Hair Changes with Menopause
A variety of physical changes come along with menopause. Hair is one of the body’s key elements that is affected during this time. Though everyone has a different experience, the general pattern is hair thinning and loss on the scalp and eyebrows, as well as a surge in facial hair growth.
According to the “British Journal of Dermatology”, about 39% of post-menopausal women experience an increased level of hair growth on facial areas including: upper lip, cheeks, ear, and most of all, on the chin. These hairs could be “peach fuzz” or thick, dark hairs that sprout randomly. Some women experience new growth of all types of hairs, or just changes in thickness. The truth is that most of these hairs have already been on the face, but just become more noticeable because of hormonal changes. Although many people believe that hair changes are related to estrogen, it is actually several hormones at work that are prompting these changes, as well as the relationship between them. A decrease in progesterone, androgen and estrogen during menopause seemingly causes hair loss. A simultaneous increase in testosterone can lead to excess hair in unwanted areas.
There are several non-hormonal factors that affect hair fluctuations, such as: stress level, genetic predisposition, diet and nutritional deficiencies, medicines, activity level, and medical conditions. If hair growth is sudden, it may be a good idea to speak with a doctor to rule out a medical condition. Some ways to combat hair loss include medication options (such as injections, creams or steroids) and lifestyle changes (like reducing stress, increasing protein and B6 vitamins and losing weight). There are many treatments available and many physicians recommend a multi-faceted approach and close tracking of progress along the way. It’s important to be patient and avoid stopping treatment even if it seems like an improvement hasn’t been made yet. Both primary care doctors, endocrinologists and dermatologists can offer support and recommend a hair growth treatment based on your individual situation.
On the other hand, unwanted, excess hair can be very frustrating for women as well. One quick and common solution is plucking random hairs with a tweezers. The problem with plucking is that it can stimulate the hair follicle into an active growth phase, prompting it to grow back thicker, quicker and darker, which clearly no one wants! Shaving is very time consuming and women find it bothersome to shave daily or several days a week. Waxing is one of the most painful options. Laser often leads to temporary results. These options to do not solve the problem permanently.
Though everyone woman goes through menopause at some point in their life, it’s important to know that there are solutions available for unwanted physical changes that come along with it. For women that have an increase of unwanted hair growth, electrolysis is the most effective fix. It is permanent, safe and comfortable. Book an appointment today with Limoges Electrolysis for a free consultation!