Hair Thinning and Hair Loss
Estrogen is related to hair growth and subsequent hair loss. For instance, a pregnant woman’s estrogen levels are naturally higher than normal. This, in turn, stimulates more hair follicles to grow faster. As a result, women with high estrogen levels have full, thick hair than those with unusually low estrogen production.
When the levels of estrogen drop, this occurrence signals the hair follicles to grow at a slower rate and becomes thinner. This also means that hair growth is slower than usual. Estrogen reduction also stimulates the production of androgens, a group of hormones that are predominant in men. Androgen may shrink the size of hair follicles leading to hair loss.
The good news is that, unlike genetic hair loss, hair thinning caused by low estrogen levels is a reversible condition. As estrogen and progesterone imbalances usually happen during menopause, doctors will prescribe estrogen replacement to stimulate hair growth. More natural ways to reduce the risk for hair loss and hair thinning may include stress reduction techniques, exercise, a well-balanced diet, and increased fluid intake. Avoiding hair products that contain harsh chemicals and heating tools will also help reduce hair thinning issues for women with low estrogen levels.
