Getting to the root of thinning hair: 'If our hair’s off, we don’t feel right'

A good hair day can set us up for whatever challenges lie ahead, but just as our hormones affect the quality of our skin, so too do they affect our hair. Sarah Finnan speaks to the experts about how to age-proof your tresses and keep them in tip-top shape

Hair loss is more common in women who are under-eating Picture: iStock 

For many women, hair is armour. It’s confidence, creativity, and identity wrapped into one. A good hair day can be transformative, washing your hair cathartic — and don’t get me started on the mood-lifting magic of a curly blow-dry.

Unfortunately, thinning hair and hair loss are often unwelcome side effects of getting older. Research suggests that around 40% of women will show signs of hair loss by age 50, and fewer than 45% will reach 80 with a full head of hair.