From Luscious to Limp: The Hormonal Influence on Hair and Scalp Health

Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle:

Before delving into the hormonal impact on hair and scalp health, it's important to understand the basics of the hair growth cycle. The cycle consists of three phases: the anagen phase (growth), the catagen phase (transition) and the telogen phase (resting and shedding). Hormones regulate this cycle in a complicated way and ensure the proper growth, duration and shedding of hair.

Hormonal Players in Hair Health:

1. Oestrogen: Often referred to as the "hair-friendly" hormone, it contributes to the overall hair health, thickness and shine. It prolongs the anagen phase, promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss. However, fluctuations in oestrogen levels, e.g. during pregnancy or menopause, can lead to hair thinning or excessive hair loss.
   
   
2. Progesterone: Progesterone is a natural inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase due to its high affinity for the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme compared to testosterone. If progesterone is present, this may decrease 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone synthesis, which is what causes androgen driven miniaturisation of the hair follicle. During menopause, the reduction in progesterone is known to increase the impact of androgens on the hair follicles and sebaceous glands.
   
   
3. Androgens: Androgens, including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are typically considered male hormones but are also found in women. Although they're necessary for various bodily functions, high androgen levels can affect hair health. Androgens can cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss, thinning and eventually androgenetic alopecia.
   
   
4. Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) play a crucial role in regulating metabolism in the body, including hair growth. An imbalance of thyroid hormones, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss, dryness and brittleness.

Hormonal Changes and Hair Loss:

1. Postpartum Hair Loss: Many new mothers suffer from postpartum hair loss, also known as telogen effluvium. After childbirth, oestrogen levels decline significantly, causing more hair follicles to go dormant and eventually fall out. This temporary condition usually resolves within a few months.
   
   
2. Menopause and Hair Loss: During menopause, hormonal fluctuations occur, especially a decline in oestrogen and progesterone levels. This hormonal change can lead to hair thinning, shortening of the hair growth cycle, and resultant reduction in hair volume. During the menopausal transition, total testosterone remains unchanged while female hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone decrease markedly, creating a state of relative androgen excess. This change in the testosterone to oestrogen ratio during the menopausal transition gives rise to a situation of relative androgen excess which typically exacerbates hair loss during this phase of a woman's life.
   
   
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterised by increased androgen levels in women. Excess androgens can lead to hair thinning, hirsutism (excessive hair growth in unwanted areas) and male pattern hair loss. Managing hormone levels through medical interventions and lifestyle changes can help mitigate these effects.

Care for Hormone-Imbalanced Hair and Scalp:

1. Balanced Diet: A diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants supports healthy hair growth. Foods such as fish, eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and fruits provide essential nutrients that promote hair health. Adequate protein intake is also important for healthy hair growth as hair follicles are mostly made of protein, and insufficient protein intake will result in thinner and weaker hair.
   
   
2. Scalp Care: Maintaining a clean and balanced scalp environment is crucial. Regular scalp care, gentle massages and avoiding harsh hair products can foster optimal conditions for hair growth.
   
   
3. Seeking Professional Guidance: Consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional who specialises in hair and scalp health can provide personalised insights and treatment options for hormone-related hair concerns.

Conclusion:

The hormonal impact on hair and scalp health is undeniable. Understanding how hormones affect the hair growth cycle and recognising the impact of hormonal changes can help you make informed decisions about your hair care. With a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, proper scalp care and professional guidance when needed, you can restore your hair and scalp to health and maintain luscious locks regardless of hormonal fluctuations.

To learn more about hair loss treatments, contact Angeline Yong Dermatology to find out more.

Angeline Yong Dermatology
6 Napier Road, #02-04/05

Gleneagles Medical Centre

Singapore 258499
T: +65 6252 0026 |E: info@ayd.com.sg | W: ayd.com.sg

About

Dr Angeline Yong possesses in-depth knowledge and expertise in the field of dermatology and has extensive experience with a wide range of hair loss treatments. From medications to laser therapy and hair transplantation, Dr Yong offers comprehensive solutions in addressing various forms of hair loss conditions.