TLDR Older people's hair cuticles get more easily damaged and lose protective oils, especially in their 40s and 50s.
The study investigated age-dependent changes in hair cuticle damage among Japanese females aged 10 to 70. It found that the dominant damage pattern shifts from type L (cell membrane complex splitting) to type E (endocuticle damage) with aging. Additionally, the cuticle's resistance to grooming stress decreases over time, and the reduction of fatty acid 18-MEA on the hair surface accelerates in older hair. These changes contribute to increased cuticle fragility and deterioration of hair surface properties, particularly noticeable in individuals in their 40s and 50s.
Cited in this study
6 / 6 results
61 citations
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July 2012 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Caucasian women's hair appears thickest in their 20s, with perceived thinning after mid-30s due to both decreasing density and diameter.
25 citations
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December 2011 in “Surface and interface analysis” Bleaching hair causes significant damage by breaking down proteins and fatty acids.
19 citations
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January 2011 in “Surface and interface analysis” 18-MEA is essential for hair's water resistance, and a conditioner with 18-MEA and SPDA can restore it.
23 citations
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January 2011 in “Surface and interface analysis” Chemical treatments and UV radiation severely damage the lipid layer on hair.
234 citations
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February 2001 in “British Journal of Dermatology” FPHL affects hair density and diameter, causing visible hair loss in older women.
191 citations
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November 1959 in “Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences” Hair and wool have complex microscopic structures with microfibrils and varying cystine content.
