechanical heating tools (e.g., flat irons and curling irons)
Long Hair. Yes, that's right! Long hair is specially prone to maturity (even when regular trims are performed). Why? Because it is exposed to many elements and it's not protected by the natural oils of the scalp as short hair is.

With sun exposure, regular and improper use of chemicals and tools, your hair can show gradual damage (e.g., breakage, brittleness). Yet, no matter how much the hair suffers externally, it continues to grow.

How Does Hair Shows The Signs Of Aging?

Most of the aging process occurs internally. These changes manifest in the form of hair loss (alopecia), hair thinning, lack of strength and vibrancy. The most evident sign of aging is when hair growth slows down and the follicles shut down. We can start seeing some of these major changes as we enter our 40's and beyond.

What Is The Aging Process?

To understand the aging process, it’s important to review the hair growth cycle. There are three known hair growth phases: Anagen, Catagen and Telogen.

The Anagen phase:
Also known as the growing phase. In this phase, most of the hair follicles (about 80-90%) are “nurturing” the growing hairs.

· Hair grows continuously (about 1/2” per month) for about 2-8 years, depending on genetics. Women with a shorter Anagen phase may never see their hair grow longer than they would desire.

· In this phase, hair receives the most nutrients and minerals and as result hair condition is at its best and normal levels of sebum production is at its highest. Sebum is an oily substance, supremely important because it protects hair against dryness and brittleness.

The Catagen Phase:
Also known as the transitional phase. In this phase, the hair is still connected to the follicle, but it's no longer growing. It lasts about 2-4 weeks and it signals the end of the Anagen Phase and the beginning of the Telogen Phase.

Telogen Phase:
Also known as the resting phase and it’s the final phase of the hair cycle. It lasts for about 3 months, culminating in the shedding of some hair strands (about 50-150 strands). But, don’t panic, new hair will emerge and the cycle will repeat itself until your hair follicles age.

What Happens When The Follicles Shut Down?
They shut down and the production of new hair is halted. several factors can accelerate hair loss (temporarily or permanently). These may include thyroid disease, chemotherapy, stress, malnutrition, crash diets, and hormonal changes.

What Steps Should I Take to Handle These Changes and Maintain Healthy and Strong Hair?

· At your 20's, your hair is at its best condition. To keep it healthy, follow a wholesome diet and minimize the use of chemicals and hot tools.

· At your 30's, you might start to see gradual and subtle changes in your hair condition. If you were good to your hair in your 20's, these changes may be delayed. If you do see these gradual changes, then you need to focus on treating your hair like the most expensive fabric. Avoid chemical over processing and always indulge your hair by treating it with nourishing masks (at least twice a month). Please read How to keep your scalp and hair healthy.

· At your 40's , You'll probably see decline in melanin production (low melanin levels equals grey hair) and thinner hair strands.

· At your 50's, you may experience hair loss or thinning. Thinning of the hair occurs when the follicles shrink, leading to a smaller hair diameter. If you’re seeing these changes earlier in your life, by all means, consult your general doctor. This could be an indication of a medical condition. Please read How to promote hair growth.

Encourage the growth of healthier and thicker hair with regular stimulating scalp massage

and FDA approved laser combs (Hairmax.com). To Promote growth and strand thickness, use quality hair care such as: