Hormonal imbalance and its effect on hair loss and health, the most common causes that lead to hormonal imbalance
There are many factors that contribute to hair loss, ranging from genetic conditions like hereditary baldness to autoimmune and skin diseases affecting the scalp. However, one of the most common causes of hair loss, especially among women, is hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leaving hair follicles weak, brittle, and prone to excessive shedding. In this article, we will explore the most significant medical conditions that disrupt hormonal balance in the body, how they impact hair health, and why they lead to hair loss.
How do hormones in the body affect hair follicles?
The life cycle of hair and the structure of hair follicles are strongly affected by various hormones in the body, especially androgens such as testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and other types, as androgens affect hair follicles depending on the location of hair in the body. For example, some studies have been conducted on the extent of the effect of androgens on the areas of the body where hair grows, and it was found that androgen is a stimulating factor for hair growth, but some areas are not affected by it at all, such as eyelash follicles. In conclusion, the study showed that any disturbance in this hormone for any reason causes a disturbance in hair growth and the appearance of hair loss problems. In fact, there are some other hormones that also affect hair growth, and any disturbance in their secretion negatively affects hair health. Among these hormones, we mention:
- Prolactin
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Thyroid hormones
- Melatonin
- Cortisol
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Hormones naturally fluctuate throughout life, but when these imbalances occur frequently, they can cause noticeable changes in your body—especially in your hair. An underactive thyroid, for example, can leave your hair feeling dry and brittle, while conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is linked to excessive inflammation and estrogen imbalance, can lead to thinning and excessive shedding.
Additionally, major life events such as childbirth, menopause, and perimenopause can contribute to hair loss due to a significant drop in estrogen levels. Below, we explore the most common hormonal imbalances that trigger hair loss and how they impact hair health.
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is the most common type of thyroid disorder, but hyperthyroidism can also be a cause of hair loss. The thyroid gland secretes your body's main hormone, which affects the function of dozens of other tissues in the body, including hair follicles. Healthy levels of T4, a type of thyroid hormone, increase, so a lack of thyroid hormone in the body causes hair follicles to spend less time in the growth phase, which disrupts the hair renewal cycle and thus hair loss as the thyroid gland continues to be inactive.
Hair loss resulting from hyperthyroidism is usually uniform throughout the entire head, with scattered or thin hair appearing throughout the scalp. If you suffer from fatigue, dry skin, or difficulty losing weight, you will need to visit an endocrinologist to conduct the necessary examinations and tests to diagnose your thyroid function
2. Hormonal changes after childbirth
Postpartum Hair Loss: What to Expect and How to Manage It
During pregnancy, hormonal changes alter the natural hair growth cycle, preventing the usual shedding and giving you thicker, fuller hair. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop rapidly, alongside shifts in mood, metabolism, and sleep patterns. This hormonal shift disrupts the body’s balance, triggering all the hair that didn’t shed during pregnancy to fall out at once—leading to clogged shower drains and hairbrushes full of strands.
But don’t worry! Postpartum hair loss is temporary and completely normal. It typically peaks between two to five months after delivery before gradually returning to its natural state. To support healthy hair regrowth, focus on consuming high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and sufficient calories to replenish essential nutrients and maintain strong, vibrant hair.
3. Menopause
Another type of hair loss is caused by changes in estrogen levels that occur during menopause and perimenopause. Menopause occurs after a full year without a period, but before that time, many women go through a transitional period called perimenopause, which can cause side effects such as weight gain, mood swings, and hair loss. As your body transitions into menopause, your ovaries gradually stop producing estrogen, one of the main hormones needed for healthy hair. At the same time, your glands take over a small amount of estrogen production, which is still necessary for basic bodily functions.
4. Polycystic ovary syndrome
Hormonal Imbalance and Hair Loss in PCOS
Hormonal imbalance is a key characteristic of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Increased inflammation and excessive insulin production can cause ovarian changes that disrupt ovulation and lead to hormonal fluctuations. One of the most noticeable effects is hair growth in unexpected areas, such as the face and chin, while hair thins or falls out in areas where it naturally grows.
If you're experiencing hair loss due to PCOS, you may notice thinning, especially around the crown of your head. This occurs because the ovaries produce higher levels of androgens, such as testosterone. Elevated androgen levels can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle, leading to weaker, finer strands and increased shedding.
Can hair grow after correcting hormonal disorders in the body?
Yes! Hair can regrow after correcting hormonal imbalances, but the extent and speed of regrowth depend on several factors, including the severity of the imbalance, how long the hair has been thinning, and individual health conditions.
When the underlying hormonal disorder—such as thyroid dysfunction, PCOS, postpartum hormonal shifts, or menopause—is treated and stabilized, hair follicles can gradually return to their normal growth cycle. This means that shedding decreases, and new hair can begin to grow. However, it may take several months for noticeable improvement since hair growth follows a natural cycle.
To support hair regrowth:
Follow a balanced diet rich in vitamins like biotin, iron, and vitamin D.
Manage stress, as it can contribute to hair loss.
Use gentle hair care products to avoid further damage.
Consult a doctor for appropriate treatments, including supplements or medications if necessary.
If hair follicles have been severely affected for a long time, regrowth may be slower or incomplete. In such cases, dermatological treatments like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy, minoxidil, or hair transplants may be considered.
Summary:
Various hormonal imbalances can contribute to hair loss or changes in hair texture and appearance. While not all cases of hair loss are caused by hormonal issues—since other factors also play a role—hormonal disruptions remain a common cause, especially among women. Therefore, assessing the underlying reasons for hair loss on an individual basis is essential. Some hormonal imbalances can be improved through dietary and lifestyle adjustments or by simply modifying hair care routines.
