HOW MENOPAUSE AFFECTS YOUR HAIR

At Vital Advanced Medical Center for Menopause Treatment Tampa, we work closely with women in Menopause. Long, luxurious hair was considered a sign of femineity and beauty in many cultures. Romans used intricate hair styles to flaunt their wealth and status. Unfortunately, there is Menopause, a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55.

How Menopause Affects Hair

Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to several hair-related changes, including thinning, dryness, and texture changes. These changes can vary from woman to woman but are generally related to

the drop in estrogen levels, which plays a significant role in maintaining hair health. Here's how it affects hair:

Androgenic Alopecia. One of the most common hair changes during menopause is thinning, especially on the crown and temples. This is often due to an increase in the effect of androgens (male hormones, which are present in both men and women). The reduction of estrogen allows these androgens to have a more pronounced effect, leading to hair thinning or even hair loss.

Some women may experience hair thinning all over the scalp, which can be less noticeable at first but becomes more obvious over time.

Dry, Brittle Hair. Reduced estrogen levels can lead to decreased production of sebum, the natural oil that helps keep hair moisturized and shiny. This can lead to dry, brittle hair that is more prone to breakage.

Changes in Hair Texture. Some women at our center for Menopause Treatment Tampa notice that their hair becomes coarser, curlier, or more unruly during menopause. This is due to hormonal shifts that impact hair follicles, causing changes in texture or curl pattern.

Increased Facial Hair. With declining estrogen and relatively higher levels of androgens, some women may notice increased facial hair growth, particularly on the upper lip, chin, and jawline. This is known as hirsutism.

Scalp Sensitivity. Hormonal fluctuations can sometimes make the scalp more sensitive. This might include itchiness, tenderness, or inflammation, which could contribute to increased shedding or thinning.

Excessive Shedding (Telogen Effluvium). A temporary condition called telogen effluvium can also occur, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase of the hair growth cycle due to stress, changes in hormones, or other factors. This can cause noticeable hair loss, but the hair often grows back once the underlying cause is addressed.

How to Manage Hair Changes During Menopause

Eating a Healthy Diet. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, iron, zinc, and biotin, can promote healthy hair growth. Foods like fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens are especially beneficial for hair health.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Some women opt for hormone replacement therapy to balance estrogen and progesterone levels, which may help alleviate some hair thinning issues. However, HRT has potential side effects and should be discussed with a doctor.

At Vital Advanced Medical Center, our certified Sotto Pelle providers use bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Tampa to help women combat the symptoms of Menopause, such as the hair related changes in this article.

Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that nourish and hydrate your hair. Avoid harsh chemicals and heat treatments like straighteners or curling irons. Instead, opt for air-drying when possible.

Minoxidil. For more significant thinning or hair loss, over-the-counter topical treatments like minoxidil may be recommended. It is FDAapproved to help regrow hair and slow down hair loss, though results can vary.

Try using supplements. Some women find that taking supplements like biotin, collagen, or omega-3 fatty acids can help support hair health. However, always check with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Haircuts and Styling. A good haircut can make a big difference. Layers and certain styles can add volume to thinning hair. Talk to your stylist about cutting techniques that can help give your hair a fuller appearance.

Laser Therapy. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), often marketed as laser combs or helmets, has been studied for its ability to stimulate hair growth. This can be an option for some women to manage hair thinning.

When to See a Doctor

If hair thinning becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms like scalp irritation, drastic hair loss, or significant changes in hair color, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine whether there's an underlying medical condition or recommend specific treatments, including blood tests to check for thyroid problems or iron deficiency.

At Vital Advanced Medical Center, our center has helped many women to deal with their symptoms of menopause. Our certified Sotto Pelle providers are available to help create a treatment plan and possibly help cope with Menopause by using BHRT Tampa.