Understanding Hair Loss in Menopause: Causes and What You Can Do About It
- Amanda Prince
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
For many women, menopause brings a host of unexpected changes — and hair loss is one of the most distressing. Thinning hair, excessive shedding, and changes in texture can affect confidence and self-esteem. While it's common, it doesn’t mean you have to simply accept it. Let’s explore why hair loss happens during menopause, and the evidence-based solutions that can help.
Why Does Menopause Cause Hair Loss?
Hair growth is influenced by a delicate balance of hormones. During menopause, this balance shifts dramatically, and the effects are often seen in the mirror ,especially in the hair.
Common causes of menopausal hair loss include:
Hormonal Changes
As oestrogen and progesterone levels drop, hair grows more slowly and becomes thinner. At the same time, androgens (male hormones like testosterone) can become more dominant. This can shrink hair follicles, especially around the crown and temples, leading to female-pattern hair loss.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Menopause can affect nutrient absorption and appetite. Iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B vitamins are all vital for hair health. Even subtle deficiencies can impact the growth cycle.
Stress and Anxiety
Emotional stress, a common companion to menopause, can trigger telogen effluvium — a condition where more hairs than usual shift into the shedding phase.
Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid issues often emerge around midlife, and both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause diffuse hair thinning.
Underlying Medical Conditions or Medications
Autoimmune conditions, anaemia, and medications like antidepressants or blood pressure drugs can contribute to hair loss.
What Might Help with Menopausal Hair Loss?
The good news is that hair loss during menopause is often manageable — especially with early intervention. Here are practical steps and professional treatments to consider:
Review Your Bloods
Ask your healthcare provider to check for:
Iron levels
Vitamin D
Thyroid function
Hormonal profile
Correcting underlying imbalances can significantly improve hair health.
Consider HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
If hair loss is linked to low oestrogen, HRT may help rebalance hormones and slow shedding. For many women, it also improves skin, mood, sleep, and overall wellbeing.
Boost Your Nutrition
Aim for a balanced diet rich in:
Protein (for keratin production)
Iron-rich foods like leafy greens and red meat
Healthy fats (omega-3s support scalp health)
Biotin, zinc, and B-complex vitamins
Supplements designed specifically for hair health in women can also be helpful, especially during times of increased shedding.
Minoxidil (Topical Treatment)
Over-the-counter minoxidil is the only medically approved treatment for female pattern hair loss. It’s applied directly to the scalp and helps stimulate hair follicles and improve density.
Professional Scalp Treatments
Advanced aesthetic treatments such as:
Microneedling with growth factors or exosomes
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
These can improve blood flow and stimulate dormant follicles, especially when hair loss is recent.
Be Kind to Your Hair
Avoid over-brushing, tight hairstyles, and harsh dyes. Use gentle, sulphate-free products and avoid heat where possible.
When to Seek Help
If you're experiencing:
Sudden or patchy hair loss
Noticeable thinning at the crown
Increased hair fall for over 3 months
…it’s worth speaking to a menopause-informed clinician. Early action is key to preserving volume and regrowth potential.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss during menopause is common, but that doesn’t mean it’s untreatable. With the right support, it's possible to slow or reverse thinning and regain your confidence.
At our clinic, we specialise in holistic menopause care, offering personalised plans that address both the root causes and visible symptoms of hair loss.
Book a consultation today if you'd like nutritional advice or want to consider HRT for menopausal symptoms
Regards
Amanda
