Menopause and hair loss: 6 Ways to Deal with Weakening Hair

In many women, some physical and mental changes occur with the onset of the menopause process. Although the symptoms vary from person to person, symptoms such as hot flashes, palpitations, sweating, weight, headache, weakness, insomnia, depression and hair loss are among the most common complaints of the menopause process. Thinning and sparse hair is a physical problem with psychological consequences. So, why does hair fall out during menopause? Is it possible to be treated? You can read the rest of the article to find out the answers to these questions.

The Relationship Between Menopause and Hair Loss

Just as graying of hair is a part of aging, menopause is an inevitable and natural process that women will experience in their life cycles. Menopause before the age of 40 is considered as early menopause. According to studies, the average age of menopause in women is around 45 to 50 years, in the absence of any other health problems. Major hormonal changes that occur with less secretion of estrogen and progesterone hormones in the body can damage the structure of the hair and lead to heavy hair loss. Since these hormones support the speed of the hair growth phase, slower growing hair cannot replace the naturally shed hair. This leads to a weak and sparse appearance in the hair.

But there is no need to panic! Hair loss can have many different causes. The first thing to do is to investigate the reasons for this, to find out if another health problem is causing the shedding.

Having a hair loss problem caused by menopause does not mean that you have to give up your hair. There are treatment options and alternative solutions that can prevent hair loss.

What are the Symptoms of Hair Loss Related to Menopause?

During the menopause, the hair begins to thin and become sparse over time. Therefore, you may not realize that you are experiencing hair loss due to menopause in the first place. The signs to watch out for are as follows:

• Hair breakage more easily
• Decrease in hair volume
• Opening in the forehead area
• More visible hairy scalp
• Increased hair bristles on pillowcases, hairbrush, floors

In some cases, a marked sparseness can be seen on the top of the head and on the sides. The sooner you notice these symptoms, the easier it will be to treat.

How Common Is Hair Loss During Menopause?

An average of 80% of women in the menopause period experience the problem of thinning and sparse hair. Genetic factors also play a role in the problem of hair loss, which is one of the most common complaints of menopause. If you have a family member with hair loss during menopause, you are likely to experience this problem as well.

What Factors Cause Hair Loss During Menopause?

Although hair loss experienced during menopause is largely due to hormonal changes, there may be other factors that trigger hair loss in this process. Conditions such as stress, medications, diseases, heavy treatment processes, and vitamin deficiency can worsen the problem of hair loss due to menopause. For this reason, it is important to identify and treat the causes of hair loss.

How Does Perimenopause Hair Loss Happen?

Perimenopause is a process that covers the transition period to menopause. This process, in which hormone levels are fluctuating and variable, begins in the 40s. It is known that hair loss is associated with a decrease in hormone levels. Therefore, in this process where the body is preparing for menopause, hair loss problems may occur after entering the menopause period. Hair becomes more dry, lifeless and dull than before. Since hair loss in the perimenopause period and the problem of hair loss in the menopause period develop due to similar reasons, the treatment methods to be applied are the same.

Can Hair Loss Be Prevented During Menopause?

There are some solutions to deal with hair loss experienced in this process. Here’s what to do step by step:

1. Check Your Hair

Follow the changes in your hair. It means that you notice details such as drying, dulling, thinning, opening in the forehead area early, and taking early precautions. Observe your hair and if you detect these signs, make an appointment with a dermatologist without waiting.

2. Use the Right Hair Care Product

During the menopause, hair needs careful and regular care, as they are more sensitive. Chemical-containing hair care products cause more damage to your already damaged hair. It is necessary to use products with nourishing and natural ingredients that will not harm the hair texture.

3. Be Gentle With Your Hair

External applications to the hair can also accelerate the deterioration of the hair structure. Chemical hair dyes, high-temperature hair styling products are very harmful for hair that is prone to breakage. Avoiding hard movements while combing the hair; It should be combed gently with a damp brush.

How is Menopausal Hair Loss Treated?

The first thing to do in order to find a solution to the hair loss problem experienced during menopause is to go to a doctor and investigate whether there is another health problem or vitamin deficiency that may cause hair loss. Hair loss due to menopause is generally treated with hormone supplementation. However, it should be considered that this also has some side effects and risks.

In addition to hormone therapy, options such as hair transplantation can also be considered. Let’s take a look at the methods that can be applied for those who prefer to have a hair transplant:

Minoxidil : Minoxidil is an active ingredient used in the treatment of hair loss with its feature of supporting the growth process of hair. However, it can have adverse side effects such as skin irritation. For this reason, its use has been restricted in many countries. Rosemary oil has been shown to have similar benefits to minoxidil and without serious side effects.

Treatment of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) PRP , eluting the blood plasma taken from the body is injected back into the body. Some studies show that the PRP method, which is applied by injecting platelet-rich cells into the scalp, is effective in the treatment of hair loss.

Laser Therapy: Although there is no scientific basis, it is thought that the treatment applied with the use of low-energy laser reduces hair loss.

6 Ways to Deal with Hair Weakening During Menopause:

1. Eat well

An unhealthy diet routine also negatively affects hair health. Adequate vitamins and minerals should be taken, and the daily diet should consist of protein-rich foods. Protein has an effect on the hair follicles and if not taken enough, it negatively affects the growth process of the hair. Apart from nutrition, vitamin supplements taken from outside will also be beneficial for hair.

2. Nourish Your Hair With The Right Care Products

Cleaning and care products used for hair should be chosen carefully. Although the right hair care product does not cure hair loss, it supports the treatment process. Shampoo and conditioner with natural ingredients that help repair and strengthen hair should be preferred.

3. Protect Your Hair From The Sun’s Rays

Sun rays damage the hair as well as the skin. A styling product with UV protection can be used to prevent less damage to the hair during the menopause process. In addition, wearing a hat can be considered as a protective measure for hair.

4. Use a Bamboo Pillow Cover

Bamboo pillowcases, which have a smoother texture, prevent hair from drying out and being damaged by friction.

5. Reduce Stress Level

The negative effects of intense stress on physical and mental health are well known. Uncontrolled stress is the main enemy of a woman trying to fight her menopausal symptoms. It is thought to trigger the problem of hair loss, especially as an expected result of the menopause process.

6. Change Your Hairstyle

With the thinning and thinning of hair during menopause, you may need to reconsider your haircut preferences. Short hairstyles are recommended to make the hair look more voluminous.