How Aging Affects Hair Thickness and Tips to Manage It

Finding a few strands in your brush or sink every day is normal. But if your hair seems to be thinning noticeably, aging or related factors could be the reason. As we age, hair naturally becomes finer and sparser due to changes in hair growth cycles and strand diameter.

While this process is normal, some factors like genetics, hormone shifts, and nutrient deficiencies can worsen thinning or accelerate hair loss. Here’s a closer look at why hair gets thinner with age and expert tips to manage it.

Why Hair Thins With Age

1. Genetics

Hereditary hair loss, such as male or female pattern baldness, can make thinning more pronounced. Genetics may also lead to earlier hair loss, with changes sometimes starting in the teens or twenties, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

2. Hormonal Changes

For people assigned female at birth, menopause can trigger significant hair thinning. “During menopause, estrogen and progesterone decrease, which can lead to a relative increase in androgens, hormones that can shrink hair follicles,” explains dermatologist Jeffrey Hsu, MD.

3. Stress

Prolonged stress can elevate cortisol levels, negatively affecting hair growth. Even recovering from an illness like COVID-19 can lead to temporary hair shedding, says Dr. Hsu.

4. Medications

Drugs for conditions like cancer, arthritis, depression, and high blood pressure often list hair loss as a side effect. These health concerns also become more common with age.

5. Thyroid Disorders

An overactive or underactive thyroid can disrupt hair growth, though proper treatment typically reverses the issue.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies

“Aging often leads to reduced appetite or less varied diets, increasing the risk of protein and nutrient deficiencies that impact hair health,” says Rohit Kakar, MD.

How to Address Thinning Hair

Thinning hair doesn’t have to feel permanent. From improving your diet to exploring medical treatments, these steps can help you regain volume and confidence.

1. See a Dermatologist

A dermatologist can diagnose the type of hair loss and recommend targeted treatments. “Thinning due to thyroid disorders, for instance, may improve with hormone therapy, while post-chemotherapy hair loss might benefit from cooling caps,” says Dr. Hsu.

2. Adjust Your Hair Care Routine

• Wash hair every other day or a few times weekly instead of daily.

• Minimize heat styling and opt for gentle dyes if coloring your hair.

• Visit a salon professional who uses protective systems like Olaplex.

3. Boost Nutrient Intake

Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, biotin, zinc, and magnesium. If needed, consider supplements like Nutrafol, which targets multiple causes of hair thinning, recommends Dr. Hsu.

4. Try Thickening Products

Over-the-counter products like OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo or Kristin Ess Hair Instant Lift Thickening Spray can enhance fullness.

For regrowth, consider Rogaine (minoxidil) or LED light therapy devices like HairMax. “These treatments work best when started early and used consistently, but results may take months,” advises Dr. Kakar.

5. Explore Prescription Treatments

• Medications: Finasteride is an oral option that slows hair loss for people AMAB but carries potential side effects, including sexual dysfunction and increased prostate cancer risk.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This in-office treatment uses plasma from your blood to stimulate hair follicles, with promising results for some patients.

The Bottom Line

Thinning hair is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to define your look. By understanding the underlying causes and taking proactive steps, you can improve hair density and health.

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