Does hair type change over time?

Written By:

Debra Bjorklund

Theory Specialist

Yes, hair type does change over time.

Why does hair change over time?

Most of us can recall a time when our hair texture was thick and rich with color.  Our hair goes through changes as we age. There are many reasons why hair type changes occur on all hair types both male and females. Birth, puberty, metaphase, menopause, and pregnancy. Unbalanced hormones such as progesterone and estrogen can be a main factor as we age and hair our hair becomes thinner. Hair growth slows down when our hormones levels drop in production.  Other factors would include all chemical and thermal hair services which can damage the hair shaft.

Most of us have experimented with hair color changes throughout our life and purchased all the latest heat styling tools to straighten and curl our valuable follicles. Overuse of tools and overuse of chemicals can make hair dry, brittle and prone to damage. Hair changes significantly from birth and throughout each decade. No matter what your age you will most likely experience your hair type change over your twenties, thirties, forties, and fifties. Hair growth cycles are affected by natural contributing factors which include genetics, hormones and age. Other factors would include all chemical and thermal hair services which can damage the hair shaft. Hair growth cycles are affected by natural and chemical factors that include all chemical and thermal hair services which can damage the hair shaft.

Let’s explore the science of daily hair growth and shedding cycle which happens during the 3 phases of hair growth and how our type changes naturally and chemically

During the first phase, which is known as the ANAGEN (growth) phase, new cells are activity forming in the hair follicle until new hair is produced. Phase two is the CATAGEN (transition) phase, which signals the first phase of hair growth is over. The third phase is the TELOGEN (final) phase. This is the growth cycle where the natural hair sheds and then signals to begin the anagen (growth) phase again. Only 10% of the hair is left on the scalp after the entire growth cycle which repeats itself ONCE every 4 or 5 years.  Medical and health issues can trigger hormones such as testosterone and estrogen that can become unbalanced can be a main factor of hair type changes.

As we age our hair types also change during Acquired Cainites, which is the technical term for GREY and is the result of genetics which visually confirms the loss of natural melanin pigment and will change hair type over time.

If you are experiencing hair type changes, please consult with your licensed cosmetologist and/or your doctor for guidance. Your hairstylist can assist in creating a hair regime which could include hair treatment and products along with thermal and chemical plan for promoting healthier hair during hair type changes.