TREATMENT Stylist offers hints on restoring youthful look to aging hair

Physical factors often responsible for changes in appearance of hair.
NEW YORK (AP) -- Many women, and an increasing number of men, spend a lot of time, money and effort on trying to improve the appearance of aging skin. But what about their hair?
Physical factors that can age hair include hormonal changes, lack of protein, a slowing of cell regeneration and certain medications, including those treating high blood pressure and cholesterol, according to Philip Pelusi, a Pittsburgh-based stylist who recently opened his first New York salon.
Hair loses its color due to a lack of melanin and graying hair appears dull and loses reflectivity, Pelusi says. It also loses moisture, elasticity and curl retention.
He also sees hair follicles shrink in about 85 percent of his clients as they age and their density of hair diminishes.
Exposure to sun, ozone and pollution just speed up the aging process, Pelusi says.
His tips to make hair appear younger:
UUse a color-boosting conditioner.
UEat a well-balanced diet.
UExercise. If you're exercising outdoors, wear leave-in conditioner to reduce breakage and protect from sun, or wear a hat.
UUse products with antioxidants and high protein levels.
UUse a natural bristle brush that will not pull out hair.
UUse lightweight products.
UAllow hair to dry naturally. If you must use a hair dryer, cut down the heat.
UAvoid aerosol products.
UMassage scalp on a regular basis.