Thinning Hair – Solutions & Maintenance Tips
Hair is just such an important feature, at least for me. I remember my dad saying that he married my mother because of her long, thick and luscious braid, adding that a woman’s hair is her most significant and beautiful adornment.
I agree to this day, yet the maintenance of this adornment is becoming more and more challenging as the years go by.
More than a “bad hair day”
Commonly in the months or years leading up to menopause, during it and after, some women notice a change in their hair pattern.
Usually, ladies notice the volume & overall condition of the hair worsening, with some women reporting that hair does not grow as much as previously, especially at the front.
Worryful showers and hair brushing were at times my reality… It’s not easy to accept the changes you’re going through when aging.
Some women experience a more profound hair loss, with thinning at the crown of the head, the sides or more general hair thinning all over the head. This is described as Female pattern hair loss (FPHL).
A complete loss of hair, as seen in men who sometimes go bald, is much rarer in women and is usually caused by a medical condition or by medical treatment such as chemotherapy.
We have so many ladies having gone through chemo and our eyelash and eyebrow products have done wonders to them. I really wish we could create a haircare line that works so well one day as well!
Why does this happen?
FPHL is very common and increases with age. What’s interesting is that it varies across ethnic groups.
Although it can happen at any age, the condition occurs most commonly following the menopause. This does not mean that hormones alone are to blame, although oestrogen may have a protective role, helping to keep hair in the ‘growing phase’.
Age itself is a factor and whilst women can take care of their hair cosmetically, it is one aspect of the ageing process we cannot always control, sadly, or luckily (for my fellow control freaks out there).
Genetics are also worth mentioning. Occasionally times of acute stress on the body will influence hair growth (e.g. illness, emotional stresses and crash dieting). Some medications may have an influence too.
What’s in my power?
For some – a lot. For others, on the other hand, not too much. I have 5 points I want to mention in this regard. They are the following:
- Review your habits!
The appearance of menopausal hair loss can sometimes be improved by cosmetic practices such as reducing the use of straighteners, super hot hair dryers and other damaging heat tools.
This along with the use of thickening shampoos and conditioners may improve hair appearance. Maybe you could send us your favourites so we could create a list of the ones most mentioned. I would love this to become a thing for our Rumi community – helping each other and sharing knowledge.
- “You are what you eat” bulls*it
Not bulls*it, actually, even though some might think so. Eating good food and listening to your body is of high importance. It will affect every challenge that comes with aging, including thinning hair.
I love a quote by Jay Shetty: “It’s easy because we have heard of it millions of times and it’s difficult because we don’t follow it.”
A healthy, varied diet is a contributing factor to a healthy body, so a nutritional review may be helpful. There are many available now including some that could be done at home! So easy!
- Topical solutions?
There are hundreds and thousands of these in order to increase hair growth. Serums, sprays, masks, essential oils, plasma treatments, you name it!
These usually take several months to take effect and must be used on an ongoing basis. Consult your doctor or hairdresser, they will for sure be more knowledgeable than us.
- From laser removal to laser stimulating, how far have we come!
Laser devices that emit low-energy laser light may stimulate hair growth to help fight thinning hair. I haven’t tried this one myself, but have read a lot about great results from ladies all around the world!
Laser therapy is best carried out by a hairdresser or therapist with experience and training on these devices. The only concern that I have is that long-term safety and effectiveness are unknown, as far as I know. On the other hand, many of these lasers (I have seen laser bands on Facebook) can be bought for use at home, so I guess everything should be fine. Maybe someone has used any of these?
If you’re too scared of such, hair extensions, clip-in hairpieces or wigs might do the job just right.
- Let’s talk supplements!
There is a wide variety of supplements specifically for hair-growth and many multi-purpose, usually covering nails and skin as well. You may find some in your local pharmacy or order online, but consulting with a professional is always advisable!
Collagen might also be something worth-considering. As we mature, our bodies naturally create less of it, which can contribute to the signs of aging such as weak and thinning hair.
There are different blends of nutrients including collagen, biotin and many vitamins for thicker and healthier hair. Ah, that's another thing I hope to have on our future products list!
Unfortunately, the capsules or powders we consume can also have quite a different outcome. Some medications have side effects that could include hair loss. Make sure to talk to your doctor if you’ve noticed significant hair loss and you think that your medicine might be the cause.
- Save what you have!
I can’t stress enough how important the hairbrush you’re using is! The bristles, the quality, everything!
A soft brush bristle made from natural materials such as boar hair is something I have heard many ladies using. These will ensure your hair is protected and add increased circulation at your scalp which creates a perfect environment for your hair to grow and/or regrow!
Opt for a medium/small size to easily reach the roots of your hair which will result in more volume (something I always struggle with).
The shape of your hairbrush will also matter! Round or vented brushes can make it easier to bulk up hair when styling with a blowdryer. A vented round brush would probably work best as it will allow heat to pass through the brush so your hair can benefit from maximum styling volume.
Silk pillowcases are another investment I would highly suggest! It’s not only good for your hair, but also skin and overall health. Plus, it’s super cozy and luxurious-feeling!
To conclude…
All in all, caring for your hair isn’t always easy and cheap, but it’s something worth-investing in, at least in my personal opinion. Thinning hair is a real problem and gladly I’m not the only one experiencing it.
And not only the hair on your head - how many letters have I read about our beauty hair getting thin & sparse and how incredibly happy I am to read and see (thank you for your sweet photo attachments) that our serums actually work for you!
If you haven't tried LashCare+ and BrowCare+... I think 2022 is the year, hun!
Both eyelash and eyebrow serums are the true magic elixirs as per your reviews and I couldn't be more excited for you to try out our products for thinning hair in the future!
I hope you find peace with your hair situation this new year of 2022 as getting ready may sometimes result in being upset over how your hair doesn’t look the same as it did 15 years ago. I try to accept change, even welcome it and work with what I have. After all, it’s not about the way you look, but what’s in your heart that matters.
Love & warm greetings,
Kate <3
