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I don’t know why, but ever since I turned 50 I’ve had to change my shampoo. My hairline is actually receding and just about every shampoo I’ve tried leaves me with scalp skin pimples.
It took some trial and error, but I finally found the best shampoo and conditioner for hair over 50. Of course, what works for me may not work for you. The trick is to find the right shampoo to treat your hair care concerns.
In this post, I’ll share the one shampoo and conditioner that doesn’t give me a weird skin reaction on my scalp.
I’ll share shampoo and conditioner suggestions for a variety of hair concerns. Whether you have dry hair, oily hair, or just want fuller hair, I’ve got you covered.
Our Hair Ages As We Do!
As we age, our hair undergoes significant changes that can impact its appearance and health.
For example, hair thinning becomes more common, often resulting in fine hair that lacks the volume and luster of youth.
Hormonal shifts (like the ones I’m having as I write this blog post) can lead to a dry scalp, causing discomfort and contributing to the overall decline in hair quality.
In addition to the usual suspects (i.e. hot flashes, dryness, and wrinkles), you may notice your hair becoming drier, more brittle, and more prone to frizz, especially if it is gray.
It’s not just our hair that ages!
I don’t know about you, but everything seemed to start falling apart after I turned 50. I suddenly had aches and pains that I never had before.
Turns out things like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis are permanent.
If you want to keep your hair looking healthy and vital, you probably want to keep your whole body that way!
One of the best ways to do that is to keep active. Of course, that’s hard to do if your feet hurt. Read: 15 Best Arch Support Sneakers for Women Over 50 for advice.
Which leads me to the grays
Gray hair is a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to tolerate. I envy the over 50 beauties who embrace their grays and look as cool and classy as they ever did.
Unfortunately, gray or white hair can come with its own challenges.
At this point, no matter what I do with my hair, it’s clear to me that I need to lightweight products that don’t dull my hair, avoid harsh ingredients in my shampoo, and find a product line that’s healthy for my scalp.
Recommended ingredients for shampoo and conditioner for hair over 50
When looking for the best shampoos and hair products for hair loss, it’s essential to choose formulations that are specifically designed to address thinning hair and promote scalp health.
We’re always reading about the things we should avoid, whether it’s in our food, environment, or products.
In this case, there are various ingredients found in anti-aging shampoo that can be beneficial.
Key ingredients, for example, often include antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which help protect hair from environmental damage.
Moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid and natural oils (such as argan or coconut oil) provide hydration and improve elasticity.
Additionally, proteins like keratin strengthen the hair shaft, while botanical extracts can promote scalp health and stimulate hair growth.
The following are examples of quality ingredients you might find in your shampoo:
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is often found in topical treatments.This clinically proven ingredient stimulates hair growth. Some shampoos incorporate minoxidil as part of a comprehensive hair care routine.
Biotin (Vitamin B7)
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluable B vitamin that plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
In terms of hair health, biotin is often promoted as a supplement for strengthening hair and promoting growth.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida.
Its berries have been used in herbal medicine to support prostate health. However, when it comes to hair care, palmetto extra is believed to help inhibit the hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) linked to hair loss.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties than can benefit scalp health.
Caffeine
May help stimulate hair follicles and improve circulation to the scalp. Research on caffeine’s effects on hair growth includes a review in the Journal of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery.
There, they discuss caffeine’s potential to promote hair growth by enhancing blood circulation and counteracting DHT.
Ketoconazole
An antifungal ingredient that can help with scalp health and is sometimes found in hair loss shampoos.
Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Improves blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote hair growth.
Peptides
Peptides can strengthen hair while nourishing hair follicles. The peptides commonly found in shampoos include keratin pepties, collagen peptides, copper peptides, rice peptides, and soy peptides.
Common Ingredients Found in shampoos and hair conditioners
Drug store shampoos and conditioners typically contain a variety of common ingredients.
They may not be particularly dangerous for most people when used as directed, but they also might not help with your hair issues.
TIP: If you have any sensitivies or allergies, you may find ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate harsh. Watch out for those.
Typical Ingredients Found in Common Shampoos and Conditioners
The following list is compiled of various ingredients you may find in your shampoo or conditioner.
Antioxidants
Ingredients like vitamin E and green tea extract help protect hair from environmental damage and keep it healthy.
Color Depositing Agents
Some conditioners may contain pigments that enhance gray or silver tones.
Conditioning Agents
Like cocamidopropyl betaine for added moisture.
Emollients
Ingredients like argan oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter help to smooth and soften gray hair, which can be coarser and more prone to frizz.
Humectants
Humectants like glycerin draw moisture
Fatty Alcohols
Fatty alcohols like cetyl or stearyl alcohol are sometimes usef for their moisturizing propertieis.
Fragrance
Synthetic or natural scents to enhance the product’s appeal.
Hydrating Ingredients
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid can provide deep hydration to combat dryness.
Moisturizing Agents
Ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and panthenol are often included to provide hydration and prevent dryness.
pH Balancers
Ingredients like citric acid can help maintain the right pH level for healthier hair.
Preservatives
Like parabens or phenoxyethanol to prevent microbial growth.
Proteins
Hydrolyzed keratin or silk proteins can strengthen and repair the hair, helping to reduce breakage.
Surfactants
Such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) for cleansing.
Sulfate-Free Cleansers
Many formulas avoid harsh sulfates to prevent stripping natural oils and to maintain moisture.
Thickeners
Such as xanthan gum or hydroxyethylcellulose to give the product a desirable texture.
UV Filters
Protecting hair from UV damage helps maintain color and shine.
Purple or Silver Pigments
These help neutralize yellow tones in gray hair, keeping it bright and vibrant.
Colorants
Dyes to provide an appealing appearance.
Interested in the Other Beauty Bloggers Out There?
I’ve created a blog post called 65 Successful Beauty Bloggers Over 50 that you might be interested in reading.
The women who run these blogs are pretty impressive. Check it out and make sure to bookmark your favorite.
Heading Out With Your New Hairstyle?
Once your hair is healthy and vibrant, you might consider getting a style update to round out your new look.
If so, read 20 Beautiful Hairstyles for Over 50 and Overweight
Not your thing?
That’s okay, maybe you’re more interested in 47 Stylish Outfits to Wear to a Wedding Over 50.
Try to Avoid These Commonly Found Ingredients in Shampoo and Conditioner
When choosing hair care products, it’s a good idea to read labels carefully and consider your specific hair type and scalp condition.
If you have sensitivities or allergies, patch testing new products is always a wise approach.
Sulfates
Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), can be harsh and strip hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that may disrupt hormone function and have been linked to various health concerns. Many brands now offer paraben-free options.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
These ingredients can be irritating and have been associated with health risks. Compounds like quaternium-15 and DMDM hydantoin release formaldehyde over time.
Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and irritation for some individuals. It’s advisable to look for products that specify “fragrance-free” or “unscented.”
Phthalates
Often used in synthetic fragrances, phthalates can disrupt hormone function and are best avoided.
Alcohols
Certain types of alcohols, like isopropyl alcohol, can be very drying to hair and scalp, leading to irritation.
Silicones
While silicones can provide temporary shine and smoothness, buildup can occur over time, potentially weighing hair down and causing dullness.
Colorants
Artificial dyes can irritate sensitive skin and are often unnecessary.
Mineral Oil and Petrolatum
These substances can create buildup on the hair and scalp and may lead to clogged pores.
I finally found the best shampoo and conditioner for hair over 50!
It really came as a shock to me that the products I’ve always loved were suddenly turning on me.
The first thing I noticed was the development of acne like cysts on my scalp.
At first I pass it off as “nothing”. I took the time to really rinse the products our of my hair, thinking maybe it was due to some build-up. But that didn’t work.
I went to the drugstore and bought different types of shampoo claiming to be more “natural” than other products.
Still, nothing worked.
It was only after visiting Glamour Secrets, a boutique store that sells professional hair care, hair appliances, skin care & more, when I found the shampoo and conditioner that finally solved my problem.
My #1 Shampoo and Conditioner for Over 50 Women
Marie Nila Head & Hair Health shampoo and conditioner offers soothing Aloe Vera for dry and itchy scalps. One hundred precent vegan and sulfate/paraban free.
Why it’s so great
I don’t think I can ever switch my shampoo or conditioner to anything else at this point.
I went to my hair stylist a few weeks ago and whatever shampoo she used left itchy cyst-like bumps on my scalp. Maria Nila products do not leave me with this problem.
After such a long time of trying different shampoos, I’m happy to say I have finally found the one that works for me.
Maria Nila Head & Hair Health
WINNER for itchy scalp!
- Soothing aloe vera
- Vegan & Sulfate Free
- Paraben Free
- Light floral scent
- Calms dry, itchy scalp
- Formulated to stimulate hair growth
- Allergen free and developed for sensitive skin
More Best Shampoo and Conditioner For Hair Over 50
I’m going to stick to my new fave shampoo and conditioner set by Maria Nila. Why? Because it works for me.
The following are other highly reocmmended shampoos and conditioners to try.
Nioxin System Kits
Nioxin System Kit
For natural hair with progressed & advanced thinning hair
- 3 piece set
- Suggested for thinning hair
- Cleansing and Moisturing
- Helps remove sebum, fatty acids, and other environmental residue
Pura D’or Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Shampoo
Pura D’or Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Shampoo
Hair therapy
- Clinically tested
- Suggested for thinning hair
- Herbal DHT blocker
- Color safe
Revita Hair Stimulating Shampoo
Revita Hair
Stimulating shampoo
- Hair growth shampoo
- Contains Biotin, Caffeine, Antioxidants, hydrating molecules, and amino acids.
- Cleansing and Moisturing
- Helps remove sebum, fatty acids, and other environmental residue
Kerastase Densifiqu Bain Densite Shampoo
Kerastase Densifiqu Bain Densite Shampoo & Conditioner
For fine, thin, and thinning hair
- Thickening & Strengthing
- with Hyaluronic Acid for fine, thin, and thinning hair.
- Complete regimen available
Viviscal Gorgwous growth densifying shampoo
Viviscal Thickening Shampoo
For fine, thin, and thinning hair
- Formulated with Biotin
- Contains keratin
- Fortified with Marine Collagen and Seaweed Extract
- Strengthens hair and reduces breakage
Burt’s Bees Very Voluminizing Shampoo
Burt’s Bees Voluminizing Shampoo
with Pomegranate leaves
- Formulated with avocado oils to help detangle while adding softness
- Amino-rich and gentle
- Reduces frizz
- Free from sulphates, parabens, petrolatum, and synthetic fragrances
The Ordinary Multi-peptide serum
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum
For hair density
- Repairs and improves hair texture
- Designed for thinnin ghair
- Suitable for all hair types including curly or straight
- Unscented
Summary
There was a time when finding the best shampoo and conditioner for over 50 hair was nearly impossible.
These days, there’s a lot more variety and specialized shampoos available to help tame the issues that come with aging hair. Whether it’s sensitive skin, thinning hair, or dull and lackluster grays, you can find an affordable solution.
The products listed here are sold through Amazon. You might want to consult with your hair stylist before making a decision. Then again, you might do like I did and jump right in.
I can’t tell you how much I love Maria Nila for my itchy and sensitive scalp. It takes that irritation away while fortifying and strengthening my hair.
Good luck with whichever product you choose. And remember, it may take a little trial and error. What works for me may not have the same effect on you.
