Age manifests itself with multiple changes in our body, both inside and out. While some differences are more progressive and subtle, others are more obvious to the naked eye, such as the appearance of gray hair or wrinkles on the skin. And hair is precisely a factor that is significantly influenced by aging, but not only with regard to graying.
On the other hand, what many do not know is that birthdays also affect our nails. Knowing the changes in nails and hair in old age will help distinguish which developments are normal and which should worry us and make us go to a specialist.
It is no secret that the appearance of gray hair is a clear sign of aging, although it can be easily hidden with hair dye. But why do gray hair appear? According to the MedlinePlus portal – a health information service dependent on the United States National Library of Medicine – hair follicles produce melanin, the substance responsible for hair pigment. With age, hair follicles produce less and less melanin, resulting in the appearance of gray hair.
Although the appearance of gray hair depends on genetics, they generally appear around the age of 30. The hair begins to gray in the temple area and extends to the top of the scalp, becoming increasingly lighter. But gray hair is not limited only to the hair on the head, but also to the body and facial hair, which turn gray somewhat later than the scalp.
Furthermore, gray hair is not the only hair condition caused by age. As we age, almost all people experience hair loss and a slowdown in hair growth. Hair fibers become smaller, hair becomes thinner and finer, and many hair follicles stop producing new hair.
When it comes to nails, they are also affected by age. As reported by MedlinePlus, as we add years, they grow more slowly and become more fragile. Their appearance may become paler, or they may become yellowish and opaque.
Or it may happen that the nails – especially the toenails – become harder and thicker. Ingrown toenails are more recurrent and it is common for the nails to become brittle.
In any case, it is necessary to consult a doctor if dimples, ridges, lines, changes in contour or other abnormal changes appear in the nails. These could be due to a deficiency of iron or any other nutrient, or perhaps kidney disease.
