Worried your hair is dating you? Reverse the effects of time for that magnificent mane at any age.
by paul aguirre
WHAT’S YOUR DAMAGE?
Let’s face it: hair goes through a lot over time. Due to exposure to the sun, chemicals in hair dyes or styling products, and general ‘wear-and-tear,’ hair becomes more prone to spilt-ends and breakage. ‘Stray grays’ are also a sign of aging hair, meaning follicles aren’t producing melanin, which is also followed by a decrease in strength and thickness. Colour treatments also have a large effect on hair quality and appearance, and without proper aftercare, can damage the cuticle and leave strands brittle, dry and limp. The environment also plays a big role in hair health: oxygen in air and water, paired with heat and rays from the sun, causes colour-treated hair to fade faster due to a process called oxidation.
YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT?
Why eat spinach? Because your hair loves it. Spinach is high in vitamins A and C and folate. It’s also a good source of riboflavin, vitamin B-6, calcium, iron and magnesium. The plant compounds in spinach may boost your immune system and may help keep your tresses to die for.
KEEP IT IN LINE: NATURAL CONSIDERATIONS
Let’s start with the basics: shampoo as required. Due to a slowing of essential oil production with age, opt for washing every other day. For shampoo, look for pomegranate* and Moringa Seed* extracts that can help remove build-up from over-expose to the elements. Another key? Conditioner: opt for one with tea tree oil or chamomile to refresh and replenish hair.
Aging by the decade
- 20’s At its peak, hair might seem invincible. Lay the foundations now and try not to tease, over-brush or use multiple styling products at once.
- 30’s Sun protection in hair products is yet to become standard. A new trend:
post-exposure products with protein that fortify hair shafts like Soy Amino acids and Soy Protein*.
- 40’s Keep it simple. Ease into a regime that minimizes chemical processes, and consider cutting back on tight rollers and braids that can pull on hair and can affect roots permanently.
- 50+ Stay strong and look for ingredients like coconut and Sunflower oil* that are gentle and rich on hair that’s seen a few days.
