Menopause : Hair Changes
Hair Loss, Hair Thinner, Gray Hair
Aging increases the likelihood that hair will become gray and more brittle. In addition, excessive hair growth (Hirsutism) may occur in areas of the body where hair follicles are especially androgen-sensitive, such as the chin, upper lip, and cheeks. This condition is thought to be due to the shift in the balance between androgen and estrogen levels associated with declining estrogen at menopause. Women often report a large “rogue hair” on their chin that seems to grow to a great length almost overnight while other women notice the appearance of downy facial hairs (“peach fuzz”) on their face.
Menopause Hair Loss
The menopause-related shift in the balance between androgen and estrogen can also result in the opposite effect—hair loss. However, there are some interesting facts about menopause hair loss:
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Gene Matters. There is often a genetic component to hair loss. About 50% of women observe some degree of hair loss or thinning before age 50.
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Cancer Treatment. Temporary hair loss can occur with some cancer treatments.
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Severe in Surgical-Induced Case. Although hair loss may worsen with spontaneous menopause, improvement has been observed in women who undergo surgical menopause because androgen levels plummet after the ovaries are removed. -
Bad Habits and insufficient diet make it worse. Hair loss may also be associated with overdieting, intense or prolonged stress, low iron, certain diseases (such as thyroid disorder), and certain medications (such as some drugs that treat high cholesterol and high blood pressure).
How Can I Manage It?
- Hormone Therapy. Androgen and some types of progestogen therapy may result in hair loss. Some women also report hair loss with estrogen therapy, although others report that estrogen slows hair loss.
- Healthy Lifestyles. Eating a healthy diet, adding a daily multivitamin, and avoiding harsh chemicals and sunlight that dry the hair will help keep hair healthy.
- Consult Dematologist. For mild hirsutism, treatments include plucking, waxing, shaving, bleaching, electrolysis, and laser treatment. Treating severe hirsutism or hair loss can be more of a challenge because the cause is often difficult to determine. Consulting a dermatologist is suggested.
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