5 Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women Over 40 (And How to Fix Them)

This article is in partnership with One Skin. If your ponytail is feeling less pony-like or you’re noticing your arm doesn’t get tired anymore when blow drying your hair (because it takes much less time than it used to), you are not alone. Hair loss in women over the age of 40 is very common. Many women assume it’s simply a side effect of perimenopause and menopause, but it’s actually caused by a mix of factors, including hormonal changes, aging skin, nutrient deficiencies, and years of poor hair care habits.  Here’s a deeper dive into the causes of hair loss over the age of 40 and what you can do to combat it. Here’s to thick ponies again! Hormonal Changes Estrogen and progesterone are key players in the hair growth cycle. Estrogen helps keep hair in the growth phase longer, while progesterone aids in countering the effects of androgens, which can shrink hair follicles and lead to thinning. So, it’s no surprise that as these hormones shift in midlife, many women start to notice hair loss. Menopause can also change the texture of your hair, thanks to shifts in follicle shape. Aging Skin Just like the skin on your face and body, your scalp changes as you age. And since it’s loaded with hair follicles and oil glands, those changes can significantly impact your hair. Over time, your scalp builds up senescent cells—aka zombie cells—that stop working properly and release inflammatory signals, speeding up aging in nearby cells. When the cells responsible for growing hair (think dermal papilla and outer root sheath cells) become senescent, they lose their ability to support the hair growth cycle. That means shorter, thinner, weaker strands of hair. At Nutritious Life, we’re big fans of OneSkin’s OS-01 HAIR peptide scalp serum. It targets a biological process linked to hair loss and thinning: the buildup of those pesky senescent cells. This innovative formula also helps balance the scalp microbiome and supports stronger, healthier follicles—so you’re not just masking symptoms, you’re addressing the real issue behind hair loss. OneSkin is offering Nutritious Life readers 15% off their first purchase with code KERI. Nutrient Deficiencies As you age, your body may become less efficient at absorbing or metabolizing key nutrients that support hair growth—especially iron and vitamin D. While biotin absorption isn’t typically affected by aging, certain medications or low intake can impact your levels and contribute to hair changes too. Iron helps deliver oxygen to your hair follicles, which they need to grow strong, healthy strands. While menstruation can deplete iron earlier in life, low levels can still show up in menopause—especially after years of loss or dietary shifts. Vitamin D plays a key role in the development of new follicles, and low levels have been linked to increased hair shedding and slower growth. Biotin is essential for making keratin (the protein that makes up your hair), and a deficiency can leave your strands brittle and thin.  To keep your hair healthy, aim to get these nutrients from real, whole foods. For iron, lean on quality red meat, seafood, lentils, and dark leafy greens. For vitamin D, go for fatty fish and egg yolks—or talk to your doc about a supplement if you’re low. And, for biotin, think eggs, salmon, nuts, and avocados. A balanced, nutrient-rich plate is one of the best ways to support strong, vibrant hair as you age. Stress and Cortisol Level Does stress feel like your default setting these days? Estrogen and progesterone help buffer the body’s stress response, so when those hormones dip (hello, midlife), cortisol can surge—and you may feel it big time. High cortisol levels can push hair follicles into the resting phase, slowing new growth and even triggering early hair loss. The good news? You can help calm that cortisol. Regular movement, a nutrient-packed, balanced diet, and solid sleep go a long way. Add in relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or even a quick round of box breathing. Not only will you feel more grounded (your family might thank you), but that thick ponytail might just start making a comeback. OneSkin’s OS-01 HAIR is scientifically proven to reduce senescence and inflammation markers in stress hair follicle cells. Unhealthy Hair Habits You don’t get to midlife without having a few favorite styling tools. Unfortunately, those flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers may make your hair look better in the moment, but they may also be the reason your hair is starting to thin. Even styling your hair in a tight ponytail or braid can increase tension on your hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Also, chemical treatments like hair dye strip away natural oils, leaving hair drier and more vulnerable to damage. On the other hand, not washing your hair often enough can cause oil and dirt buildup, clogging hair follicles, and potentially hindering new growth. Finding the perfect hair care balance is key during midlife. One Skin’s OS-01 HAIR is clinically validated to support the scalp microbiome by promoting changes associated with less hair loss and less dandruff. Healthy Hair Starts with Healthy Habits Hair loss in women over 40 can be caused by a variety of factors but making slight changes to your lifestyle—consuming a balanced diet, managing stress, using hair care products such as One Skin’s OS-01 HAIR peptide scalp serum, and adapting healthier hair practices, you may just be feeling like your hair is ready for those 80’s outfits you’re just dying make a comeback. Don’t miss out! OneSkin is offering Nutritious Life readers 15% off their first purchase with code KERI.

3 Reasons Why Summer Skin Needs Extra Care

This article is in partnership with One Skin. As summer kicks into high gear, the days get longer, and the sun gets stronger. It’s the perfect time to give your skin some extra love. Higher temps and increased sweating can clog pores, leading to irritation, breakouts, or dryness. And those stronger UV rays? They’re not just about sunburns—they accelerate skin aging, damage collagen, and increase the risk of skin cancer. If your goal is to feel good and keep that healthy, youthful glow, smart skincare isn’t optional, it’s essential. Summer Skin: Hydration is Critical Keeping your Stanley filled all summer long isn’t just trendy—it’s smart. Hydration plays a major role in skin health, especially when the temps rise. Dehydration can leave your skin looking dull, dry, and less plump. As sweat evaporates, your skin loses moisture, and rehydration becomes essential. On top of that, sun exposure can damage the skin’s moisture barrier, speeding up dryness and signs of aging. And while that post-beach blast of AC feels amazing, air conditioning pulls moisture from the air—and your skin—making things even worse. So, drink up and stay glowing. You may feel sweaty (and dare we say, moist), but your skin is still craving hydration. A good moisturizer doesn’t just make your skin feel better—it helps restore lost moisture, repair sun-exposed skin, and strengthen the skin barrier to protect against further dehydration and damage. We’re loving OneSkin’s OS-01 FACE SPF—not just for hydration, but for that ultra-natural, glowy look. It’s formulated with SPF 30+, making it perfect for your morning walk, running to Pilates class, or even just while on your laptop. Yes, you should be protecting yourself then too! Wear it solo or under makeup for a lightweight, buttery feel that actually does something good for your skin. This hydrating sunscreen is a true triple threat with non-nano zinc oxide, potent antioxidants, and the OS-01 Senescence Blocking PeptideTM. This summer BFF product blocks UV rays, neutralizes free radicals, and reduces the effects of past aging. Plus, it is available in untinted and three tints for breathable, flexible coverage. Grab your OneSkin OS-01 FACE SPF and get 15% off your first order with code: KERI SPF: The First Line of Defense The sun’s UV rays can do serious damage to the skin, making sunscreen a non-negotiable. Mineral sunscreens, which sit on the skin and reflect UV rays, are a great option—especially for sensitive skin. Look for broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher, and remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Many of us have this down pat, but what we tend to neglect is one of our best summer accessories: our lips! Lips are often overlooked, but they’re even more vulnerable than the rest of your skin. The skin on the lips is about 75% thinner, which compromises both its barrier function and moisture retention. That means UV rays can penetrate more easily, leading to dryness, damage, and burns. A lip balm with SPF is a simple way to protect this delicate area. You won’t find our beach bags without OneSkin’s OS-01 Moisturizing Mineral Lip SPF 15+ Sunscreen. Formulated with 100% non-nano zinc oxide, this unique formula delivers immediate hydration and sun protection, while the OS-01 peptide works to visibly reduce signs of aging. Sweat Smart: By Keeping Your Skin Clear and Hydrated As temperatures climb, your body sweats more—and that’s a good thing. Sweating helps regulate your internal temperature, but it can also take a toll on your skin. When sweat mixes with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, it can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Instead of wiping sweat across your face (which can push impurities deeper), gently blot with a clean cloth or towel. Sweat also contains sodium, which can dehydrate the skin and aggravate conditions like eczema. To protect your skin, drink plenty of water and use a hydrating moisturizer to replenish what’s lost. With the right care, you can soak up the sun and embrace the sweat—without compromising your glow. Get Ready for the Sun, The Right Way As soon as the weather turns warm, it’s tempting to rush outside—but don’t forget to prep your skin first. Staying hydrated, wearing SPF (yes, even on your lips!), and caring for your skin post-sweat are simple habits that go a long way. With a little intention, you can soak up the sunshine while keeping your skin healthy, protected, and glowing all summer long. Grab your One Skin here and get 15% off your first order with code: KERI

Navigating Midlife Skin Changes: The Role of Hormones and How to Support Your Skin

This article is in partnership with One Skin. We are all quite aware that our bodies experience all kinds of changes as we move through life. One of the most noticeable shifts happens in our skin which is often the first thing a woman notices as far as aging goes. Midlife can bring a unique set of skin challenges, as hormonal fluctuations play a major role in how our skin behaves. The good news? Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface can help you take steps to support and nurture your skin through this transition. The Hormonal Rollercoaster: How Hormones Affect Your Skin During midlife, the most significant hormonal change women experience is a decrease in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a vital role in keeping the skin firm, hydrated, and youthful. As those levels start to drop, common skin changes can occur. We’re talking: Uneven Skin Tone and Hyperpigmentation: Hormonal shifts can increase melanin production, which might bring along age spots or melasma. The result? A skin tone that’s less even and more prone to those dark spots you never saw coming. Supporting Your Skin with the Right Products While lifestyle habits are hugely important, we can’t ignore choosing the right skincare products which play a major role. But, we don’t want just any products. We want products that roll up their sleeves and really do the work. Well, we’ve found them. We’re loving OneSkin’s eye cream and face moisturizer which are formulated to specifically address the very unique needs of midlife skin. OneSkin uses a patented OS-01 peptide that prevents the accumulation of senescent cells, (AKA “zombie cells,” which trigger the release of inflammatory factors) reducing the spread of these dysfunctional cells in the skin. The result? Healthier, more vibrant skin that looks, feels, and acts younger for longer. We’re in! OneSkin is offering Nutritious Life readers 15% off their first purchase with code KERI. Supporting Your Skin During Midlife: Beyond Skincare While it’s true that skincare products can provide essential support, there are lifestyle factors that can also play a significant role in how your skin ages. Here are some additional ways to keep your skin looking and feeling its best: 1. Hydrate from the Inside Out We all know hydration is important for our skin, but it’s even more crucial as we age. As estrogen levels drop, the skin loses moisture more quickly, so keeping your skin hydrated is key. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also boost hydration by eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens. 2. Fuel Your Skin with Antioxidants The foods you eat directly impact your skin’s health. To help combat the effects of oxidative stress and free radicals (the things that damage your skin cells and contribute to aging), focus on a diet rich in antioxidants. Colorful fruits and vegetables like berries, tomatoes, spinach, and carrots are packed with these protective nutrients. Also, omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts can help keep your skin firm, hydrated and glowing. 3. Get Moving Exercise isn’t just good for your heart, it’s good for your skin too! Regular physical activity boosts circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. It can also help reduce stress (which can trigger skin flare-ups like acne and eczema) and promote better sleep, which is key for skin repair. They call it “beauty sleep” for a reason. 4. Manage Stress Speaking of stress, let’s talk about it because let’s face it, life can get pretty hectic, especially in midlife. But here’s the thing: stress is a major troublemaker when it comes to skin. It triggers  inflammation and can even speed up the aging process. To keep your skin looking fresh, try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine. Yoga, deep breathing exercises, or even a short walk outdoors can make a big difference. 5. Prioritize Sleep Our skin does a lot of its repairing and regenerating while we sleep, so getting enough rest is essential for keeping that youthful glow. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help your body—and your skin—recover. If you’re struggling to fall asleep, creating a calming nighttime routine (think lavender essential oil, a good book, or some gentle stretches) can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest.  6. Wear Sunscreen Daily We all know the importance of sunscreen, but it’s especially crucial in midlife when our skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage and pigmentation changes. Even on cloudy days, make sure to apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. UV exposure can accelerate aging by causing wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, so protecting your skin is one of the best ways to maintain its health. Embrace Your Skin at Every Age The combination of healthy habits and the right skincare is the partnership that your skin craves and will leave you feeling more confident and radiant as you thrive in midlife. While hormonal changes may bring about some challenges, they also give you the opportunity to nurture and love your skin in new ways. By taking care of your body, fueling it with the right nutrients, staying active, and incorporating a skincare routine that supports your skin’s evolving needs, you can look and feel your best.