Navigating Menopausal Hair Changes

Richard Scorer, Creative Director at Haringtons, has over 30 years of experience in the haircare world. He shares invaluable tips on maintaining healthy hair through life's transitions. In this issue, he sheds light on how menopause impacts hair health and offers guidance on managing menopausal hair thinning.

Understanding the Effects of Menopause on Hair

Menopause triggers a decline in oestrogen levels, a hormone crucial for hair vitality. This means many women experience a reduction in hair volume and length, alongside increased fragility. Hair follicles produce finer strands post-menopause, making them more susceptible to breakage. On top of all this, heightened testosterone levels can exacerbate hair thinning, particularly in individuals sensitive to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Identifying Symptoms of Menopausal Hair Thinning

Menopausal hair thinning manifests gradually, with various telltale signs emerging around the age of fifty (on average.) Women may notice a thinner ponytail, reduced hair growth, widening parting, increased scalp visibility, temple recession, and diminished density along the hairline.

It can come as a shock to notice that your hair is not the lustrous mane it once was, but it’s important to remember that it isn’t just happening to you. Hair loss can have a major impact on your confidence and how you feel about yourself, but there are ways to be proactive about it. Aside from medications (which we won’t dive into as it isn’t our area of expertise) there are holistic hair approaches you can take to try and mitigate your hair loss.

Exploring Practical Solutions

So, what can you do to be proactive about hair loss during menopause? There are plenty of products out there that can enhance the appearance of thicker hair. Kerastase's Densifiquerange is formulated for hair loss. It uses Hyaluronic Acid which was discovered by scientists in 1934. Hyaluronic acid is a special molecule that occurs naturally in the human body and forms an essential part of the support system for skin and hair. It is the reason healthy faces look plump and dewy, and one of the ingredients that makes hair supple and radiant. For a bit of extra fullness try the Tecni Art Full Volume Mousse which gives a lovely dry hold while making the hair look thicker. A great blow dry will also help give you volume and movement.

And it’s not just styling that can help. Introducing Colour to the hair lifts the cuticle and swelling the hair shaft, while a variation of tones gives depth to the style, drawing the eye across the hair giving the impression a thicker, denser mane. Regular cuts keep the hair stronger and more able to cope with the rigours of day-to-day styling.

Richard emphasises the importance of proactive hair care during menopause, advocating for tailored treatment plans that address individual needs. By combining professional expertise with practical strategies, women can navigate menopausal hair changes with confidence and grace.