Hair Growth And Menstrual Cycles: The Surprising Connection

From hair loss to surprise spurts of facial hair growth during periods–your period doesn’t just affect your mood; it also messes with your mane. 

What’s Behind Hair Loss During Menstruation?

Here’s the breakdown of why your hair seems to be going through its own existential crisis during your period:

  1. 1. Hormonal Imbalance

The drop in oestrogen and surge in progesterone can lead to hair loss during menstruation and, for some, even result in facial hair growth during periods.

    1. 2. Iron Deficiency in Women

    Low iron levels are a major culprit behind hair thinning during periods and can worsen hair loss in women.

      1. 3. Stress and Lifestyle Choices

      Stress, poor sleep, and bingeing on unhealthy snacks can all aggravate hair loss during ovulation or menstruation.

        1. 4. Nutrient Deficiencies

        Not getting enough vitamins for hair health during periods—like B12, D, and zinc—can leave your hair looking dull and lifeless.

          Is It Normal to Lose More Hair During Your Period?

          Yes, completely normal. The average person loses 50–100 strands of hair daily, but during your period, it might feel like more. If it seems excessive or continues beyond your cycle, check for culprits like iron deficiency in women or hormonal imbalances. 

          Here are a few tips to help reduce hair loss during your period- 

          1. 1. Iron to the Rescue
          • Add iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and red meat to your plate. Heavy flow? Consider supplements to combat iron deficiency in women.

          Foods like lentils are rich in iron and help combat hair loss

          1. 2. Mind Your Vitamins
          • Consult your healthcare professional to get a better idea on which vitamins are required for your hair health.
          • A few vitamins to keep an eye out for are B12, D, and zinc which can work wonders for your hair—and your mood.

          1. 3. Be Gentle with Your Hair
          • Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh tools, and heat styling during your cycle. Your hair deserves some extra love to fight hair loss during menstruation.

          1. 4. Hydrate Like a Pro
          • Wash your hair whenever it feels greasy, but stick to a gentle shampoo and avoid overdoing it. Overwashing can strip your scalp of natural oils, making hair thinning during periods even worse.
          • Drinking enough water keeps your scalp hydrated, which is essential for maintaining healthy hair follicles. A dry scalp can lead to brittle hair and hinder hair growth.

          While your period may feel like a monthly challenge for your hair, the right care can help you bounce back stronger. Understanding the causes of hair loss during menstruation is the first step to managing it effectively. By maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and practising mindfulness, you can support your hair health and keep your locks looking their best!

          FAQs About Periods and Hair Health

          1. Can Missed Periods Cause Hair Loss?

          Yes. Hormonal imbalances due to conditions like PCOS can cause hair loss in women. Skipping periods can throw your hair’s growth cycle out of whack.

          2. Do Female Hormones Affect Hair Growth?

          Absolutely! Hormones like oestrogen and progesterone are the MVPs for hair growth. Their fluctuations during menstruation can lead to changes like body hair growth during periods.

          3. Do You Need More Iron on Your Period?

          Definitely. Heavy bleeding can lead to iron deficiency in women, which in turn affects hair health.


          Sources :
          NHS: Iron Deficiency Symptoms
          Healthline: How Hormones Impact Hair Growth
          PubMed: The Role of Iron in Hair Health


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