Differences in aging hair between different races and ethnicities

Although aging is an inevitable biological process with many influencing factors leading to visible changes in hair, there is limited literature examining the characteristics of aging hair across breeds. Now, a new study describes the unique characteristics of aging hair among different ethnicities that the authors say will help take a culturally sensitive approach when making recommendations for preventing lifelong hair damage.

Among the results: the appearance of graying of hair varies by race, with the average age of Caucasians being between 30 and 30 years, that of Asians in their late thirties and that of Africans between their forties. Caucasians and Asians typically experience damage to the distal hair shaft, while African Americans see damage occurring closer to the hairline. Postmenopausal changes include decreased anagen hairs (active or growing) in the frontal scalp, lower growth rates, and smaller hair diameters.

Like skin, hair aging includes both intrinsic aging, which includes natural physiological changes that occur over time, and extrinsic aging, or changes associated with environmental exposures and physical stress caused. through daily grooming.

Despite a similar chemical composition, the structural properties of hair vary among different ethnicities, and therefore, hair aging differs as well. As the population ages and becomes more diverse, there is a growing need to understand the process of hair aging in different hair types. “

Neelam Vashi, MD, Corresponding Author, Associate Professor of Dermatology, Boston University School of Medicine, and Director of the Boston University Cosmetic and Laser Center at Boston Medical Center

Researchers searched 69 publications to review what is known about changes in hair structure over time, focusing on differences in hair aging by ethnicity. Information regarding hair structure, aging characteristics and responses to extrinsic damage as well as differences between races and ethnicities was gathered.

According to researchers, the role of hair in both protection and cosmetic enhancement makes it incredibly important for physical and mental well-being. “A thorough understanding of the unique characteristics of aging hair among different races and ethnicities is essential for the appropriate management of mature patients,” adds Vashi.

These results appear online in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.