Mind Over Menopause

Hair loss and unwanted facial hair are common complaints. Roughly half of all women experience some hair loss during their menopausal years. Two-thirds of post-menopausal women deal with thinning hair or bald spots. Does that make me feel any better?

When you know that hair loss is a widespread problem which you share with many other women, is it any easier to handle? Will we all go down with psychological distress and “impaired social functioning”?

Some hair loss is actually self-induced: The use of harsh chemicals in bleaches, straighteners etc or too-tight hair braiding.

Lovera Wolf Miller, MD, of the North American Menopause Society suggests drinking green tea, getting enough vitamin B6, losing weight, and using hyaluronic acid shampoo. All may be helpful in restoring some hair growth in about three to four months, she says. “Fortunately, the upsides outweigh the downsides of these treatments. There is little to be lost and much to gain”.

My Suggestions

• Cut your hair in short layers. Shorter, layered hair adds fullness and body
• Don’t use combs, but soft brushes and try to avoid things like hair spray. Using a god mousse or soft gel after washing can give your hair additional body without harming the hair.
• Always alternate shampoos – at least once a month.

It takes at least three months to see any difference. I don’t care – I’m starting today.

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