In this article:

• What is perimenopause?
• Does perimenopause cause hair thinning?
• Is hair thinning from perimenopause permanent?
• How to treat hair thinning in perimenopause

Perimenopause is a phase of life that women go through before reaching menopause. Most women who enter perimenopause naturally will go through this phase characterized by erratic fluctuations in their hormone levels. This change occurs as ovarian function declines, meaning that estrogen levels are not as predictable. Eventually, a woman will reach menopause, which is when she is no longer experiencing menstrual periods and can no longer get pregnant naturally.

Perimenopause often starts when women are in their 40s, but in some cases, it can start in the 30s as well, although this is generally considered premature. This phase can last between 5-8 years.

Because hormones are shifting and are not following the cyclical pattern that women experience before perimenopause, they can experience many symptoms. The most common symptoms of perimenopause include irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.

There are numerous other symptoms women can experience, one of which happens to be hair thinning. Fluctuating estrogen levels are the primary culprit behind hair thinning in perimenopause. Every organ system in a woman’s body has estrogen receptors, including the skin (and its appendages). Thus, when estrogen levels start to decline, it can through off the hair growth cycle. Aside from hair thinning, you may notice the texture of your hair changes as well in perimenopause. For example, it may become fine, coarse, or brittle.

Estrogen may not be the only thing to blame with perimenopause hair thinning. This time of life can also bring with it numerous stressors for women that may also impact their hair. We know that stress can come from many things, and not feeling well (physically and mentally) from fluctuating hormone levels can surely have an impact.

If your hair thinning is from perimenopause, it may be permanent if you do not take certain measures to keep your hair as healthy and vibrant as possible.

Women generally find that their hair changes once they reach menopause. They often describe it as thinner and more fine than it was before this phase. Part of this change is associated with hormone shifts, but it can also be related to normal aging processes. Not to mention, chronic health conditions can start to show up, shifting blood flow away from hair growth and increasing inflammation all over your body.

Of course, not all women will experience hair thinning, and genetics certainly play a role in this as well. Some women at this time may also experience androgenic alopecia, or female pattern baldness, which is much the same as men experience - it just shows up in different patterns.

While going through perimenopause is inevitable, changes to your hair do not necessarily have to be permanent. With some extra care, you can keep your hair vibrant, strong, and healthy well after reaching menopause.

Start with products.

The products you use on your hair will make a big difference in how it looks and feels. Once you enter perimenopause, you may need to switch your products. You will want to opt for a shampoo and conditioner system that helps bring blood flow to your scalp while encouraging hair growth. You cannot find that in most shampoos, so you will want to look at products specially formulated by dermatologists, such as the REVITA shampoo and conditioner.

Eliminate harsh styling practices.

Using hot styling tools regularly is damaging for anyone’s hair, but it can be even more impactful on hair in perimenopause and beyond. Talk to your hairstylist about helping you design new ways to style your hair, or even opt for a fresh haircut.

Eat well.

Getting plenty of nutrients is key to improving your hair health. Diet is the best way to do that, but because some people struggle to get all of the nutrients available in their food, supplements are a great way to ensure you get the vitamins and minerals you need for healthy hair support. The REVITA Nutraceutical Tablets for Hair Growth Support has everything you need to sustain healthy hair.