It’s well established that skincare should change as you age—but what about haircare? According to celebrity hairstylist Raphaël Perrier, the hair you’re growing at 25 and 40 is completely different, which means how you care for it should change, too. Here’s his guide to what you should be focusing on at every age, so you can continue to grow strong, shiny, healthy hair.
In your 20s: Prevention
“The twenties are often the best decade for hair,” Perrier says, adding that it’s also when people like to experiment. Whether it’s frequent coloring or the sometimes intensive use of hot tools, hair can become fragile. Here’s how to take care of your hair in your 20s.
- “Use a mild shampoo and moisturizing conditioner to avoid drying out due to external aggression.”
- “Reduce the use of heated tools and apply a thermal protector before every single use.”
- “Massage the scalp regularly to stimulate blood circulation.”
- “For coloring and highlights, use professional products to limit damage.”
In your 30s: Nutrition
This is a stage of life typically more prone to the appearance of hormonal imbalances, which means hair becomes even more fragile. Impacted by stress or pollution, it loses shine and can fall out more consistently.
- “Incorporate nourishing masks once a week to strengthen hair and prevent breakage.”
- “Rely on natural oils, such as argan or jojoba, to nourish lengths.”
- “In case of density loss, use scalp-stimulating products with keratin or biotin.”
- “Get a trim every 2 to 3 months.”
In your 40s: Strength and Density
As we enter our forties, our hair can become thinner and less dense. The production of melanocytes (skin cells that synthesize melanin) diminishes, leading to the appearance of gray hair.
- “Boost density, by integrating volumizing or strengthening products that contain ceramides or proteins.”
- “Apply nourishing serums to lengths and ends.”
- “Eat a diet rich in omega-3, iron, and zinc for healthy hair.”
- For gray hair: “Use specific shampoos to neutralize yellow highlights and add shine.”
In your 50s: Revitalization
Mature hair is more prone to losing elasticity, which can cause breakage.
- “Choose a collection that focuses on mature hair. It should be enriched with collagen or hyaluronic acid to restore vitality.”
- “Integrate scalp massages with oils to stimulate growth and strengthen roots.”
- “Choose a cut that brings volume and structure to refined hair.”
- “Favor gentle coloring techniques to avoid weakening your hair strands.”
