How Hormones Affect Your Hair (and What You Can Do About It)

Ever noticed your hair changing depending on what’s happening in your life? Hormones are often the reason. From pregnancy glow to post-partum shedding, from stress-related thinning to perimenopausal dryness, your hair reflects what your body is going through.

This blog looks at how different hormones influence hair and simple ways you can support your strands through those changes.

Oestrogen and Progesterone: The Pregnancy Effect

During pregnancy, high levels of oestrogen and progesterone keep hairs in their growth phase for longer. That’s why hair often looks thicker and fuller. After childbirth, when hormone levels drop, shedding suddenly increases. It can feel alarming, but it’s completely normal and usually temporary.

Menopause and Perimenopause: Drier, Thinner Strands

As oestrogen levels decline, hair can become thinner, drier, and more prone to breakage. The scalp may also feel more sensitive. Supporting hydration with ingredients like glycerin and panthenol, and strength with rice protein, helps offset these changes.

Thyroid Hormones: Texture Shifts

An underactive or overactive thyroid can influence hair texture, making it finer, more brittle, or more prone to shedding. If your hair changes suddenly, it’s worth checking in with your healthcare provider.

Cortisol: Stress and Hair Loss

Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which shortens the growth phase of hair. This can lead to increased shedding and slower regrowth. Stress management, good sleep, and restorative habits are not only good for your wellbeing, they also help protect your hair.

What You Can Do to Support Your Hair

• Keep the scalp healthy with gentle cleansing and balanced hydration
  
  
• Use strengthening ingredients such as rice protein and panthenol
  
  
• Stay gentle with brushing, washing, and heat styling
  
  
• Remember that nutrition, rest, and stress management are just as important as products
  
  

FAQs About Hormones and Hair

Is hair loss after pregnancy permanent?
No. Postpartum shedding is temporary and most women see regrowth within 6–12 months.

Can products really help with hormonal hair changes?
Yes. While products don’t change hormones, the right ones strengthen and protect the hair you have, keeping it healthier for longer.

When should I see a doctor?
If shedding is sudden, severe, or you suspect thyroid issues, it’s always worth seeking medical advice.

Hormones play a major role in how your hair behaves, but you’re not powerless. With supportive care, stress management, and products designed to strengthen and hydrate, your hair can stay resilient through every life stage.

With love,
The BodFood Team