Changes to Hair During Perimenopause
Hair thinning is a symptom that I had not previously associated with menopause until I joined a menopause discussion group. Upon bringing up the topic, several women shared that they were also experiencing thinning hair.
One participant, Jane, reported a significant increase in hair loss, often having to clear large amounts of hair from the drain. Others echoed her experience. Personally, I have found hair everywhere – in the washing-up bowl, sink, and on my lap. Additionally, my hair has become noticeably frizzier.
Amanda, 50, shared that since her mid-forties, she has had to wash her hair daily due to increased scalp greasiness, even when not experiencing sweats.
Women experiencing perimenopause may find these changes relatable. Previously, my hair was long, glossy, and easy to style; however, I have since ceased attempting to manage it in the same manner due to frizz. This made me wonder if this is why many women opt for shorter styles as they age. Despite using various hair products, I still encounter frizz, and my hair has become wavier. Heated styling tools exacerbate the issue, and the sweating associated with menopause further complicates maintaining styled hair.
Embracing my curls seems easiest, especially in warm weather when sweat dampens my hair. To reduce frizz, I use mousse to enhance my natural waves, a product I hadn’t used in over 25 years. I also let my hair air-dry more often to improve its texture.
How to Improve Hair Health During Perimenopause
There is substantial advice available online regarding hair health during menopause. Some of the recommendations include:
- Vitamin B12 – Biotin: Sources include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. For vegans, options include cereals, yeast extract, and soy products. B12 supplements are also available. I was recommended Biotin Growth+ by Nutrition Geeks. Their website claims it “stimulates keratin production in the hair, leading to fuller, stronger, and more radiant-looking hair.” The supplement contains B12, zinc, and selenium, all of which contribute to improved hair health. It is too early to determine the effectiveness, but I am willing to try anything to regain strong, healthy hair.
- Caffeine Shampoo: This product increases blood flow to the scalp, thereby enhancing nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
- Androgen Levels: Stress increases androgen levels, so managing stress can help reduce hair loss. However, hormonal fluctuations during menopause make this challenging.
Have you experienced hair changes during perimenopause or menopause? Please get in touch and share how you have managed issues such as hair loss, frizz, and greasy hair.
So What's The Menopause? 