With age, it is normal for the hair to thin. But when it becomes more noticeable, it can damage one’s confidence. According to Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, the best dermatologist in Bangalore, menopause-related hair loss is one of the most apparent symptoms of aging, which can make one feel self-conscious. It is crucial for one to know how to reverse hair thinning after menopause. This article will explore effective ways to reverse thin hair after menopause.
But before we proceed, let us take a closer look at why the hair gets thinner after menopause.
Why Does the Hair Get Thinner After Menopause?
There is a significant change in hormone levels during menopause. Estrogen extends the amount of time hair follicles spend in the growth phase of hair growth cycles. Thus, when the estrogen levels decline throughout menopause, the hair could begin to shed more quickly. This decrease can also lead to the development of female pattern hair loss, which is a common cause of hair thinning in older women.
A reduction in estrogen and progesterone causes an imbalance in the male and female sex hormones. This implies that male sex hormones, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is normally present in both men and women, may have a greater effect on hair. Increased hair loss during and after menopause may result from this. Additionally, it may cause body and facial hair growth. If one is experiencing thin hair after menopause, one can consult Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, a leading dermatologist, to get the best hair loss treatment in Bangalore at Charma Clinic.
How to Reverse Hair Thinning After Menopause?
The following ways help one reverse hair thinning after menopause:
1. Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) rebalances the hormones and helps with hair loss. HRT is often used to treat menopausal symptoms, including sleep issues, night sweats and even hot flushes. Restoring the hormones to premenopausal levels with estrogen replacement treatment might lessen the symptoms caused by the changes in hormone levels. Some menopausal women who have a high BP or a history of cancer are not suitable for HRT.
2. Minoxidil
Dermatologists recommend minoxidil as one of the most effective hair loss treatments for menopausal and postmenopausal women. It is also the first line of treatment for all types of alopecia. Unlike HRT, minoxidil does not impact the hormones. It functions by widening the blood arteries in the scalp, allowing more nutrients to enter the hair follicles. It can be a good option if non-hormonal factors contribute to hair loss.
3. Massage the Scalp
The scalp helps increase follicle blood flow to promote healthy hair development. But this isn’t a quick fix, and one must give some time to the treatment to see results. One can begin by giving the scalp a 20-minute massage twice a day. Continue doing this for at least six months to see the noticeable hair growth. To lessen the symptoms of hair damage, one can combine a scalp massage with menopausal hair shampoos, as recommended by a dermatologist.
4. Avoid Heat Styling Hair
Hair straighteners and curlers, which involve heat, can cause hair to become dry and brittle and even break off. Avoid heat-styling hair as much as possible, as it might make the hair appear thinner and can cause hair breakage around the crown.
5. Use Oils
There are some oils that can boost hair growth, especially after menopause. Essential oils for hair growth include:
Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil for hair is a proven natural hair growth remedy.
Black Seed Oil: Black seed oil reduces oxidative stress around the follicles and reduces inflammation.
Pumpkin Seed Oil: Pumpkin seed oil for hair keeps the tresses shiny, healthy and hydrated.
6. Take Vitamin D Supplements
Vitamins for hair growth are not always helpful. If one has a nutritional deficiency, vitamin supplements can help reverse thinning hair after menopause to prevent hair loss. Vitamin D deficiency is likely in menopausal women. This has often been associated with the development of female pattern hair loss. So, one can take a daily vitamin D supplement if they are affected by hair thinning (only if the doctor recommends it).
7. Have a Nutritious Diet
Diet is closely linked with hair loss in postmenopausal and menopausal women. It is vital to have a balanced diet which promotes hair growth. These include:
Protein and Amino Acids: Since protein is essential for hair growth, it is essential to include it in the diet.
Complex Carbohydrates: Starchy, fibrous meals provide energy to our body and promote hair growth.
Healthy Fats: Fatty acids such as omega-3 are important for metabolising fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamin D. However, nutrients should not be obtained solely from supplements; they should be obtained from the diet.
8. Keep a Check on Medications
Some medications are also linked with hair loss. These include:
Medroxyprogesterone, an HRT medication also used to treat PCOS and other women's reproductive health issues
Clonidine, a medication for treating high blood pressure
Gabapentin, an epilepsy medication used to treat menopausal hot flashes
Sertraline, a commonly prescribed antidepressant
One should not stop taking the medications if they think it is linked to hair loss. Instead, they must consult their doctor for an alternative option.
Consult the Top Dermatologist For Hair Loss Treatment
If one is experiencing severe hair loss after menopause, one can consult Dr. Rajdeep Mysore, the best dermatologist in Bangalore, for safe and effective hair loss treatment at Charma Clinic. The expert doctor recommends several treatments for hair loss.
These include advanced growth factors, hair transplant, mesotherapy and microneedling with growth factor treatment.
For more details on hair loss treatments, visit Charma Clinic now!