6 Reasons Your Hair May Be Thinning

Finding more hair on your pillow in the morning, hair coming out in clumps, or finding less of it to fit into your ponytail? Hair loss and thinning are among the most common and upsetting changes during menopause. But should we always jump to the M-word conclusion? Researchers from Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in London surveyed postmenopausal women aged 45+ and, according to their research, 26% of women experienced generalised scalp hair loss, with 9% reporting frontal hair loss.

Hair thinning is a common symptom of menopause, as hormonal changes and ageing cause follicles to shrink, producing finer hair. However, it can also be a strong indication of an underlying issue, such as nutritional deficiencies, weight loss and thyroid problems that may need further attention. The research also highlighted that postmenopausal hair changes can affect self-esteem and can potentially act as markers for endocrine or metabolic disease. Because symptoms like tiredness and low mood, as well as hair loss, overlap with menopause, the real cause can be easily missed. 

Belle About Town spoke to Dr Abdulaziz Balwi, medical director at the world’s largest hair transplant clinic Elithair, who shared with us six signs your hair might be trying to tell you something beyond menopause symptoms. 

Female pattern hair loss 
Female pattern hair loss, known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in women. It’s characterised by gradual thinning, typically at the crown and along the parting line, and becomes much more likely with age. It affects around 20% of women, and up to 42% after menopause.
As oestrogen and progesterone fall, hair becomes finer and sheds sooner. Treatments can include hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help restore hormonal balance, minoxidil to promote hair growth, and supplements like biotin and iron to support hair health.

Nutritional restriction and deficiencies 
Hair follicles need adequate nutrients to function properly. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, zinc, protein and vitamin B12 may contribute to hair thinning, and a blood test can often identify them. 
If you’re dieting, taking GLP-1, or in a calorie deficit, ensure you’re still fuelling your body with the right nutrients. Include plenty of vitamins, minerals, leafy greens, and foods high in healthy fats and omega -3. 

Thyroid problems 
Your thyroid helps regulate your metabolism and energy levels, and whether it’s underactive or overactive, it can disrupt the hair growth cycle. An underactive thyroid can leave hair dry, brittle, and fragile, while an overactive thyroid can make hair finer, softer, and more prone to breakage. A blood test is worth undertaking if you start to notice hair loss alongside weight changes.

Rapid weight loss 
Tirzepatide, sold under the brand names Zepbound and Mounjaro, is one of the most well-known and powerful weight-loss drugs available. Some people have reported losing 20% or more of their body weight. However, after a few months, your hair can become impacted. The quicker and more dramatic the weight loss, the higher the risk of hair thinning. 
Whether weight is lost through diet, surgery, or weight loss injections, it can result in a loss of vital nutrients to the body, which can impact hair health. Menopause can already make weight hard to manage, so  It’s essential to keep eating the vitamins and nutrients your body needs.

Autoimmune conditions 
Certain autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including alopecia areata and lupus, can lead to hair thinning. With alopecia areata, the immune system mistakenly attacks and kills healthy hair follicles, causing hair loss and eventually, noticeable bald patches. 
What makes it different from many other common causes of hair loss in women is that the bald spots appear without any redness or scarring on the scalp. If you notice these bald patches, speak to your GP.

Telogen effluvium 
Significant physical or emotional stress can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair shedding. Hair usually begins shedding 2-3 months after triggers such as childbirth, major life changes, rapid weight loss, or surgery, and may resolve within 6-9 months. The disrupted sleep, anxiety, and other changes that come with menopause can also contribute. 

When to seek advice 
Thinning hair shouldn’t automatically be written off as a symptom of the menopause. Book an appointment with your GP if your hair loss persists for longer than three months and is accompanied by other symptoms such as extreme fatigue, weight loss, low energy, and an itchy scalp.