Our hair growth cycle is intricately connected to the fluctuations of various hormones throughout different stages of life. From puberty to menopause, the hormonal changes women experience can significantly impact the health, texture, and density of their hair. Estrogen and androgen hormones play particularly influential roles in how our hair behaves, and understanding these changes can help women manage their hair health and empower them to make decisions that foster improvement.
The Hormonal Influence on Hair Growth
Our hair growth cycle consists of three phases: the anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting/shedding phase). There are many hormones that effect this process, however, estrogen & androgen hormones fluctuate the most consistently in a woman's life and can have a major impact on her hair.
Puberty & Hair Changes
During puberty, increased levels of androgens (male hormones present in both men and women) can lead to oilier scalps, increased hair growth in some areas, and even early signs of thinning. Hair texture & color can change quite a bit during this period as well.
Pregnancy & Postpartum Hair Health
During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels extend the hair’s growth phase, leading to fuller, healthier locks. However, after childbirth, estrogen drops drastically, causing the postpartum shedding that most moms have experienced. The important thing to remember is: this is temporary IF there are no other factors in your postpartum journey. However, things like PPD, PPA, and stress can prolong this extra shedding phase and slow down regrowth.
Menopause & Hair Thinning
As estrogen and progesterone levels decline during perimenopause, testosterone levels increase. This change can cause thinning, excessive shedding, and even a change in the texture of your hair.
Holistic Ways to Balance Hormones for Healthy Hair
As you progress through the various hormonal shifts in your life, here are some holistic practices that can help to minimize the effects on your hair's health:
Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet: Getting basic nutrients from real foods is the best way to make sure your body can use them!
Manage Stress Levels: High cortisol (the stress hormone) can disrupt hair growth and cause hair to weaken. Practicing meditation, gratitude, deep breathing, and physical exercise can all helps to keep stress under control.
Stay Hydrated: Water is essential for circulation and nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Support Gut Health: A healthy gut helps control the hormonal swings and their effects we experience. Eating whole foods, quality probiotics, and high fiber will help promote healthy gut microbiome.
Prioritize Sleep: Getting adequate sleep helps the body to reset and function at its maximum.
Embrace the Process & Support Your Wellness
This Women’s Month, honor your body & hair by nurturing it from the inside out—because when we understand our bodies, we empower ourselves to look and feel our best. While hormonal changes are inevitable, there are always steps you can take to boost your health along the way!
コメント