The Best Haircare Routine for Women Over 40
Nicolas AblittSalon Director
Published
As we get older, our hair changes. It might feel drier, thinner, or less full of life than it used to. The good news is that with the right routine, you can keep your hair looking healthy, strong, and full of shine at any age.
At Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio in Corringham, Essex, we work with many women who want to maintain their hair's vitality. Here are the ten habits I recommend most often.
The short version
Wash less often with a hydrating shampoo, condition every time, protect from heat, look after your scalp, eat for hair health, brush gently, trim every 6 to 8 weeks, soften the colour, sleep on silk, and use professional products. Stick to most of these and the rest sorts itself out.
1. Choose a gentle, hydrating shampoo
One of the biggest changes I see in hair after 40 is dryness. Our scalps naturally produce less oil, so a moisturising shampoo that cleans without stripping is essential.
Look for ingredients like:
- Argan oil to keep hair soft and shiny
- Keratin to strengthen weak strands
- Hyaluronic acid to help lock in moisture
I always recommend washing your hair 2 to 3 times a week rather than every day. This helps retain natural oils and keeps the hair properly nourished.
2. Always condition your hair
Conditioner keeps hair smooth, soft, and manageable. When applying it:
- Focus on the mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots if your hair tends to get oily
- Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing
- Once a week, treat yourself to a deep conditioning mask for extra hydration
3. Protect your hair from heat
Blow-dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can weaken hair over time and cause breakage. If you love styling your hair, always use a heat protection spray.
A few simple habits help:
- Blow-dry on a low-heat setting
- Air-dry your hair when you can
- Use high-quality styling tools that protect the hair shaft
If you're using heat tools every day to fight frizz, it may be worth looking at a longer-term solution. Our Keratin and Extenso smoothing treatments can dramatically cut the time you spend with hot tools.
4. Keep your scalp healthy
A healthy scalp means stronger, healthier hair. Three things I recommend:
- Scalp massage for a few minutes daily to boost circulation
- Scalp scrub or exfoliating shampoo once a week to remove buildup
- Scalp serum if your scalp feels dry or irritated
5. Nourish your hair from the inside
What you eat plays a big role in how your hair looks and feels. Some of the best foods for strong, shiny hair include:
- Avocados and nuts for healthy fats that add shine
- Eggs and spinach for protein and iron
- Salmon and seeds for omega-3 to keep hair hydrated
Drink plenty of water too. Hair and scalp dehydrate the same way skin does.
6. Be gentle when brushing
The wrong brush can cause breakage, especially if your hair is finer than it used to be. I recommend:
- A soft bristle brush for gentle detangling
- A wide-tooth comb to prevent breakage when hair is wet
- Brushing from the ends up to avoid tugging
7. Get regular trims
Trimming every 6 to 8 weeks keeps hair healthy by getting rid of split ends. If you love your length, ask for a light trim or "dusting". It keeps the ends fresh without taking off any noticeable length.
8. Find the right hair colour
Many of my clients ask, "Should I go lighter as I get older?" The answer is different for everyone, but softer tones, natural highlights, or blended balayage can add depth and dimension for a more youthful finish.
A professional colourist can help you choose the best shade to suit your skin tone and lifestyle. We cover this in more detail in Salon vs At-Home Colour, and you'll find the latest looks in The Best Cut and Colour Trends.
9. Sleep on a silk pillowcase
If you've never tried a silk or satin pillowcase, it's worth it. Unlike cotton, silk helps prevent frizz and breakage, so you wake up with smoother, shinier hair. It's also kinder to skin, which is a quiet bonus.
10. Use professional haircare products
At Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio, we use premium brands like Shed, L'Oréal Professional, and Quint:essential Vegan Colour because they keep hair healthy while delivering proper results. If you're unsure which products suit your hair, ask at your next appointment. I'm always happy to recommend something based on your hair type and lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
How often should women over 40 wash their hair?
Two to three times a week is usually the sweet spot. Daily washing strips the natural oils that your scalp is already producing less of after 40, which can leave hair drier and more fragile.
Why does hair get drier after 40?
Hormonal changes around perimenopause and menopause reduce the amount of natural oil (sebum) the scalp produces. Hair also tends to lose density and pigment, both of which can make individual strands feel coarser and look drier.
Are heat protection sprays really necessary?
Yes, especially after 40. Hair that's already drier or thinner is more vulnerable to heat damage. A good heat protectant adds a barrier and can also smooth the cuticle, so styling lasts longer.
What's the best colour technique for hair over 40?
Soft, blended techniques like balayage and natural highlights tend to grow out beautifully and avoid the harsh regrowth line of a single-process colour. They also add the dimension that hair can lose with age. We'll match the shade to your skin tone at consultation.
Can I bring my own products in for the salon team to review?
Absolutely. Bring them along to your next appointment and we'll go through them together. Sometimes it's a small swap, sometimes it's a full refresh, but either way you'll leave with a routine that actually works for your hair.
Let's keep your hair looking its best
Caring for your hair after 40 doesn't have to be complicated. With the right shampoo, conditioner, scalp care, and regular trims, your hair can stay strong, shiny, and full of life for years to come.
If you'd like personalised advice or a refresh for your style, book an appointment at Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio. Most clients tell us they leave with hair that feels properly looked after, often for the first time in years.