The Best Haircare Routine for Women Over 40

As we get older, our hair changes—it might feel drier, thinner, or less full of life than it used to. But with the right routine, you can keep your hair looking healthy, strong, and full of shine at any age. At Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio, we work with many women who want to maintain their hair’s vitality, and I’m here to share my top tips to help you do just that.

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 it’s important to use a moisturising shampoo that cleans without stripping.

Look for ingredients like:
✔ Argan oil – Keeps hair soft and shiny
✔ Keratin – Strengthens weak strands
✔ Hyaluronic acid – Helps lock in moisture

I always recommend washing your hair 2-3 times a week rather than every day. This helps retain natural oils, keeping your hair nourished.

2. Always Condition Your Hair

Conditioner is a must! It helps keep hair smooth, soft, and manageable. When applying conditioner:

• 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, causing breakage. If you love styling your hair, make sure you always use a heat protection spray.

I also suggest:
💡 Blow-drying on a low-heat setting
💡 Air-drying your hair when possible
💡 Using high-quality styling tools that protect your hair

4. Keep Your Scalp Healthy

A healthy scalp means stronger, healthier hair. Here’s what I recommend:
✔ Scalp massage – Do this for a few minutes daily to boost circulation.
✔ Use a scalp scrub or exfoliating shampoo – Once a week to remove buildup.
✔ Apply a 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 & nuts – Full of healthy fats that add shine.
🥚 Eggs & spinach – Packed with protein and iron for strength.
🐟 Salmon & seeds – Rich in omega-3 to keep hair hydrated.

And of course, drink plenty of water to keep your hair (and scalp) hydrated!

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 your hair every 6-8 weeks helps keep it healthy by getting rid of split ends. If you love your length, ask for a light trim or ‘dusting’—this keeps your hair looking fresh without taking off too much.

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 look.

A professional colourist (like our team at Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio!) can help you choose the best shade to suit your skin tone and lifestyle.

9. Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase

If you’ve never tried a silk or satin pillowcase, now’s the time! Unlike cotton, silk helps prevent frizz and breakage, so you wake up with smoother, shinier hair.

10. Use Professional Haircare Products

Your hair deserves the best. At Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio, we only use premium brands like Shed, L’Oréal Professional, and Quint:essential Vegan Colour because they keep hair healthy while delivering gorgeous results. If you’re unsure which products are right for you, just ask—I’m always happy to recommend the best options based on your hair type and lifestyle.

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 some personalised advice or a refresh for your style, book an appointment at Nicolas Ablitt Hair Studio. We’d love to help you keep your hair looking its absolute best!

See you in the salon soon!

Nicolas 😊

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