Did you know that menopause can affect your hair? You might discover unexpected fuzzy hairs sprouting in unwelcome areas, while the hair you wish to maintain may undergo undesirable changes, such as becoming brittle and dry or thinning. During perimenopause and menopause, women frequently experience a variety of changes in their hair, often due to hormonal fluctuations.
Here are 10 common menopause hair care issues that can occur during this period:
Thinning Hair: Many women experience thinning hair during menopause. This is primarily due to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone, which can reduce hair growth and make hair finer.
Hair Loss: Increased hair shedding or loss can occur, often noticed as more hair in the brush or shower drain. This is typically a result of lower estrogen levels which previously helped to promote hair growth and keep it in its growing phase.
Texture Changes: The texture of hair may change during menopause. Once straight hair might become wavy or curly, or vice versa. This is due to changes in the hair follicles under the influence of hormonal changes.
Dryness / Brittleness: Menopausal women often find their hair becomes drier and less oily than before. This is because oil glands may become less active with age and hormonal changes. Hair might become more brittle and prone to breaking.
Scalp Sensitivity: Some women may notice increased sensitivity of the scalp. This can be due to hormonal changes affecting the skin and nerve endings in the scalp.
Dandruff or Scalp Flaking: Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to changes in the scalp's skin, sometimes resulting in dandruff or increased flaking.
Reduced Hair Volume: Apart from thinning, there can be an overall reduction in hair volume, making hair appear less full and dense.
Slower Hair Growth: The rate of hair growth may slow down. This is often a result of hormonal changes that affect the hair growth cycle.
Oily or Itchy Scalp: Contrary to dryness, some women might experience an oilier or itchier scalp due to hormonal imbalances, which might be exacerbated by factors like stress and changes in skincare routines.
Increased Androgen Levels Leading to Male-Pattern Hair Loss: In some cases, an increase in androgens (male hormones) can lead to hair loss patterns similar to those seen in men, such as receding hairline and bald spots.
It's important to note that these changes can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience one or more of these issues, while others might not notice significant changes in their hair during menopause. Regular care, a balanced diet, and sometimes specific hair treatments can help manage these changes.
Consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment if experiencing significant changes or concerns regarding hair and scalp health during perimenopause and menopause.
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