Do you remember the time when you saw your first gray hair? You probably tried to hide it by stealth or cut it off. You may have tried hair dyes or natural ways to color your hair. But not everyone follows the hair care routine after a certain age. While embracing gray hair is great, don’t make it unhealthy or dull by not taking care of your hair. You can make your hair shiny even if you have crossed the 50 mark. All you have to do is follow some simple hair care tips.
Health Shots linked up with Noida-based dermatologist Dr Anupama Bisaria to find out how women over 50 can take care of gray hair.
He says the main reason why gray hair turns dull is oxidative damage to the hair due to UV rays. There is a lack of protective melanin, and that leaves the hair structure exposed to the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. Another reason why gray hair acquires a yellow tone is a diet that lacks protein and calcium. When women reach menopause, the absorption of calcium decreases even more, so the hair becomes weak and loses its shine.
Gray hair can also become smooth as with age, the oil glands produce less sebum, which is responsible for lubricating the hair and skin. This leads to dry patches and thus, you maintain dry hair.
Hair care tips for women over 50
Many times we neglect our hair and once the damage is done to the hair shaft, it cannot be reversed, says Dr. Bisaria. In fact, women also accept unhealthy hair as a result of menopause and do not make efforts to take care of it. The expert says that gray hair needs more care than black hair, so it is important to do a thorough maintenance every 15 days. When styling gray hair, the temperature of the hair styling product should be set to low as it tends to break. To avoid damage, here are some basic tips to follow!
1. Use a mild shampoo
To wash your hair, always choose a mild shampoo. You can choose SLS free shampoo. Sodium lauryl sulphate containing shampoos are effective for deep cleansing of hair, but can be harsh on colored hair, chemically treated hair and dry and brittle hair.
2. Use a good conditioner
Apply it after shampooing and leave the conditioner on for 5 to 7 minutes so that the protein penetrates the hair shaft and provides protection. She also uses a leave-in conditioner, as gray hair tends to look dry and frizzy. A hydrating hair mask can also work wonders.
3. Choose a serum
A serum that protects your hair from heat can be used if you prefer a heat style. Use a serum containing silicon or hair conditioners, suggests the expert. This way, your hair will be protected from heat and combing.
4. Cover your hair
In summer or winter, try to cover your hair with a scarf or hat, especially if you know you will be exposed to UV rays for a long time. Using a hair accessory will give you protection from sun damage.
Also, be gentle while combing your tresses to avoid hair fall, which is very common with aging. Gray or gray hair with a yellow tone is not attractive or healthy, so take care of your tresses.
