Perimenopause brings a whirlwind of physical and emotional changes, and one of the most surprising is how it affects your hair. Hair becomes thinner, drier, and even less abundant, which can impact your self-esteem. But understanding the changes in hair during perimenopause and knowing how to care for it during this stage will help you regain control. In this post, you'll discover everything you need to face these changes with the right care, treatments, and products.
Why does perimenopause affect hair so much?
As the female body enters perimenopause and progresses towards menopause, it is common to experience noticeable differences in hair. Numerous studies show the hormonal changes experienced during this stage, especially the decrease in estrogen, and what this causes in the form of alterations in hair texture, thickness, and vitality. The most frequent changes in hair during perimenopause are:
- Thinning Hair: One of the most common changes is the alteration in hair thickness. Estrogen is key to maintaining healthy, full-bodied hair. As its levels drop, hair loses volume and density, making it weaker.
- Hair Loss: Many women notice increased hair loss during perimenopause and menopause. This is due to the reduction of estrogen and the increase of androgens, which causes more intense shedding than usual. Although some loss is normal, shedding at this stage is usually more noticeable and concerning.
- Dry and Brittle Hair: Hair can also become drier and more brittle. With fewer natural oils on the scalp, hair loses moisture and becomes more fragile.
- Gray Hair: The decrease in estrogen contributes to pigment loss, leading to more gray or white hairs.
- Changes in Hair Texture: Hair during perimenopause can become frizzier or, in some cases, straighter. Hormonal fluctuations affect the shape and texture of follicles, leading to visible changes in your hair's appearance.
- Dry Scalp: A dry scalp often goes hand in hand with dry hair, as oil production decreases. This can cause itching and irritation, worsening hair problems.
Estrogen Decrease: The Main Cause of Hair Loss in Perimenopause
The main cause of changes in hair during perimenopause is the decrease in estrogen levels, which directly affects the hair growth cycle. Estrogen prolongs the growth phase (anagen) of hair. When there is less estrogen, hair transitions more quickly to the resting and shedding phases. Additionally, an increase in androgens (male hormones) can worsen density changes, as these hormones reduce the size of hair follicles.
Androgenic Alopecia: A Common Problem Beyond Perimenopause
Hair loss is a common problem that many women face during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. Studies indicate that a high percentage of women suffer from androgenic alopecia (hair loss on the top of the scalp) during these stages, driven by the aforementioned hormonal changes. Although losing 100 to 150 hairs a day is normal, hormonal imbalance during perimenopause can accelerate this process, making the shedding more noticeable. This condition often worsens as women advance towards menopause and postmenopause.
The emotional impact of hair changes
Changes in hair during perimenopause and menopause not only alter appearance but can also impact emotional and psychological well-being:
- Loss of confidence: Changes in texture or hair loss can affect self-esteem. Many women feel less confident when their hair no longer looks or feels as it once did.
- Affected quality of life: Hair problems at this stage can influence how you perceive yourself and increase stress related to other menopausal symptoms.
How to combat hair changes in perimenopause?
Fortunately, there are several ways to manage hair changes during perimenopause and keep it healthy and beautiful:
Keeping hair hydrated is essential
Hydrating hair is essential during perimenopause and menopause. Dryness and fragility can be reduced with products rich in natural humectants. We recommend using formulations that contain hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed jojoba esters. These ingredients offer key benefits:
- Increase hydration: Hydrolyzed jojoba esters mimic human sebum, restoring lost moisture and preventing hair from becoming dry and weak. Hyaluronic acid increases water levels in hair fibers, reducing frizz.
- Soothe the scalp: Hydrolyzed jojoba esters also soothe an irritated scalp, which can become more sensitive at this stage. These ingredients are found in both our shampoo and our conditioner to revitalize your hair and scalp.
Treatments for hair loss in perimenopause
To treat hair loss in perimenopause, it is a must to use specific treatments. If you experience severe loss, products containing corosolic acid are highly effective. This powerful ingredient, present in The Scalp Cure, works in several ways:
- Inhibits the conversion of testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the hormone associated with hair loss.
- Decreases the production of proteins such as FGF-5, which contribute to hair loss.
- Stimulates the production of hair cells and promotes the growth of stronger, thicker hair by activating proteins such as FGF-7 and BMP-2, which regulate hair growth and thickness.
Regular use of treatments like this helps reduce hair loss during perimenopause and menopause, while promoting the growth of healthier, more resilient, and visibly denser hair.
Opt for gentle hair formulas
During perimenopause, it's important to use moisturizing and gentle hair products that respect the hair's natural oils. Here are some key tips:
- Wash less frequently: Over-washing hair can worsen dryness. Try to wash it only when necessary and always use a deep conditioner afterward.
- Avoid harsh treatments: Reduce the use of heat tools and dyes that can further damage hair. If you need to use heat to style your hair, be sure to always apply a heat protectant.
Follow a lifestyle that strengthens your hair
In addition to choosing the right products, implementing some lifestyle changes can help maintain hair health during perimenopause:
- Eat a balanced diet: Consuming nutrient-rich foods is essential for hair health. Vitamins, such as biotin, strengthen both hair and nails, while foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids promote scalp health.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity improves blood circulation, which can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
- Say NO to stress: Stress is a key factor in hair loss. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to keep stress under control.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for cell regeneration, including the cells responsible for hair growth.
Taking control of your hair…
Perimenopause and menopause bring inevitable hair changes, from hair loss to dryness and texture changes. Understanding the causes of these changes empowers you to take control of your hair health at this stage of life. Remember that, although hair changes in perimenopause are a natural part of aging, with the right care and products, you can maintain healthy and vibrant hair at any age.