Most women know that, when menopause hits, they will likely experience some hot flashes and mood swings—common, much-discussed side effects of this hormonal change. What some women don’t realize is that hair loss, too, can be caused by menopause. In fact, among post-menopausal women, about 40 percent deal with thinning hair.
This number may come as a surprise to you; after all, if that many women struggle with hair loss, why don’t we see more bald women? Part of it is because, unlike with male pattern baldness, the hair loss that women face is usually quite a bit subtler. Women who are going through menopause probably won’t have all their hair fall out, but they may experience some general thinning across the scalp.
Hormones, Hair Loss, and Menopause
Why do women experience hair loss during menopause, though? We’ve already hinted that hormones play a big role, and indeed, hormones regulate the body’s natural cycles of hair growth, which means that any hormonal change can affect hair growth. The influx of hormones during a pregnancy tend to lead to fuller, longer hair; menopause, which usually brings an increase in male hormones (androgens), can have the opposite effect.
There are other factors that can contribute to hair loss, too, however—including genetic predisposition, stress, and even nutrition. In other words, not all women are going to face the same level of hair loss during menopause.
Treating Hair Loss
The most important thing that women facing menopause can do is to simply be aware that hair loss is a possibility. Hopefully, it won’t happen to you—but it is nevertheless a good idea to be vigilant, and to watch out for shedding or other signs of hair loss. If you detect hair loss early, you can work to prevent it.
There are a number of ways to treat menopausal hair loss, and what we recommend is that you speak with a stylist from New Image about the treatment methods that make the most sense for you. In some cases, topical solutions may represent the best course of action, especially if you catch your hair loss early. Low-level laser therapy can also help stimulate hair growth. Hormonal supplements, too, can prove helpful, though this is an approach you will want to talk about with your doctor. For a lot of women, the all-around best course of action against hair loss is one that combines several of these approaches.
For women who have already experienced significant hair loss, there are plenty of ways to restore your look and your confidence—including hair systems. Again, it’s something we’d love to talk with you about. We invite you to come by New Image Hair at your convenience.