Thick, full hair is always in style, but as we enter the over-50 category, it’s not always easy to achieve—and even harder to discuss. Enter menopause, and there’s even more information (and misinformation) swirling, making it incredibly difficult to navigate. “Just like with our skin, hair changes as we get into our 50s,” says Louisville, KY dermatologist Tami Buss Cassis, MD. “It’s a thing and, unfortunately, we haven’t always been so great talking openly about it.” Below, Dr. Buss Cassis shares her personal, derm-approved checklist for what she considers for herself and her patients struggling with thinning hair.
Change Is Certain
It’s probably no secret that hair and skin change as we age. But Dr. Buss Cassis points out that, historically, the skin story gets a bit more play in the beauty world. “Just like the skin, it is important for men and women to pay attention to their hair,” she says, offering this positive news and a supplement she personally swears by: “We have made serious progress in understanding great vitamins that do not contain higher levels of biotin to help men and women with hair growth. My favorite is Xtresse. It is two easy gummies a day. Within six weeks, you will see a difference in the overall quality of your hair.”
Expert Advice Is Vital
This may go without saying, but it is also important to get an evaluation from a board-certified dermatologist as your hair begins to change. “Thankfully, we have fantastic topical prescription medications, but we also have oral medications if needed,” says Dr. Buss Cassis.
Go ‘Wash Light’
Sounds simple, but Dr. Buss Cassis says easy tips like washing your hair less and using fewer products on your hair are solid advice for hair-thinning prevention and should be followed as we age. “I also love using an oil in my hair the day before it needs to be washed,” she adds.
Expect the Unexpected
Dr. Buss Cassis says that, as we age, we will likely require more medical procedures, such as colonoscopies and joint replacements. “When you have a procedure that requires anesthesia, it is very possible you will notice an increase in shedding three-to-six months after the procedure,” she says, offering this positive take: “Telogen Effluvium [excessive hair shedding] is common but correctable, and treatments are available. The days of worrying about losing all your hair are over.”
