Hair plays a significant role in how we feel about our appearance and health. For many women, the transition through perimenopause and menopause brings noticeable changes to their hair, such as thinning, dryness, brittleness, or even loss. These changes can be distressing but understanding their root causes and how to address them can help women restore their hair health and confidence.
Why Hair Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause
The hormonal fluctuations that occur during perimenopause and menopause are the primary drivers of hair changes.
Hormonal Changes That Impact Hair
- Declining Estrogen and Progesterone
- These hormones promote hair growth and moisture. As their levels drop, hair may become thinner, dryer, and more prone to breakage.
- Increased Androgen Activity
- Androgens like testosterone can convert to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which shrinks hair follicles and contributes to hair thinning, especially at the crown and temples.
- This can also cause other androgenic symptoms, such as:
- Acne.
- Increased facial or body hair.
- Scalp sensitivity.
- Stress and Cortisol
- Elevated cortisol levels during this life stage can contribute to hair shedding and slow regrowth.
Underlying Causes That Need Evaluation
In addition to hormonal shifts, there are other factors that can exacerbate hair issues:
Micronutrient Deficiencies
- Low levels of iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins can impair hair growth and strength.
Thyroid Dysfunction
- Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism often contributes to hair thinning or loss.
Gut Health
- A disrupted gut microbiome can impair nutrient absorption, affecting hair health.
Chronic Inflammation
- Systemic inflammation can weaken hair follicles and promote shedding.
The Role of Functional Labs in Hair Health
Functional lab testing helps uncover the root causes of hair issues, guiding targeted interventions.
Recommended Tests
- Dutch Complete: Offers insights into sex hormone pathways, including androgen activity and DHT levels.
- Thyroid Panel: Evaluates thyroid function (TSH, free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies).
- Micronutrient Testing: Identifies deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.
- Inflammatory Markers: Detect chronic inflammation that may be affecting hair health.
Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications for Healthy Hair
Dietary Changes
- Protein-Rich Foods: Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein. Include eggs, lean meats, fish, and legumes.
- Iron and Zinc: Found in spinach, red meat, pumpkin seeds, and fortified cereals.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Improve scalp health and reduce inflammation (e.g., salmon, walnuts, chia seeds).
- Vitamin C: Aids in iron absorption and supports collagen production (e.g., citrus fruits, bell peppers).
- Biotin and B Vitamins: Essential for hair growth (e.g., eggs, nuts, whole grains).
Lifestyle Changes
- Stress Management: Incorporate yoga, meditation, or journaling to lower cortisol levels.
- Exercise: Promotes circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
- Adequate Sleep: Facilitates cell repair and hair growth.
Evaluating Hair Care Products
The products you use can have a significant impact on hair and scalp health. Many conventional products contain harsh chemicals that can worsen dryness, brittleness, or even contribute to hair loss.
Tips for Choosing Safer Products
- Read Labels: Avoid sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
- Use the YUKA App: Scan products to evaluate the safety of their ingredients.
- DIY Hair Care: Create your own natural hair care products using ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and essential oils.
Recommended Reading
- Homemade Hair Care: 101 Recipes for Natural Hair Products by Christine Shahin
How the Androgen Pathway Contributes to Hair Loss
The androgen pathway can cause high DHT levels, leading to hair follicle miniaturization. This type of hair loss, often called androgenic alopecia, is common during perimenopause and menopause due to hormonal shifts.
How We Evaluate Androgen Activity
- Dutch Complete Testing provides detailed insights into androgen pathways, helping us identify if high DHT levels are contributing to hair loss.
- Targeted treatment can include herbal supplements, dietary changes, or medications to address the underlying cause.
Further Reading and Resources
- The Hair Bible: A Complete Guide to Healthy Hair by Philip Kingsley
- Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden
- Research Articles:
Holistic Hair Health at Antigravity Wellness
At Antigravity Wellness, we understand that hair concerns during perimenopause and menopause are more than cosmetic—they are deeply tied to overall health. Our approach includes:
- Comprehensive functional testing like Dutch Complete to uncover hormonal imbalances.
- Tailored dietary and lifestyle plans to promote hair health.
- Guidance on safe, natural hair care products through our Fullscripts dispensary.
- Targeted treatment for androgenic symptoms and other underlying causes.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, thinning, or breakage and want to restore your hair’s health, schedule a brief initial consult today to explore how we can help.
