MENO-PAUSE FOR EFFECT

With many female clients experiencing hair loss during perimenopause and menopause, it is important to know how to address the issue in the salon

As women experience a number symptoms during both perimenopause and menopause, many notice changes in their hair during this time in their lives. “The menopause affects women in different ways, including how it can affect their hair,” says Sarah Gubbins, managing director of Base Colour & Co in Annacotty in Limerick, which offers a specialised hair loss service.

“Some women experience no hair problems at all, while others will experience hair loss. This is because oestrogen levels drop during menopause, and oestrogen is a hair-friendly hormone. Some women also find that their hair becomes very dry and brittle, and breaks easily. This is because the new hair strands that the follicles produce become finer, and finer hair is more fragile and likely to break.”

“As we age, our circulation naturally decreases, meaning our follicles are not getting enough oxygen, nutrients and growth factors,” says Michelle Silke, owner of Silke Hair Studio in Castlerea, Co Roscommon, who also runs Silke Hair Private Consultation Rooms, a personal service for any clients experiencing hair loss or scalp disorders. “This is exaggerated during perimenopause and menopause as a direct result of the fluctuation in hormones in a women’s body at this time. Our oestrogen and progesterone levels reduce and testosterone can become more dominant.”

This can lead to excessive dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production, which is a key hormone that causes female pattern hair loss in women whose hair follicles are sensitive to DHT. “DHT build-up can potentially lead to hair loss or thinning due to the hair follicles becoming partially or fully blocked,” explains Triona Holian, owner of HeadRush Hair & Beauty in Letterkenny, Co Donegal.

Hairdressers are often among the first to notice any changes in their client’s hair. “Due to our regular interactions with clients, we are able to observe first-hand any changes in their hair growth,” says Holian.

“While we are equipped to identify signs of hair loss, it is important to raise this issue with professionalism and sensitivity towards the client’s emotions. As stylists, we have the unique ability to provide valuable advice in such situations. Clients are often already aware of their hair loss, and feel more empowered to discuss it when we broach the subject with them.” “Usually a client will have noticed a change themselves, but it is common for a stylist to spot it too,” agrees Gubbins. “The client may be seeing more hair on their brush, their scalp may be more visible, and their hairline hair may be finer and shorter. In the salon, we often see hair loss accompanied by a dry, itchy scalp, or tightness of the scalp. As hair professionals, it is very important that we educate ourselves on how to discuss the issue with the client. During the consultation, it is a good idea to ask them general questions about how they feel about their hair, and if they have any specific concerns. An important first step when identifying hair loss is to understand the cause. Suggest that they speak with their doctor, and offer them help and support.”

“There are many factors that lead to thinning hair and hair loss, which is why it is crucial to determine the cause,” agrees Silke. “For example, telogen effluvium, which is stress-related hair loss, can be triggered by a sudden fluctuation in hormones, so it can show similar symptoms. It is very important for a client not to ignore thinning hair or hair that is falling out.”

Treatment options

If menopause if deemed to be the cause, there are a number of options available to clients. “We offer various treatments for clients experiencing hair loss, including Kemon Oxygen Scalp Therapy,” says Holian. “This increases blood flow to the hair bulb, providing essential nourishment from within, which helps to stimulate hair growth by promoting healthier hair follicles. When combined with the hair growth vial containing a vitamin blend, the treatment further supports the hair growth process by providing nutrients to the scalp and follicles. This comprehensive approach can help improve the overall health of the hair and encourage stronger, fuller growth over time. We encourage clients to continue treatment at home with the hair loss vial, and specialised shampoo and scalp conditioner.

“Our Indian head massage and scalp scrub offerings are also wonderful ways to increase blood flow to the scalp and clear any blockages that may impede hair growth. It’s important to provide clients with a holistic approach to addressing their hair loss.”

“I start with a in-depth consultation and scalp analysis using a trico-camera,” says Silke. “This allows me to see the hair and scalp under microscopic image to help me determine the best course of action. I use a specific line of products from AlterEgo Italy that uses natural ingredients to help block DHT and stimulate circulation, blood flow and new hair growth. I carry out review appointments with the client to monitor the results and to ensure that we are making progress.”

‘Clients are often already aware of their hair loss, and feel more empowered to discuss it when we broach the subject with them’

“In some cases, we would recommend our Nioxin Dermabrasion for the scalp to exfoliate and remove any build-up around follicles,” says Gubbins. “We also suggest using products such as one of Nioxin’s leave-in treatments, which are designed to restore a thicker appearance to thinning or fine hair.

“In addition, we give advice on how to maximise the appearance of fuller and thicker hair. For instance, clients can experiment with parting their hair in a different place, or doing away with a parting altogether if their usual parting is starting to show more scalp. They can also use a diffuser attachment on their hairdryer to add natural volume; blow-dry upside-down to make the most of gravity to add lift and volume; use volumising mousses or sprays to give their hair more body; and massage their scalp when washing their hair to stimulate blood flow and healthy hair growth.”

Psychological support

All our experts agree that offering psychological support to clients who are struggling with menopausal hair loss is vital. “Having to deal with this issue can be quite shocking for some women as they are not aware of it being a symptom of menopause,” says Gubbins. “Hair can be a big part of a woman’s identity and hair loss may affect their self-confidence. Letting a client know that she’s not alone can be quite comforting. I like to speak to my team about how to protect themselves in situations that can be anxiety-inducing for them. Hair loss can be a difficult issue to deal with when you are under time constraints in a busy salon environment. This is another reason education is so important. The stylist needs to be able to show empathy, rather than absorbing anxiety themselves.”

“Progressive hair miniaturisation and hair loss can be very stressful for a client, so it is important for the stylist to be able to reassure them that there are treatments available,” notes Silke. “As stylists, we can support our clients throughout this journey by offering to monitor their progress and by encouraging them to stay on their treatment to get the best results.”

“Hair is often viewed as a symbol of beauty, and losing it can be quite distressing,” says Holian. “Maintaining a professional and empathetic manner when working with clients facing hair loss is crucial. Providing solutions is key. This can include offering options such as top extensions/fillers, and in-salon and at-home treatments. By combining compassion with professionalism, we can instill trust in our clients and help them feel more positive about themselves.”