Hair loss and the menopause

We’re here to help you get your mojo back if menopause is causing havoc with your hair, says our Stylist Shelby. From styling tips to product advice, find out how to carry on looking and feeling fabulous.

But first:

What’s happening to your hair?

“Menopause affects women in different ways, and that includes their hair. Some women experience no hair problems at all, while others will experience hair loss,” explains Shelby. “This is because menopause reduces your oestrogen levels, and oestrogen is a hair-friendly hormone.”

She adds, “You may also find your hair becomes very dry and brittle, breaking easily. This is because the new hair strands that your follicles produce become finer and finer hair is more fragile and likely to break.”

Styles for thinning hair

One key way to disguise thinning hair is to go for a restyle. Book a free consultation on 01277 263060, and we can chat through the best options for you, says Shelby.

It may sound counterintuitive, but an excellent cut can make a big difference when hair starts to get thinner. This will add volume and texture, giving the appearance of thicker hair.

Now is also the time to make the most of those naturally curly locks if you’re lucky enough to have them – curls and waves are a great disguiser of thinning hair. Tousled layers, choppy bobs or a curtain fringe can dramatically change the appearance of thinning hair.

In addition, colour can make a big difference in how thick and healthy your hair looks. Ask us about subtle highlights and lowlights that add the appearance of, depth and volume.

Shelby’s top tips:

We can show you how to:

1. Tease hair out to give the appearance of more volume.
2. Experiment with parting your hair in a different place, or doing away with a parting altogether, if your usual parting is starting to show more scalp than you’d like.
3. Use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to add natural volume.
4. Blow-dry upside-down to make the most of gravity to add lift and volume.
5. Use volumising mousses or sprays to give your hair more body. Now is probably a good time to review your shampoo and conditioner too. We have a wide choice of products and will be happy to advise.
6. Massage your scalp when washing your hair to stimulate blood flow and healthy hair growth.

Do’s and don’ts for thinning menopausal hair

These self-care tips will also help, says Shelby.

Do:

• Eat well, stay hydrated and exercise regularly – a healthy diet can help to ensure your hair gets the balanced diet it needs.
• Try to keep your stress levels in check to prevent a hormonal imbalance, for example, by doing yoga or breathing exercises to help you relax.
• Protect your hair with a hat when out and about in the sun or windy weather.

Try to avoid the following:

• Over-use heat tools such as straighteners as these can further weaken your hair.
• Pull your hair back in buns, ponytails or tight braids, as this may contribute to hair loss (traction alopecia).
• Smoke or go on crash diets – both of which your hair will hate.

When to check with your GP

See your GP if you are worried about your hair or scalp condition, says Shelby. For example, if you have sudden hair loss or your scalp has sore patches, is very itchy, or has reddish, scaly patches. If you have any doubts, get it checked out.

She adds, “If you are considering taking HRT, always tell your GP if you are worried about hair thinning as this may affect which HRT they prescribe.”

Book your free consultation today

Don’t feel alone or suffer in silence. Our haircare experts will talk you through all the best styling and product solutions. Book a complimentary, confidential consultation if you want help with your hair.