Dealing with hair loss can be a distressing journey for many women, particularly as we age and hormonal shifts take place. Understanding the underlying causes and exploring effective solutions can make a significant difference. Here’s a comprehensive look at the causes of hair loss for women going through the perimenopause to menopause transition and some cool new solutions to tackle this common issue.
Understanding the Causes
1. Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in hair loss patterns, making it crucial to consider genetic predispositions.
2. Illness, Surgery, or Rapid Weight Loss: These events can trigger hair shedding, especially if protein intake is inadequate for hair health while you are shedding the pounds
3. Emotional Stress: Stress is a big contributor to hair loss, impacting hormone levels and overall well-being. I don’t know any woman in mid-life who has a stress-free life, but I do know women who manage the stress very well. It’s not the stress that causes the hair loss. It’s our perception and reaction to it.
4. Hormonal Imbalances: Thyroid dysfunction, estrogen deficiency, excess testosterone, or cortisol irregularities can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient intake, or excess, of certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron and B vitamins, can affect hair health.
6. Harsh Hair Styling, Products or Treatments: Chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, poor quality hair products and tight hairstyles can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
7. Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like alopecia areata involve the immune system attacking hair follicles, resulting in hair loss.
8. Scarring Alopecia: This condition causes irreversible hair loss due to scarring of the scalp tissue.
9. Smoking: Tobacco use has been linked to hair loss due to its impact on blood circulation and oxidative stress. I hope you already quit!
Exploring Solutions
I did a great Zoom call with Holistic Nutritionist Sandy Kruse. This is a MUST watch for a deeper dive into this article. Click here.
Aside from addressing underlying health issues and lifestyle factors, consider these innovative solutions to combat hair loss effectively:
1. Red Light Therapy: Devices like the Flexbeam utilize red light to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth. Use discount code ZORA here.
2. Black Cumin Seed Oil: This natural remedy has shown promise in improving hair thickness and health.
3. Stress Management Techniques: Practices like journaling, meditation, walks in nature, supplements like ashwaganda or using devices like Sensate or NuCalm can help mitigate the effects of stress on hair. Use code ZB10-off for 10% off NuCalm here. I do ALL of these techniques, but what I find is the most effective) and the hardest to implement) is changing our perception of the stressor and/or taking action to resolve it.
4. Cold Plunges: Cold exposure therapy can enhance circulation and promote hair growth. If stress is contributing to the hair thinning, an ice bath may help you manage the stress. Seek guidance from a qualified cold therapist before jumping into the ice.
5. Increasing Oxytocin: Activities that boost oxytocin levels, such as physical touch and intimacy, may positively impact hair health. You can even get intimate by looking someone directly into their eyes, sharing heart felt complements or stroking a pet! Because this can all lower our stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine, it may have an impact on hair thickening back.
6. Hair Care Systems: Consider comprehensive systems like the Fully Vital system, which includes supplements, hair serum, and a scalp roller. Use code ZORA15 for 15% off here. My 25 year old son uses this and it works.
7. Protein Intake: Adequate protein consumption is essential for hair growth and repair.
Generally, most women are good to start with 1g protein per pound of body weight or 30g per meal three times a day. Adjust up or down depending how active or sedentary you are
8. Spermidine: This compound has shown potential in reducing hair loss and even reversing graying in some individuals. About 30% of the women I have recommended Primeadine spermidine have told me their gray hair has either gone or reduced significantly. Even hair “down there”. Get Primeadine for 15% off here.
9. Minoxidil (Rogaine): Widely recognized for its effectiveness in promoting hair growth, although potential side effects should be considered (low blood pressure and heart palpitations).
10. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: This therapy involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (derived from your own blood from your arm) into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles. I tried 2 rounds of PRGF (Platelet Rich Growth Factors) injections, which is supposedly more powerful than PRP and it didn’t work for me. My thinning hair was due to suboptimal thyroid.
11. Heavy Metal Detox: Heavy metal toxicity can contribute to hair loss, so detoxification may be beneficial. Get tested first. If high levels of metals are circulating in the body, it will be harder to combat thinning hair that is due to other causes, such as hormones. Grab a heavy metal test kit from Quicksilver Scientific. I took this one myself and I am convinced of the efficacy. Use code ZORA15 for 15% off here.
12. Hair Care Products: Opt for products with minimal chemicals and fragrances to avoid exacerbating hair loss. Look for a short ingredient list and fragrance free. If you find a super ingredient for thinning hair, you can always experiment with it even if it doesn’t cut the list. I like the brand Urtekram.
13. Peptides: Various peptides, such as GHK-Cu and collagen peptides, show promise in promoting hair growth and health. I don’t notice any difference when I use collagen peptide powders/supplements. I still take it for my joints, but I know some women do actually see a difference in their hair with a good quality collagen peptide. I would look into the brand Vital Proteins or any type of collagen that uses the trademark Fortigel..
While exploring these solutions, it’s essential to note that individual responses may vary. That’s why we are biohackers! Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance and ensure safe and effective treatment options.
Additionally, sharing experiences and insights within communities, like our private membership group Biohacking Menopause, can offer valuable support and recommendations for managing hair loss effectively. Join us today!