Women in the 1970s were known for their gorgeous, healthy hair, whether it was long and flowing, voluminous curls, or sleek, natural styles. Unlike today’s chemically treated and heat-damaged hair, their locks were often thick, shiny, and full of life. While genetics play a role, their hair care habits were drastically different from what many women do today. They relied on natural products, washed their hair less frequently, and avoided the constant heat styling that has become the norm. Modern women, on the other hand, are bombarded with hair products loaded with sulfates, silicones, and harsh chemicals that strip moisture and weaken strands. Excessive heat styling, frequent dyeing, and poor diet choices have also contributed to weaker, more brittle hair. It’s no wonder that so many struggle with thinning, frizz, and dryness despite using expensive hair treatments. Looking back at the simple but effective routines of the ‘70s can teach us valuable lessons. Here’s what women in the 1970s did right—and what we’re doing wrong.
1. They Washed Their Hair Less Often
In the 1970s, women didn’t wash their hair every day. Instead, they embraced natural oils that kept their hair moisturized and healthy. Shampooing too frequently strips the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and overproduction of oil. This is why many modern women feel the need to wash their hair daily—because their scalp is in a constant cycle of oil overproduction.
Today, many people wash their hair too often due to marketing pressure from hair product companies. Daily washing, especially with harsh shampoos, can lead to brittle, lifeless hair. Instead, washing two to three times a week allows the scalp to maintain its natural balance, promoting healthier growth. Dry shampoo and scalp massages can help manage oil buildup between washes. Taking a break from daily shampooing can bring hair back to its natural, resilient state. According to Dove, washing your hair too often can strip it of essential oils.
2. They Used Natural Oils Instead of Chemical Conditioners
Women in the ‘70s relied on natural oils like coconut oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil to nourish their hair. These oils provided deep hydration, protected against breakage, and kept hair strong. Unlike many modern conditioners, they didn’t contain silicones or artificial fragrances that create buildup over time. Natural oils penetrated the hair shaft, improving strength and shine from the inside out.
Today, many conditioners are filled with synthetic ingredients that coat the hair rather than nourish it. While they may make hair feel smooth temporarily, they don’t provide lasting benefits. Over time, this buildup can suffocate hair, making it dull and lifeless. Switching to natural oils for deep conditioning can restore moisture, repair damage, and promote long-term hair health. According to Medical News Today, natural oils can provide deep hydration and protect hair from damage.
3. They Avoided Excessive Heat Styling
In the 1970s, women embraced their natural texture and used minimal heat. Hair was often air-dried, set in rollers, or styled with braids and soft waves rather than daily blow-drying or flat ironing. When heat was used, it was at lower temperatures and with more protective techniques. This helped preserve the hair’s strength and prevent unnecessary dryness and breakage.
Today, straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers are used daily, often at dangerously high temperatures. Over time, this constant exposure to heat weakens the hair’s protein structure, leading to split ends and dullness. Heat damage is one of the biggest contributors to thinning and breakage. Cutting back on heat styling, using heat protectants, and embracing natural styles can help restore hair health. According to All Things Hair, heat styling can cause significant damage to hair over time.
4. They Used Gentle, Natural Shampoos
Shampoos in the 1970s were much gentler, often made with natural ingredients and fewer harsh chemicals. Many women used herbal-infused rinses, castile soap, or mild cleansers that didn’t strip their hair of essential oils. This kept their hair soft, manageable, and free from buildup. Natural shampoos also support a healthy scalp, preventing issues like dandruff and irritation.
Modern shampoos are often packed with sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances. These ingredients create foam and make hair feel “clean,” but they also strip away natural moisture and weaken hair over time. Sulfate-free and natural shampoos are better alternatives for those looking to maintain strong, healthy hair. Choosing a gentler cleanser can make a huge difference in long-term hair quality. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, the frequency of shampooing for children between 8 and 12 years old depends on hair type, age, and activity level.
5. They Didn’t Overload Their Hair With Products
Women in the ‘70s kept their hair routines simple. Instead of using five different styling products, they relied on minimal, high-quality ingredients. Hairspray and mousse were used sparingly, and gels were often homemade or made with natural ingredients. Their hair was able to breathe, avoiding the buildup that clogs follicles and weighs hair down.
Today, many women layer on multiple products—leave-in conditioners, serums, volumizers, and styling sprays. While these products may provide short-term benefits, they often contain silicones and alcohol that lead to long-term damage. Too many styling products can also cause scalp irritation and hinder healthy hair growth. Simplifying hair routines and cutting back on excessive product use can lead to healthier, shinier hair.
6. They Had a More Nutritious Diet
Women in the 1970s ate more whole foods and fewer processed meals. Their diets were naturally rich in vitamins and minerals that supported strong hair growth. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and fish provide the protein, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids needed for healthy hair. A well-balanced diet helps keep hair thick, shiny, and resilient.
Modern diets are often high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, which can contribute to hair loss and dullness. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc, and vitamin D, can weaken hair and slow growth. Prioritizing a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of whole foods can support stronger, healthier hair. What we put into our bodies plays a huge role in hair quality.
7. They Had Less Exposure to Environmental Pollutants
Fifty years ago, there was less exposure to pollution, harsh water treatments, and environmental toxins. Women’s hair wasn’t constantly exposed to smog, chemicals, and hard water buildup, which can weaken and dull strands. They also weren’t dealing with the same level of synthetic chemicals in hair products, making it easier to maintain healthy locks.
Today, environmental factors like pollution, chlorine-treated water, and hard minerals contribute to dryness and damage. Many people experience scalp irritation and hair thinning due to these outside stressors. Using filtered water, wearing hats to protect hair from pollutants, and rinsing with apple cider vinegar can help reduce environmental damage. Protecting hair from external stressors is just as important as using the right products.
8. They Were Less Stressed
Stress is one of the biggest contributors to hair thinning and loss. Women in the 1970s led slower-paced lives with fewer digital distractions, which helped reduce chronic stress. Less stress meant lower cortisol levels, a hormone linked to hair shedding and weak follicles. Their simpler lifestyles allowed for better overall health, including stronger, healthier hair.
Today, modern women juggle work, family, and social pressures, often leading to high-stress levels. Chronic stress affects hormone balance, weakens hair, and can even trigger conditions like alopecia. Incorporating relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress-related hair loss. Managing stress is key to maintaining thick, healthy hair.
9. They Used Fewer Chemical Hair Dyes
In the 1970s, most women either embraced their natural hair color or used plant-based dyes like henna. Hair dyeing was less frequent, and when it was done, it involved fewer harsh chemicals. The natural approach helped maintain hair strength, preventing breakage and excessive dryness. Women who did dye their hair often spaced out treatments, giving their hair time to recover.
Today, frequent coloring and bleaching have become the norm, leading to widespread hair damage. Many modern dyes contain ammonia, peroxide, and other harsh ingredients that weaken the hair shaft. Overprocessing strips moisture, causing hair to become brittle and prone to split ends. Switching to gentler dye alternatives, stretching out salon visits, and using deep conditioning treatments can help maintain healthier, stronger hair.
10. They Avoided Tight Hairstyles That Caused Hair Loss
Women in the ‘70s typically wore their hair in loose waves, flowing layers, or soft curls. Tight ponytails, braids, and high-tension hairstyles were not as common. This allowed their hair to grow without constant stress on the roots, preventing issues like traction alopecia. The relaxed styling methods kept hair from thinning or breaking over time.
Today, many women wear tight buns, slicked-back ponytails, and braids that pull on the scalp daily. This repeated tension can weaken hair follicles, leading to hair loss and thinning over time. Wearing looser styles and letting hair down whenever possible can help protect it from unnecessary stress. Giving hair a break from tight styles can prevent long-term damage and promote healthier growth.
11. They Weren’t Constantly Changing Hairstyles
Women in the 1970s stuck to simple, timeless hairstyles rather than chasing every new trend. They typically had a signature look that they maintained for years, whether it was long and wavy or a natural Afro. This consistency meant less exposure to harsh styling changes, such as frequent perming, straightening, or extreme cuts.
Modern hair trends change rapidly, leading people to experiment with drastic cuts, colors, and treatments. Constantly switching between straight and curly, blonde and brunette, or long and short puts stress on the hair. Sticking to a style that works for your hair type can prevent excessive damage. Consistency in hair care is often better than chasing every new beauty trend.
12. They Used Silk Pillowcases and Protective Styles at Night
While not as widely discussed, some women in the ‘70s used silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction while sleeping. Unlike cotton, silk helps retain moisture and prevents hair breakage. Some also loosely braided or wrapped their hair before bed to keep it from getting tangled and frizzy.
Many people today still sleep on rough pillowcases that absorb moisture and create friction, leading to dryness and breakage. Switching to a silk pillowcase and using a gentle protective style can prevent unnecessary hair damage overnight. Small adjustments to nighttime hair care can make a significant difference in maintaining strong, healthy hair.
Women in the 1970s had healthier, shinier hair because they followed simple, natural hair care routines. They washed their hair less, avoided excessive heat, used nourishing oils, and embraced their natural texture. In contrast, modern hair care habits—frequent washing, chemical treatments, and excessive styling—have contributed to weaker, more damaged hair. The good news is that many of these old-school practices can still be revived today. By simplifying hair routines, reducing chemical exposure, and adopting healthier hair habits, we can restore strength and shine to our locks. Sometimes, the best beauty tips are the ones that have stood the test of time.
