Menopause and Hair Loss

As you approach or navigate the maze that is menopause, one of the most unsettling changes might be the slow, almost imperceptible thinning of your hair. It’s a reality that leaves many of us staring into the mirror, blinking in disbelief. "Wasn’t my hair once thick, voluminous—bordering on wild?" you might wonder, feeling that odd tinge of frustration. And yet, there it is: scalp peeking through, strands now a mere shadow of their former glory.

This concern isn't just mine. A multitude of women, some of whom are my closest friends, others who simply share the same age group, have approached me with a singular request—research this. Write about it. Talk about it. What’s going on with our hair?

I must admit, I wasn’t always the expert I’ve become on the subject. The truth is, that necessity has shaped my knowledge. My hair used to be so thick I could barely secure it with an elastic band. Fast-forward to now, and things have changed—dramatically. So what’s happening? Is it all in my head?

Exploring Solutions: Clip-Ins and Biotin

I’ve dabbled in a few remedies—two, in particular, stand out in my journey: clip-in extensions and biotin supplements. The former, I've played with on and off, while the latter remains untested, largely due to the research I've done. Let’s start with clip-ins. These have been a lifesaver on days when I want to reclaim volume. Quick, painless, and remarkably effective, they’re a great tool to fake the lush hair we once had. Brands are aplenty, but Luxy has earned my trust. I picked a set close to my color, had them dyed to match, and trimmed to blend seamlessly with my natural hair. But a heads-up—if your hair is gray, you might have to look elsewhere, as Luxy doesn’t cater to that shade.

Now, as for biotin, let’s be clear. While many swear by its powers, I’ve hesitated. Biotin, or Vitamin B7, may promise miracles, but its true benefits are most noticeable only if you're actually deficient—something rare. (It’s also a go-to for pregnant or breastfeeding women.) My research points to this fact, and so for me, it’s not the silver bullet I’ve been hoping for.

What’s Happening to Our Hair, Anyway?

So, why the shift in our strands? The culprits: age and menopause, those uninvited guests to our beauty party. While we might mourn the loss of monthly periods and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with them, our hair—well, that’s another story.

Here’s the thing: As time marches on, hair naturally thins, the hairline recedes, and the strands themselves shrink in size. It’s a phenomenon that about 50% of women will experience before they hit the big 5-0. The result? Thinner, finer hair. Often lighter in color. And yes, it’s not your imagination—your hair density has decreased, and you’re seeing more scalp than you ever thought possible.

Genetics play a massive role here, no doubt. But when menopause enters the picture, it often feels like a direct culprit.

Kali Ferrara, a renowned stylist and colorist at the Roy Teeluck Salon in New York City, offers a perspective rooted in science. "Hormonal changes affect everything—especially hair," she says. Puberty is one example: Hair textures change from straight to wavy. Pregnancy, another: Hair flourishes, thickens, grows at an accelerated pace. But menopause? "It's the opposite," Ferrara explains. As estrogen and collagen levels decrease, hair becomes drier, thinner, and more fragile, leaving it lacking the moisture and elasticity it once had. To make matters worse, the hair thinning sometimes mirrors male-pattern baldness—think temples and the crown of your head.

Then there’s the gray. What was once a uniform color now seems coarse, wiry, and parched. A double whammy for our aging strands.

Straight Talk with Kali Ferrara: Hair Questions Answered

I didn’t stop there. I asked Ferrara a few burning questions that many of us have on our minds:

Q: Does hair become more delicate and less sturdy with age?

A: Absolutely. As menopause hits, the hair follicle produces less oil, leading to dry, brittle hair. Without that essential moisture, the hair becomes more prone to breakage.

Q: How do the hairs actually change with age?

A: The hair follicle shrinks as you get older. This means hair grows more slowly and becomes finer. In some cases, the follicle becomes so inefficient that hair growth ceases altogether.

Q: Is processed hair (color, perms, treatments) more vulnerable?

A: Moderation is key. Treatments like color or keratin can be beneficial when done correctly, as they not only add pigment but also hydrate the hair. Highlights, done right, won’t harm your strands. It’s essential to work with a stylist who understands how to nurture your fragile hair.

Q: How often should we color?

A: Every four weeks for coloring, but highlights should be spaced out to every two months. Less stress on your hair equals healthier hair.

Q: What else can we do to protect our hair?

A: Avoid sulfates and parabens. While drugstore products may seem like a bargain, they often contain fillers that clog follicles. Invest in salon-quality products, and don’t shampoo too often—rinsing and conditioning can do wonders. A weekly deep-conditioning mask can work miracles for moisture and protein, especially since regular shampoos might leave your hair nutrient-deprived.

Medication and Treatments

If you're looking for medical solutions, the FDA has approved minoxidil (brand names like Rogaine) for female pattern hair loss, which is a common issue after menopause. It's effective for many, but patience is key. Other options include laser treatments, platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP), and off-label medications like Aldactone and Tagamet.

Remember, hair loss is natural. It’s part of aging, and though it can be frustrating, there are ways to manage it. Whether you’re turning to extensions for a temporary fix, or exploring long-term treatments, you’re not alone in this. Embrace the journey, and keep your head high—even if your hair is a little thinner than it once was.