What's really happening
As estrogen and progesterone levels drop, hair growth slows and shedding increases. You might notice more strands in your brush, hair that feels thinner or doesn’t grow as fast, or a widening part—especially at the crown or temples. It’s not in your head. It’s in your hormones.
But why?
Estrogen helps hair grow longer and thicker. When it drops, hair growth slows—and testosterone’s effects can become more visible.
Scientific Breakdown
Estrogen supports the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and helps keep follicles healthy and nourished. When estrogen and progesterone decline, the anagen phase shortens, and more follicles shift into telogen (shedding). In some women, increased sensitivity to androgens like dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causes follicular miniaturization—leading to thinner, finer hair or visible scalp.
• ↓ Estrogen = shorter hair growth phase
• ↓ Progesterone = increased shedding
• ↑ Androgens (like DHT) = follicle shrinkage and thinning
Essentially…
Your hormones are literally changing the way your hair grows, sheds, and cycles. This is common—and it’s treatable.
🔗 [Deep Dive: Hormones & Hair Health → coming soon]
See a doctor if …
• Sudden or patchy hair loss
• Receding temples or circular bald spots
• Hair falling out in clumps
• Accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or weight gain
• Iron or vitamin D deficiency
• Thyroid issues
• Alopecia areata
• Telogen effluvium (stress-triggered shedding)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about
Hair Thinning / Loss
Q: Is this permanent?
Not necessarily. Many women see regrowth or slowed loss with treatment.
Q: Will HT make it stop?
HT may help regulate the hormonal imbalances driving hair loss—but it’s usually part of a full toolkit.
Q: Should I take biotin?
Maybe. Biotin helps if you’re deficient, but more isn’t always better—check with a provider.
“I thought I had to chop all my hair off. But once I started progesterone and added scalp serum and collagen, the shedding finally slowed. My ponytail feels like me again.”
— FLUXX community member, age 47
FLUXX Recommendations
1. Get a full hormone + nutrient panel (including ferritin, thyroid, vitamin D)
2. Explore low-androgen HT options and topical support like minoxidil
3. Support follicle health with gentle, targeted scalp care and stress reduction
Non-Hormonal Medications
• Minoxidil (Rogaine) over-the-counter, effective for many women
• Prescription anti-androgens (e.g., spironolactone) may be used with supervision
• Saw palmetto (blocks DHT conversion)
• Rosemary oil or peppermint oil scalp treatments
• Nutrient-rich foods and supplements: biotin, zinc, B vitamins, iron
Lifestyle Suggestions
• Ditch tight hairstyles and high-heat tools
• Scalp massages to improve circulation
• Manage stress (which directly impacts the hair growth cycle)
Myth-Busting
Hair loss is a menopause symptom for many—despite the silence around it.
Modern Guidance
HT may help preserve hair in some women. Minoxidil (Rogaine), gentle hair care routines, and checking thyroid or iron levels can also help. Be wary of expensive treatments with no evidence—stick with proven options.
Ask yourself
• “Is my hair thinning all over, or just on top?”
• “Do I have a family history of female pattern hair loss?”
• “Would I prefer a topical approach, or hormonal?”
Ask your doctor
• “Could my hair thinning be related to menopause?”
• “Can we check my ferritin, thyroid, and hormones?”
• “Is minoxidil safe for me to try?”
HT is generally low risk when customized—but may not be sufficient on its own for androgenic thinning.
