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The question

"I recently spotted an anti-aging shampoo at my local drugstore. Is this just a gimmick? Does hair really age?"

The answer

Everything ages and our hair is no different. As we get older, our bodies naturally slow down: circulation and hormonal levels decrease, which affects the look, feel and health of our locks.

So you can see the difference between the young, bouncy tresses of a 25-year-old (whose body supplies nutrients in fruitful abundance) and a person who is 10 years older (who might be experiencing thinning, more grey and an overall lack of lustre).

Can you prevent this from happening? Not entirely, but you can slow down the visible effects of aging on hair, just as you can with the rest of your body. A good diet rich in essential fatty acids will help to support healthy hair growth even as your body's natural processes start to dip. "Anti-aging" shampoos can also help if they contain less surfactants and stripping agents than your current hair-care routine.

However, steer clear of sulphates to reduce damage to fine and thinning hair and be sure to use a moisture mask or treatment on the hair once a week to help top up depleted nutrients that your hair needs as the years start to accumulate.

Bahar Niramwalla is a celebrity makeup artist and beauty expert who has appeared on CTV, Global TV and City. Follow her on Twitter: @baharniramwalla. Have a beauty question? E-mail style@globeandmail.com.

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