For many women, menopause brings unexpected changes beyond hot flushes and sleep – including finding more hair than usual in the shower or on the hairbrush. Hair thinning affects around 40–50% of women during the menopausal transition and can have a real impact on confidence.
For an overview of this stage of life, see our complete guide to perimenopause.
Why does more hair fall out during menopause?
Hair follicles are sensitive to hormones. During the reproductive years, oestrogens help prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle. As oestrogen and progesterone decline, this phase shortens and the relative influence of androgens increases, which can lead to finer hair and lower density. Stress, lack of sleep and low levels of certain nutrients can also increase daily shedding.
When to see your GP or a dermatologist
Some increase in shedding during perimenopause is common, but it should not simply be assumed to be 'part of ageing'. Speak to your GP or a dermatologist if you notice:
- Sudden or rapid hair loss.
- Clearly defined or patchy areas of hair loss.
- Redness, pain or scaling of the scalp.
- Hair loss together with other changes, such as in weight, energy or periods.
- A loss of density that keeps getting worse.
Low iron, thyroid problems, low vitamin B12 and some medicines can also cause hair loss, so it is worth having these checked.
How to look after your hair
- Eat enough protein, which provides the amino acids needed to make keratin.
- Include iron-, zinc- and selenium-rich foods, and plenty of colourful fruit and vegetables.
- Prioritise sleep and find ways to manage stress.
- Exercise regularly, avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
- Use gentle haircare products and limit heated styling tools.
Nutrients for hair
Zinc and biotin contribute to the maintenance of normal hair. Our Optimum formula contains zinc and selenium, and Hifas-Menopause contains zinc.
Hifas-Menopause
Hifas-Menopause is a hormone-free food supplement that combines organic Reishi, Lion's Mane and Cordyceps sinensis with Ashwagandha root extract, green tea extract, live cultures, vitamins B6 and D and zinc. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity and to normal psychological function. Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, and zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Take two capsules a day as directed on the label.
If you are taking any medication, are under medical supervision or have a hormone-sensitive condition, please speak to your doctor before taking any food supplement. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.