What I’m Doing Differently to My Hair in My 40s (and Why It’s Healthier Than Ever)

Your 20s and 30s are often about experimenting — trying new cuts, colors, and styles. By the time I hit my 40s, my relationship with my hair shifted. I started thinking less about chasing trends and more about keeping my hair healthy for the long run.

I’m someone who is somewhat “lazy” when it comes to beauty. I won’t spend much time on makeup, I keep my nails short and unpolished, and I won’t style my hair. But when it comes to health — for my skin, my hair, and even my nails — I’m diligent. I’ve realized that lasting beauty in your 40s and beyond comes from looking after the health of what you have, or at least that what I’m trying ou

Here’s what I’m doing differently now.

1. I’ve Let Go of the “Perfect Curl”

I used to spend far too much time coaxing every strand into the perfect curl pattern. Over-manipulating my hair not only eats up time, it stresses the strands. Now, I embrace my hair’s natural variations — the looser curls, the tighter coils, the bits that do their own thing. Not worrying about perfection has made my routine faster, my hair healthier, and me a lot happier.

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2. Moisture is My Non-Negotiable

As we age, our scalp produces less sebum, which means hair naturally gets drier. I’ve made moisturizing my strands a top priority — using hydrating conditioners, leave-ins, and oils to lock in moisture. This keeps my hair soft, shiny, and less prone to breakage.

Oiling my hair strands before my wash day has been a GAME CHANGER, here is how to do it

3. My Scalp Routine is Sacred

I’ve always been mindful of scalp health, but in my 40s, it’s essential. With age, hair follicles can weaken, and I’m prone to hair loss. I keep my scalp clean, stimulated, and nourished with regular cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and targeted oils. A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, thriving hair.

Three scalp care mistakes I’ll battle until people stop doing them. Are you guilty? Click to find out

4. I Prioritize Nutrition and Exercise

I no longer see hair as separate from overall health. The vitamins, minerals, and protein I get from a balanced diet — along with improved circulation from regular exercise — show up in my hair. Stronger, healthier strands truly start from the inside.

Ten (easy-to-access) superfoods for healthy hair

5. Minimal Styling, No Structural Changes

I avoid heat and chemical processes like coloring, bleaching, relaxers, or keratin treatments. These can damage the hair if not meticulously maintained. By keeping styling simple and natural, my hair stays healthy, hydrated, and resilient without constant upkeep.

I really try to keep objective opinions when it comes to hair care, but I got to say, I don’t like keratin treatments. Click to find out why

As you age, this set just becomes a non-negotiable to add into your routine. It elevates every step of your routine to lead you to your healthy hair goals Click to learn more

Final Thought

In my 40s, I’m not chasing trends or perfection. I focus on health — hair, skin, and nails — while keeping routines simple and manageable.