We all dream of strong, healthy hair, but did you know that your hormones play a major role in its growth, strength, and overall vitality? From the fullness of your locks to unexpected hair loss, hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact your hair’s health. Here’s how hormones influence your strands and what you can do to support your hair naturally.

The role of hormones in hair growth

Hair growth occurs in cycles, and hormones are crucial in regulating these cycles. The key hormones affecting hair health include:

1. Oestrogen

Oestrogen, commonly referred to as the “female hormone,” helps maintain hair growth in the anagen (growth) phase for longer periods. High oestrogen levels, such as during pregnancy, can result in thick, luscious hair. However, after childbirth or during menopause, when oestrogen levels drop, hair may become thinner and more prone to shedding.

2. Testosterone & Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Testosterone is present in both men and women, but in different amounts. When converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), it can shrink hair follicles and lead to hair thinning or loss, especially in individuals genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). Additionally, conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to increased testosterone levels, which may contribute to hair thinning or excess hair growth in other areas.

3. Progesterone

This hormone helps balance the effects of oestrogen and testosterone. When progesterone levels drop, which often happens with age, testosterone can convert more readily to DHT, contributing to hair thinning.

4. Cortisol (The Stress Hormone)

High stress levels lead to increased cortisol production, which can push hair follicles into the resting phase (telogen), causing excess shedding. Chronic stress may also trigger conditions like telogen effluvium, leading to temporary but noticeable hair loss.

5. Thyroid Hormones

An imbalance in thyroid hormones—whether hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)—can lead to brittle, thinning hair or excessive shedding. If you’re experiencing unexplained hair changes along with fatigue, weight fluctuations, or dry skin, it might be worth checking your thyroid levels.

How to Support Your Hair Naturally

While hormones fluctuate throughout life, there are ways to support hormonal balance and promote healthy hair growth:

• Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Focus on whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals like biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. For an extra boost, we'd recommend Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Nutrient Tablets to help you on your way.
  
  
• Oil Your Hair Regularly: Oiling your hair can deeply nourish, hydrate, and strengthen your strands. It helps protect hair from damage, improves scalp health, and promotes healthy hair growth by increasing circulation. Use oils like coconut, argan, or avocado for their nourishing properties, or try Fushi Wellbeing's Really Good Hair Oil, which combines Ayurvedic ingredients like Brahmi and Neem to repair, hydrate, and support hair growth. Massaging the oil into your scalp can also help reduce stress, which is beneficial for minimising hair shedding.
  
  
• Manage Stress: Try mindfulness, yoga, or meditation to keep cortisol levels in check.
  
  
• Postpartum Hair Support: If you’re dealing with postpartum hair loss, look for products designed to specifically support new mothers. The Myrtle & Maude Postpartum Hair Growth Mask is a fantastic option, formulated with pea sprout extract to promote hair growth and reduce shedding. It also contains organic aloe vera to nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles. Infused with a soothing aromatherapy blend, it’s safe to use while breastfeeding, making it an ideal solution for new moms navigating hormonal hair changes.
  
  
• Balance Your Hormones: Consider natural supplements or herbal adaptogens like ashwagandha and saw palmetto (but always consult a healthcare professional first).
  
  
• Use Gentle Hair Care: Avoid excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments that can exacerbate hair breakage.
  
  
• Check Your Hormones: If you’re experiencing persistent hair issues, consider speaking with a healthcare provider to test for hormonal imbalances.
  

Final Thoughts

Hormones are powerful regulators of your hair health. While some fluctuations are natural, understanding their impact can help you take proactive steps to nourish your strands from within. By making small, hormone-friendly lifestyle changes, you can work towards stronger, healthier hair at any stage of life.

Looking for hormone-friendly hair care? Explore our selection of natural haircare products at Unfabled.