There are many well-known signs of the menopause, but one that is often overlooked is the effect on the hair. The hormonal fluctuations during menopause, mainly the decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels, play a pivotal role in altering hair texture, thickness, and growth patterns.
Just as during the postpartum period, menopause marks a decline in oestrogen levels which sets off a cascade of changes within the body, and the effects manifest notably in your hair. One of the first noticeable changes is the gradual loss of hair volume as your once-lush locks might begin to feel thinner and more prone to dryness. The speed at which your hair grows also undergoes a shift. It slows down considerably, leaving you with the impression that your hair just isn't growing as quickly as it used to. You may also find that the texture of your hair might change, with an increased tendency towards frizziness or even a surprise emergence of curls!
But what is it that is causing this transformation? As oestrogen and progesterone decrease, the body responds by boosting androgen production, a group of male hormones. These androgens, while typically associated with male characteristics, are present in both men and women, but in women, an increase in androgens can trigger a cascade of effects, including the shrinking of hair follicles on the scalp which means hair loss becomes more noticeable. The once-healthy hair follicles start to diminish in size, leading to the thinning of your crowning glory and they can also alter the very shape of hair follicles, morphing them from round to flat. Hair follicles that were once round and straight now adopt a flattened shape, causing an unexpected change in texture which means straight hair might become slightly more textured, even taking on a subtle curl.
Understanding these changes can help navigate the emotional and physical shifts that accompany menopause. For many women, changes in hair can significantly impact self-esteem and body image so it’s essential to embrace these transformations as a natural part of the journey rather than viewing them as an obstacle.
There are many ways to manage and care for your hair during menopause though, from adopting specific haircare routines and products, to seeking professional advice. Consider incorporating gentle hair products designed to add moisture and volume and use natural, yet effective ingredients such as the WeKind Rejuvenate range. Our range contains:
- Biotin for Strengthening: Biotin, a B-vitamin, fortifies hair follicles, promoting strength and resilience, which can be crucial during menopause-related hair changes.
- Baicapil for Hair Density: Baicapil, a botanical complex, helps increase hair density by stimulating hair growth and reducing hair loss, addressing the thinning often experienced in menopausal hair.
- Vitamin B5 for Moisture: Vitamin B5, or panthenol, hydrates the hair and scalp, combating dryness and brittleness that can occur due to hormonal changes during menopause.
- Rosemary Extract for Scalp Health: Rosemary extract improves scalp circulation, fostering a healthy environment for hair growth and potentially minimising hair shedding during menopause.
- Sage Leaf Extract for Nourishment: Sage leaf extract provides nourishment to the hair follicles, supporting healthier, more robust hair growth in menopausal stages.
And don't forget that good hair health starts from the inside! A well-balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being during this transitional phase. Incorporating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D helps maintain bone health, which is crucial as oestrogen levels decline. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts aid in managing mood swings and, consuming phytoestrogen-rich foods such as soybeans and legumes can help lessen hot flashes and night sweats due to their oestrogen-like effects.