Hair Over 40 - Tips for the Older Natural Part 2

Hi Ladies, a happy Friday to you all!

I can't wait for the weekend....can you? Let's get into the topic.

Two weeks ago we discussed hair over 40, and the few tips you can follow for better hair. If you missed it, you can read all about it here. As promised. Today im tackling how to overcome hair loss at this time of your life.

*Disclaimer: Before we proceed, please note that what I am discussing here does not substitute the seasoned advice of a physician. I am not trained as one. These are simply practical researched pointers to aid your hair journey. With that said, let's proceed.

Notably hair loss at this stage seems to be more of an issue than just the average shedding that takes place. This is due to a number of reasons, including early onset menopause, higher production of DHT and angrogens (male hormones) as you grow older and iron deficiency.

Get your thyroid and iron levels checked

More than ever at this stage, you need to be aware of the changes in your body. Not just that but the fact that these changes will influence your hair too. Low iron levels can lead to hair loss. So schedule a visit with your doctor and  ensure that your iron levels are on par. If you are experiencing hair loss and your iron is low, that could be the main culprit. It would also be a good idea to eat more iron rich foods (beetroot,, spinach, lentils or beef), or take a supplement.

Along with that you want to ensure your thyroid is working well. If you have a thyroid dysfunction it can lead to hair loss. Tackle it beforehand by getting your check up. If you need medication to get it back to optimum efficiency, go ahead and take it on the doctor's presciption. You should see your hair growing back within the next few months.

Counteract excessive androgens in your system.

Male hormones can increase  in women as they approach menopause, and their oestrogen levels drop. This leads to thinning and is often called androgen related thinning as it is caused by a hormonal imbalance which causes more androgens ( male hormones) in your system.  Speak to your doctor about practical solutions such as medication to reduce androgen related hair loss. 

If you are not for the idea of meds, you can take a more natural route to anti-androgens

Caffenate your  hair

Yes I said it. Your coffee is not just a pick-me-up in the morning. One study has shown that it can help with thinning as well. In addition, the  International Journal of Dermatology   produced an article entitled “ Effect of caffeine and testosterone on the proliferation of human hair follicles in vitro.”  The gist of the article is that that hair follicles exposed to caffeine showed signs of growth in people with androgenic alopecia (alopecia brought on by male hormones). You can make this practical by incorporating coffee rinses into your regimen.  

 

Well ladies i've just presented three ways to help the thinning that we experience as we grow older. Do you like this subject targeted at older women? Do you want  more along this line? Feedback in the comment section would be helpful. Don't hesitate to ask an older friend or relative!

Till next week.