Getting to the root of ageing hair problem

WE spend a small fortune on lotions and potions to make the best of our skin and turn back time. But what about our crowning glory?

"As you get older your hair, just like your skin, will show signs of deterioration as it becomes thinner and more vulnerable," explains Edinburgh hairdresser Jason Miller. "Yet there is loads that can be done to counteract these aging effects."

So, chop years off your tresses with an anti-ageing makeover this summer.

VOLUME

Look at any glossy magazine and, chances are, you'll be confronted with pages upon pages of young beauties boasting full, bouncy and glossy hair. Limp hair just doesn't cut it. So, create the illusion of thicker, more voluminous hair through the clever use of key products and a great blow dry.

Inject as much volume into the roots by blasting hair upside down, before sectioning off the hair. Beginning at the back of the head, blow dry the hair using a vent brush while pointing the nozzle of the hair dryer down the hair shaft for added shine.

Give your locks a helping hand before the blast with some hard-working products. Try Bumble & Bumble Thickening Spray (20, Harvey Nichols), John Frieda Root Lifting Spray (4.89) and John Frieda Luxurious Volume Thickening Hairspray (5.59).

SHINE AND QUALITY

Like radiant skin, a sheen to the hair is just as important to youthful looking locks. And, thanks to a new breed of high-tech products, state-of-the-art hair care is available.

Jason agrees: "I've had a lot of positive feedback from clients who have been taking either Krastase's Densitive Nutrient (25.25) or the daily nutritional supplement from Kerastase's Age Premium (25.60) range, both of which help combat age-related effects.

"Age Premium has a great nourishing hair bath Bain Substansif (14.60) and rejuvenating Masque Substansif (25.60)."

However lustrous your hair may once have been, it will get depressed with age and may need a big spa pick-me-up. Krastase Chronologiste treatment promises to return hair to its pure and original form. Like a facial for the hair, Chronologiste Essential Restorative Concentrate treats dry, weakened, colour-treated and highlighted hair and is available in-salon (25).

Jason adds: "In Shu Uemura's Art of Hair range there is Shu Prime Plenish shampoo (22.50), conditioner (30.50) and treatment (38.50), which also meets the needs of thinning hair."

COLOUR AND CUT

However, the condition, shine and volume means nothing if your locks aren't working for your face, skin tone and age.

Jason advises: "With hair colour, go for something lighter. Mix tones with highlights or lowlights to create a look with movement and separation that will encourage bounce and body. Don't go too dark though as it can look unflattering on older faces and try not to let your hair get too long either – keep volume with curved layers.