What happens to hair and skin as a person ages?

As a person ages, it is widely observed that hair loses its natural color and tends to thin out, which is primarily due to a decrease in melanin production in hair follicles. This process is commonly referred to as graying of hair. Simultaneously, the skin undergoes various changes; it becomes drier and loses its elasticity. This loss of moisture and elasticity contributes to the development of wrinkles and sagging skin. Aging skin also experiences a reduction in the production of natural oils, further contributing to dryness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The other options do not accurately reflect the common physiological changes associated with aging. For instance, hair becoming thicker contradicts the typical experience of hair thinning with age. Similarly, skin becoming more elastic is not typically observed, as aging usually leads to a decrease in skin elasticity. The notion that hair turns curly or skin becomes oily does not align with the general patterns seen in aging populations, where straightening or thinning of hair, and increased dryness rather than oiliness of skin, are more prevalent. Lastly, the idea of hair remaining unchanged and skin becoming tougher also misrepresents the typical signs of aging, as both hair and skin show significant changes over time.