Noticing these signs can be alarming, but in many cases it is possible to partially or completely recover hair, especially if it is detected and treated early.³
What are the main causes of hair loss during menopause?
During menopause, the production of estrogen and progesterone, key hormones for regulating the hair cycle and maintaining hair follicle function, is reduced. This decrease causes hair to enter the rest phase (telogen phase) earlier and delays the start of a new growth phase (anagen phase).⁴ ⁵
Other factors that also influence this phenomenon are:
- Stress, lack of rest, or intense emotional situations, which can cause significant hair loss (hair effluvium).
- Nutritional deficiencies, such as low levels of iron, zinc, or vitamin D, which are common during this stage.
- Genetic predisposition, especially if there is a family history of alopecia.
- Use of harsh chemicals or excessive heat, which damage both the follicle and the hair structure.
Differences between diffuse hair loss and androgenetic alopecia
During menopause, not all women experience hair loss in the same way. Hormonal changes, stress, or genetic predisposition can cause it to manifest in different ways:
- Diffuse hair loss manifests as a homogeneous loss of hair, without specific areas, and is usually associated with hormonal imbalances, nutritional imbalances, or stress.
- Female androgenetic alopecia, on the other hand, mainly affects the upper and frontal region of the scalp and is characterised by the progressive miniaturisation of the follicle, with a shortening of the anagen phase and a prolongation of the telogen phase.⁶
While diffuse hair loss is usually reversed through combined treatments and habit correction, androgenetic alopecia requires a specific medical approach and ongoing monitoring.
Can hair grow back after menopause?
Yes, in many cases hair that is lost during menopause can be recovered. As long as the hair follicles remain active, hair can regenerate partially or completely. With early diagnosis and tailored treatment, it is possible to stimulate growth and strengthen existing hair.
Nevertheless, when hair loss linked to the menopause has been prolonged or there is a marked genetic predisposition, the capacity for full recovery may be limited. In these cases, medical treatments can significantly improve the density and appearance of hair.
What medical treatments are available to strengthen and reverse thinning hair after menopause?
At Dexeus Midlife, hair loss during menopause is addressed from an integrative medical perspective, which combines different therapeutic options according to the needs of each patient:
- Free support consultation, which offers support and personalised guidance to face this stage with wellbeing in mind.
- Integrative menopause medical visit, performed by a gynaecologist specialising in regenerative and functional gynaecology, who comprehensively evaluates hormonal, emotional, and physical aspects.
- Hormonal treatments, a safe and effective option to relieve menopause symptoms and help restore balance.
This approach seeks to improve overall wellbeing and promote hair health through personalised medical care.
Do you want to talk to an expert team?
You don’t have to go through it alone: We provide you with a specialised team to support you and enhance your quality of life through an innovative and personalised approach.
Daily routines and care to improve hair health
Adopting good habits enhances the effectiveness of medical treatments and helps maintain stronger, healthier hair during this stage⁷ ⁸:
- Follow a balanced diet, with protein, iron, biotin, and essential fatty acids.
- Maintain adequate hydration of the body, as it promotes the health of the follicles.
- Manage stress through exercise, yoga, meditation, or relaxation techniques.
- Avoid frequent use of straighteners, harsh dyes, or chemical treatments.
- Protect your hair from the sun and excessive heat to avoid weakening the hair fibres.
- Perform gentle scalp massages to improve microcirculation.
Natural and complementary treatments
Some women resort to home remedies in their search for menopause hair loss treatment, such as the use of medicinal plants (phytotherapy), yoga, pilates, or nutritional supplements.
Although these options can offer benefits, they are no replacement for medical intervention. Their use must be supported by scientific evidence and supervised by a specialist.³
When is it advisable to consult a specialist?
If hair loss during menopause persists for several months, the volume visibly decreases, or less dense areas appear, a specialised medical evaluation is recommended.
To receive a complete evaluation and design the most appropriate treatment plan, you can make an appointment at the Dexeus Midlife centre. Our medical team, specialised in female hair health and menopause, offers a comprehensive and personalised approach that combines diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing medical follow-up.
Bibliography
¹ National Institute on Aging (NIA). Menopause. https://www.nia.nih.gov/espanol/menopausia/menopausia
² Breastcancer.org. Hair changes during menopause. https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment-side-effects/menopause/hair-changes
³ Dexeus Midlife. Menopause and hair. https://www.dexeus.com/midlife/sintoma/menopausia-y-pelo/
⁴ WebMD. Causes of hair loss in women. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/women-hair-loss-causes
⁵ MedlinePlus. Menopause. U.S. National Library of Medicine . https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/000894.htm
⁶ Rivera R, Guerra-Tapia A. Management of androgenetic alopecia in postmenopausal women. Dermatological and Syphilitic Records, 2008. https://www.actasdermo.org/es-manejo-alopecia-androgenetica-mujeres-posmenopausicas-articulo-S0001731008746738
Oriol Gili
A chemist specialised in dermopharmacy and women’s health with more than 5 years of experience in pharmaceutical advice applied to skin care.
