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Menopause — health-and-wellness — Science — Womens-health

Hair distress during menopause: Strategies to combat the havoc

Menstrual transition may induce hair thinning, dryness, and loss of luster. Skin doctors elucidate the causes behind this phenomenon and propose effective treatments to maintain hair health.

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Menopause may cause hair to become thin, dry, and lacklustre. Skin specialists break down the...
Menopause may cause hair to become thin, dry, and lacklustre. Skin specialists break down the reasons behind this hair change and offer effective treatments to preserve your hair's health.

Hair distress during menopause: Strategies to combat the havoc

Navigating midlife brings its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to hair health. As estrogen and progesterone levels plummet, women in their 40s and 50s may notice more than just a few wrinkles. Enter, perimenopause - the phase before menopause (marked by 12 straight months without a period), which can also cause a some major changes in hair quality.

Say goodbye to luscious locks, as the decline in estrogen can lead to thinning hair and widening parts. This hormonal shift also ups androgen levels, which can exacerbate hair loss, particularly in those with a history of male or female pattern baldness.

To top it off, the same drop in estrogen can also result in hair becoming drier and less resilient, making it more likely to break. But don't despair - there are things you can do to address these changes.

Our panel of top-notch dermatologists share their insights on these hair shifts and how to cope:

What happens to your hair during menopause?

Estrogen plays a starring role in hair growth, density, and fullness. So, as estrogen levels drop, it's no surprise to see more strands flying around. Dr. Melanie Palm, from Art of Skin in San Diego, California, explains, "With the sudden drop in estrogen hormones during this time of life, women will also experience an increase in androgens, which can also contribute to hair loss."

And as if that's not enough, you may notice a change in your hair texture, too. "Hair may become drier and more brittle as natural oil production declines," adds Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of EliteMD in Danville, California.

What can you do about menopause hair?

"Managing menopause-related hair changes requires a combination of lifestyle adjustments and targeted treatments," says Badreshia-Bansal. Staying hydrated, consuming a nutrient-rich diet, and incorporating omega-3 fatty acids can all work wonders for maintaining healthy hair and preventing breakage.

But beyond that, smart product choices can make a difference. Here's what to look for in your hair care routine when addressing the hair shifts that come with "the change":

  • Hydrating ingredients: Hydration is key when battling dry hair. "Focus on ingredients that help retain moisture, like biotin, keratin, and natural oils, such as jojoba, argan, and avocado oil," suggests Palm. Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid will also give an added boost.
  • Sulfate-free formulas: Harsh ingredients, like sulfates, can strip hair of whatever natural oils it has left, leaving it susceptible to breakage. "Sulfate-free formulas are gentler on dry hair," states Palm.
  • Heat protectants: Styling tools like hair dryers, curling irons, and flat irons can cause extensive damage. Using a heat protectant first can shield your hair from the destructive effects of high temperatures.

To help guide you in your quest for luscious locks, we've rounded up our top picks for hair care products that cater specifically to menopausal or older hair.

Embrace the changes and rock your midlife hair with confidence!

Enrichment Data:

  1. To tackle hair loss during menopause, consider pharmaceutical solutions such as Minoxidil (Rogaine), Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, Stem Cell treatments, or Hair Transplants.
  2. Nutritional supplements, like various hair vitamins, can provide essential nutrients to support hair health.
  3. Calecim Advanced Hair System employs regenerative technology to stimulate hair growth at the follicular level.
  4. Hair masks specially formulated for menopause can nourish and replenish affected hair.
  5. Consulting a dermatologist, making dietary changes, and managing stress can all help promote overall hair health during menopause.
  6. The decline in estrogen during menopause can lead to thinning hair and increasing hair loss, with an additional contribution from rising androgen levels.
  7. To address the dryness and brittleness of hair during menopause, it is recommended to focus on hydrating ingredients, use sulfate-free formulas, and apply heat protectants as part of one's hair care routine. Additionally, consulting a dermatologist and making dietary changes can help promote overall hair health during this time.

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