Is Menopause Stealing Your Hair?
For most women, their hair is their most important accessory. It’s their identity. Unfortunately, during menopause, Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) – the result of genetics, stressors, and hormonal changes in a woman’s body – is a common and often distressing experience for many women. While symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings tend to get more attention, gradual hair loss—especially at the crown or along the part—can feel just as disruptive and deeply personal.
FPHL – diagnosed as androgenic alopecia – affects nearly 30 million women in the United States. Hair thinning occurs around the top of the head or at the hairline’s natural part. Bald spots may begin to form, resulting in patches of total hair loss.
Hormonal change is a key reason this occurs during menopause. As a woman’s estrogen and progesterone levels decline, androgens (like testosterone and its byproduct Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) become more dominant. DHT can shrink hair follicles, shorten the hair growth cycle, and lead to finer, weaker strands. Eventually, these follicles stop producing hair altogether.
Science points to other contributing factors including genetics, thyroid imbalances, low iron or vitamin D, chronic stress, and age-related metabolic changes. All of these will influence a woman’s hair growth cycle, especially during a time of major hormonal transition.
HRT Can Help
Recent research suggests that hormone replacement therapy may play a helpful role in reducing menopausal hair loss. Estrogen-based HRT has shown potential in improving the appearance of the frontal hairline and strengthening hair overall. One study even found that estradiol helped increase hair retention strength, regardless of age, pointing to its direct impact on hair follicle function.
However, results vary from woman to woman. For example, some women respond well to HRT and see hair improvements, while others notice no change or worsening symptoms. That’s because not all hormone therapies are the same.
Estrogen-based HRT may support the hair cycle, while progesterone-based therapy has, in some cases, been linked to hair shedding. Some synthetic hormone treatments may also have a negative impact on hair, depending on a woman’s sensitivity. Testosterone therapy, which is occasionally used for menopausal symptoms, can also have mixed effects. Some women report improved hair growth, while others note increased thinning due to higher sensitivity to androgens.
Other Options
For women where HRT isn’t an option, or they’re not experiencing the results they’d hoped for, there are other avenues to address menopausal hair thinning. Nutritional support also plays a crucial role—iron, protein, vitamin D, B12, and zinc all contribute to maintaining healthy hair.
Additionally, managing stress levels, getting regular sleep, and using gentle hair care practices can make a difference. Similarly, avoiding harsh styling products, excessive heat, and tight hairstyles will protect fragile hair and reduce breakage.
Remember, hair loss during menopause is common in women, but it's not something you have to silently accept. Understanding the hormonal connection arms you with the tools to take control—whether that’s through hormone therapy, medical treatments, or simple lifestyle changes.
As always, women are encouraged to consult their primary healthcare provider with any questions about the best options to counter hair loss.
Kelly Rigo is the creative force behind Menopause Evolution.