Many of us find ourselves facing the challenges of midlife hair changes. Common issues include hair thinning, decreased quality, and increased breakage. Last year, I made matters worse by inadvertently dropping a heavy stone on my head, which further exacerbated my hair woes.
The Impact of Weight Loss on Hair Quality
Rapid weight loss can also lead to noticeable hair thinning. My hair became noticeably thinner on the sides and around the temples, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced diet for overall health and hair quality.
The Role of Hormones in Hair Health
Trichologist Anabel Kingsley explains that hair follicles age just like skin. Hormonal imbalances, particularly the decline in estrogen levels and the relative increase in androgens, play a significant role in hair loss and changes in density.
Philip Kingsley clinics emphasize the importance of scalp health, stress management, and a nutritious diet for hair health. Nutritional deficiencies in protein, iron, vitamin B12, and zinc can contribute to hair issues.
Anabel advises against restrictive diets, especially those low in carbohydrates, which are essential for providing energy to rapidly dividing hair cells. She emphasizes that proteins act as building blocks for hair, while carbohydrates facilitate their growth.
Philip Kingsley offers the Density Amino Acid Protein Booster (£33 for 120 capsules, philipkingsley.co.uk) and the Density Healthy Hair Complex (£33 for 60 capsules, philipkingsley.co.uk), which includes essential vitamins and minerals often found to be deficient in clients at their clinics.
Weight loss made my hair puny at the sides and around the temples, writes HANNAH BETTS
Winter Hair Thinning
Shabir Daya, co-founder of Victoria Health, highlights another factor often overlooked: winter hair thinning. This occurs due to the combination of cold weather, dry air, and reduced sunlight, which can lead to vitamin D deficiencies. These factors contribute to hair thinning, dry scalp, and breakage.
Shabir recommends biotin (vitamin B7) as a solution for winter hair thinning, which can be found naturally in foods such as egg yolks, nuts, soybeans, and bananas. Solgar’s Biotin 5,000mcg (£22.50 for 50 capsules, victoriahealth.com) and Superior Hair (£33 for 90 capsules, victoriahealth.com) are two recommended options. The latter also contains zinc and copper, essential nutrients for hair health.
Topical Solutions for Hair Growth
For topical treatments, TYPEBEA’s G1 Overnight Boosting Peptide Serum (£43, sephora.co.uk) is a highly recommended product by beauty experts. This serum is proven to reduce hair loss by 60 percent in just three months, thanks to its key ingredient, Baicapil, a botanical complex that stimulates hair cell growth.
My hairdresser also suggested Living Proof Scalp Care Density Serum (£54, cultbeauty.co.uk), which promises to promote hair density and inhibit gray hair growth. It contains the Anti-Grey Complex, an antioxidant and amino acid blend designed to protect hair from premature graying.
After a few months of use, I noticed a significant improvement in hair density, glossiness, and overall appearance. The product appears to be effective, especially when used consistently.
Short-Term Hair Solutions
Supplements and serums naturally take time to show results. In the meantime, Shabir Daya recommends Color Wow Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer (£24, victoriahealth.com), a product that offers instant volume to sparse hair. A 62-year-old tester enthusiastically praised Revolution Hair R-Peptide 4×4 Leave-In Restore Mask (£9.60, revolutionbeauty.com) for its ability to dramatically transform thinning hair.
I personally favor a body-building shampoo and conditioner like UKLash UKHair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner (£12 each, sephora.co.uk). Additionally, the Moroccanoil and Sam McKnight duo, Viviscal, Dove Pro-Age, and L’Oreal’s Extraordinary Clay Rebalancing range are all great options for those looking to improve their hair’s health.
For instant color correction, Josh Wood Colour Root Smudge (£15, boots.com) can be a morale booster for those with sparse scalps.
Race You to It!
The Ordinary’s GF 15% Solution (£13.50, boots.com) is a recent hit, offering growth factors that play a vital role in skin repair. These peptides strengthen the skin barrier and promote a healthier appearance.
My Icon of the Week: Davina McCall
At 57, Davina McCall has embraced makeup for its ability to enhance her appearance. She started using makeup daily at 45, and now believes a simple application of mascara and lipstick is essential for her confidence.
Davina swears by Ilia Lip Sketch Hydrating Lip Crayon (£26, sephora.co.uk) and Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara (£32). She also uses Estee Lauder’s DayWear Sheer Tint Release Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Moisturiser SPF15 (£54) to give her skin a youthful glow.
A Cosmetic Craving
Lisa Eldridge, a renowned makeup artist and an award-winning national treasure, has introduced a new product that is touted as revolutionary. Her Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil (£27, lisaeldridge.com) is designed to camouflage spots and broken capillaries, lift shadows, and achieve a flawless, skin-like finish.
This pencil features a 1.5mm tip for precision application, a gel formula for seamless blending, and is waterproof, making it a versatile tool for everyday use.
Body Boosts for Midlife
E45 Emollient Shower Cream (£6.49, boots.com) is a must-have for those with dry or sensitive skin. This gentle formula actively moisturizes your skin, preventing irritation from scalding showers on icy days.
