I work with a number of clients in their 40’s that have started to notice changes in their hair. The most common concerns include ‘my hair is SO dry now, and has started to fall out.’ ‘My hair doesn’t shine (like it used to) and I have no volume.’ And ‘my itchy scalp is driving me crazy but nothing is working.’

As a scientist and coach, I’ve personally moved through and delt with stress, thyroid, pregnancy/post-partum, and age related changes. In all of these midlife (and major life) moments, your hair and scalp may require additional targeted techniques and support. Hair naturally changes with age, and any hormonal shifts can speed this process up. There are easy (and free!) ways to help your hair and body during these times. Below are some science-backed tips and habits 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 comprehensive approach is key, and this includes hair products, styling techniques, and even the tools you use. As one example, I have found that the Panasonic Nanoe hair dryers substantially reduces frizzy and flyaway hair, far better than Dyson or T3 in my experience. In addition, consider:

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 are major diets. 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 makeup brushes and facecloths.

Virtual Hair Health and Wellness Coaching

You can trust that my recommendations are not based on trends, product hype, or one-size-fits-all routines. I take a personalized, science-backed approach to helping clients navigate common midlife hair concerns such as dryness, thinning, reduced shine, loss of volume, and an itchy scalp.

If you have started to notice subtle shifts in your hair or scalp health, the right support and small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference.

Ready to take a more informed and individualized approach to hair health in midlife? I invite you to contact me today.