Midlife can present unexpected challenges, and for one individual, significant hair loss became a distressing concern. The author recounts noticing an alarming number of hairs in her brush, exceeding the typical daily shedding range and indicating a more serious issue.
The perceived thinning of her ponytail and changes in her hairline, particularly at the temples where the scalp became visible, prompted an investigation into potential causes. Hormone fluctuations, specifically related to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the recent addition of testosterone cream, were considered as possible triggers. Despite reassurance from a menopause clinic that HRT was unlikely to be the cause, a reduction in the testosterone cream dosage was made.
Navigating social media for solutions, the author encountered numerous products marketed as 'wonder cures' for menopausal hair loss. A viral seaweed shampoo and conditioner failed to deliver, leaving hair limp and lackluster. Rosemary oil, applied nightly, also yielded no discernible improvement and was disliked by her husband for its strong scent.
Further attempts to address the hair loss included switching to a wide-toothed comb to prevent breakage, using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction, and consuming bone broth for its collagen and amino acids. After two months without success, skepticism accompanied the discovery of a £75 serum by the Swedish brand Sweed, which claimed to revitalize hair for fuller and thicker appearance within four to six weeks. The serum's vegan ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, pumpkin seed oil, keratin, peptides, and biotin, aimed to nourish hair follicles and stimulate growth. Notably, the product is free from parabens, sulphates, and prostaglandin analogues.
Despite its small size (6ml for £75), the serum was easy to apply with its rollerball applicator. Used nightly for four weeks, the odorless serum left the scalp feeling soft without greasiness. Encouragingly, within a month, the author observed new hair growth along her temples and parting.
Seeking professional advice, the author consulted trichologist Anabel Kingsley. Kingsley confirmed evidence of regrowth across the scalp, not just at the temples. The expert suggested that a reduction in testosterone might have contributed, noting that both low and excessive testosterone levels can cause hair loss in post-menopausal women. While acknowledging the serum's lack of harm and potential contribution to regrowth, Kingsley also pointed to blood tests ruling out deficiencies in Vitamin D, iron, or ferritin, and confirmed hormone levels were within the normal range. The shedding was suspected to be triggered by changes in HRT, with the hair now recovering.
Kingsley emphasized the importance of treating new baby hairs with care. Her recommendations included weekly deep-conditioning scalp and hair masks, twice-daily gelatin supplements, and nightly scalp drops. She also advised against limiting hair washes, contrary to the author's assumption that more washing led to more hair loss. Regular washing, daily or every other day, was recommended to prevent the buildup of oil and dead skin around follicles, which can weaken hair and increase shedding. The author resolved to adopt a more frequent washing schedule and pay closer attention to her diet, ensuring adequate protein and complex carbohydrates for hair growth.