A new study says sleek, glossy hair might do more than just look good, it could make you appear younger and healthier too.
Researchers from the University of Westminster found that hair texture and shine directly affect how attractive, youthful, and healthy a person appears. The peer-reviewed study, published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, examined how changes in hair shine, alignment (straightness), and volume influenced how people judged women’s looks. The results showed that straight, shiny hair topped every other combination.
The scientists showed participants photographs of natural human-hair wigs that were digitally adjusted to vary in smoothness, shine, and volume. Over 1,500 participants from the U.S., Germany, and Spain rated the images. Their findings were remarkably consistent: shiny hair was rated as younger and healthier in nearly all comparisons, straight well-aligned hair scored the highest for attractiveness and perceived health, and excessive volume didn’t necessarily improve perceived beauty, it sometimes lowered health scores if the hair looked frizzy or uneven.
Dr. Janek Lobmaier, one of the researchers, explained that “smooth, shiny hair reflects light evenly, which is a visual cue of good health and youth.” (Reference: “Perceptions of female age, health and attractiveness vary with systematic hair manipulations,” Int. J. Cosmetic Sci., 2024.)
The rise of the glass-hair trend perfectly reflects these findings.
From Kim Kardashian’s iconic mirror-finish look to Dua Lipa’s sleek black styles, straight reflective hair has become a global beauty statement. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, who often styles Kim Kardashian, said in an interview that “mirror-finish hair instantly photographs younger and more polished.” Even stars like Jennifer Aniston, Selena Gomez, and Hailey Bieber often choose ultra-sleek, straight looks for major events, reinforcing the idea that healthy hair equals glossy hair.
But this study doesn’t mean everyone should straighten their hair.
Scientists noted that the experiments used only Caucasian hair samples, and perceptions can differ across cultures and hair types. Still, the key takeaway is clear: shine and smoothness matter not because straight hair is better, but because the human eye interprets shine and uniformity as signs of health.
In simple terms, hair that’s clean, conditioned, and well-maintained tends to look healthier and more attractive than dull or damaged strands, regardless of its natural texture.
At ControlHairFall, we recommend focusing on overall hair health.
- Clarify once or twice a month to remove buildup that can block light reflection.
- Deep condition weekly using masks with proteins or natural oils.
- Always use a heat protectant before styling, and finish with a light serum or oil like argan or camellia for extra gloss.
- Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can also help reduce friction and prevent breakage.
- Healthy cuticles create a smoother surface that reflects more light, which naturally boosts shine.
The bottom line: straight, shiny hair enhances how others perceive your health and youthfulness, but real beauty lies in maintaining healthy, nourished hair, no matter the texture.
