Perimenopause vs. Menopause: How Hormonal Changes Impact Hair Retention & What You Can Do About It
For many women, perimenopause and menopause bring noticeable changes—not just to the body, but also to hair health and retention. If you've been experiencing thinning, increased shedding, or difficulty maintaining strong, healthy hair, you're not alone.
At The Press Room Salon, we understand the connection between hormonal changes and hair health, and we’re here to help you navigate this transition while keeping your hair strong and vibrant. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between perimenopause and menopause, how they impact hair retention, and personalized steps to maintain healthy hair as your body changes.
What’s the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?
Many women use the terms perimenopause and menopause interchangeably, but they represent different stages of hormonal transition. Understanding the distinction can help you better manage the changes affecting your hair and overall health.
1. Perimenopause: The Transition Phase
✔ Typically begins in the 40s (but can start earlier)
✔ Hormonal fluctuations cause irregular menstrual cycles
✔ Estrogen and progesterone levels decline gradually
✔ Can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years before menopause
Common hair-related symptoms during perimenopause:
Increased hair shedding and thinning
Changes in scalp oil production (drier or oilier than usual)
Weakened hair strands, leading to more breakage
2. Menopause: The Full Transition
✔ Officially begins one year after your last menstrual cycle
✔ Estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly
✔ Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes are common
✔ Usually occurs between ages 45-55, but timing varies
How menopause affects hair:
Hair may grow slower and become finer
Thinning may become more noticeable at the crown and temples
Scalp sensitivity or increased dryness can occur
Hair growth cycles shorten, causing increased shedding
The major difference is that perimenopause is the transition phase, where hormones fluctuate, while menopause is the final phase, where hormone levels permanently decline. Both stages can impact hair retention, but the extent and speed of changes vary per person.
How Perimenopause & Menopause Affect Hair Retention
The most common issue women face during this time is hormonal hair thinning, also known as androgenic alopecia or female pattern hair loss.
✔ Estrogen declines → Slows hair growth and reduces the hair’s thickness
✔ Testosterone impact increases → Can lead to hair thinning at the crown
✔ Reduced collagen production → Weakens hair structure and scalp elasticity
✔ Slower cell turnover → Hair takes longer to grow and replenish
While these changes are natural, there are ways to retain more hair, strengthen your strands, and improve overall scalp health.
Steps to Keep Your Hair Healthy During Perimenopause & Menopause
1. Focus on Scalp Health
A healthy scalp creates the foundation for stronger, fuller hair.
✔ Use scalp-stimulating treatments with peppermint, rosemary, or caffeine to increase blood circulation.
✔ Incorporate a scalp massager in your routine to promote follicle activity.
✔ Avoid harsh sulfate shampoos, which can strip natural oils.
2. Optimize Nutrition & Hydration
What you eat directly impacts your hair retention and strength.
✔ Increase protein intake (lean meats, fish, beans) to support keratin production.
✔ Add omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts) to nourish the scalp.
✔ Stay hydrated—dehydration can lead to dry, brittle hair.
✔ Consider collagen supplements to improve hair elasticity and thickness.
3. Adjust Your Haircare Routine
Your hair’s needs change, so your routine should, too.
✔ Use hydrating shampoos and deep conditioners to restore moisture.
✔ Avoid heavy product buildup, which can weigh down thinning hair.
✔ Switch to low-heat styling and always use a heat protectant.
✔ Trim split ends regularly to prevent excessive breakage.
4. Reduce Stress & Balance Hormones Naturally
Chronic stress can accelerate hair thinning. Managing stress helps regulate hormones.
✔ Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
✔ Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night to aid cellular regeneration.
✔ Consider talking to a doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or natural supplements like biotin and saw palmetto.
5. Explore Professional Hair Treatments
For those experiencing severe hair thinning, professional treatments can make a difference.
✔ Microneedling for the scalp – Boosts circulation and promotes growth.
✔ Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) – Helps stimulate follicles.
✔ Keratin and deep conditioning treatments – Strengthen weak strands.
At The Press Room Salon, we offer customized hair and scalp treatments designed to nurture your hair during hormonal transitions.
Final Thoughts: Hair Retention is Possible at Any Age
While perimenopause and menopause bring changes, they don’t have to mean the end of strong, beautiful hair. With the right approach to scalp care, nutrition, and hair maintenance, you can reduce shedding, improve hair thickness, and retain length.
At The Press Room Salon, we believe that healthy hair is achievable at any stage of life. Our team is here to help you navigate these changes with expert haircare services, customized treatments, and professional advice tailored to your needs.
Book a consultation today to get a personalized hair retention plan and keep your tresses thriving through every phase of life.