Objective  

Characterize hair aging in women, independently of any form of alopecia

Methodology

• Comparative, observational study of 60 Caucasian women according to age (25-35 years old; 60-70 years old and ≥ 71 years old)
• Measurement of hair growth parameters in the vertex and occipital area (phototrichogram)
• Measurement of hair diameter and porosity in the two areas assessed (laser micrometer)
• Measurement of capillary resistance in the two zones under evaluation (extensometer)
• Standardized photographs

Results

• Total hair density and fine hair density (diameter <40μm) decrease significantly with age in the vertex and occipital area

• Hair growth at the vertex is significantly lower in women over 71 than in women in the 25-35 age group

• Hair resistance decreases significantly with age in both areas evaluated

• Hair porosity is significantly higher for women over 71 than for women in the 25-35 age group

Conclusion

• Hair aging is characterized by an overall decrease in hair density and diameter, and by changes in the hair's mechanical properties