Reviewed by Dr. Kenton Bruice, MD
Have you noticed that you are losing more than the normal amount of hair? Do you notice more hair in your brush, comb or in your hands after washing? Can you see a noticeable difference in your hair line?
Did you know that hormones play a crucial role in regulating hair growth?
When there is an imbalance in hormone levels, it can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding or thinning of the hair. This is particularly true for hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones.
In this blog, we will discuss the link between hormones and hair loss, how hormonal imbalances can cause hair loss, and how BHRT can help you manage it.
Table of Contents
Types of Hair Loss
Before we delve into the link between hormones and hair loss, it’s important to understand the different types of hair loss. The most common types include:
- Androgenic alopecia: Also referred to as androgenetic alopecia, this is the most common form of hair loss, affecting both men and women. It is also known as male or female pattern baldness.
- Telogen effluvium: This type of hair loss is characterized by excessive shedding of hair due to excessive stress or a change to the body.
- Alopecia areata: This is an autoimmune disorder that causes patches of hair loss on the scalp and other parts of the body.
- Anagen effluvium: This type of hair loss is caused by factors such as chemotherapy or radiation treatments, which disrupt the growth phase of the hair cycle.
Hormones and Hair Growth
Hair growth occurs in cycles, including the anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase).
Hormones play a critical role in these cycles, influencing everything from the rate of hair growth to the health and strength of the hair follicle itself.
The Role of Testosterone in Hair Loss
Testosterone is a hormone that is primarily produced in the testes in men and the ovaries in women. It plays a vital role in the development of male physical characteristics, but it also contributes to hair growth.
In men, testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. If DHT is too high, it binds to receptors in hair follicles and can cause them to shrink, resulting in thinning hair and eventual hair loss.
In women, hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to elevated levels of testosterone, also resulting in the production of DHT and hair loss.
The Influence of Estrogen on Hair Growth
Estrogen is a hormone that is primarily produced in the ovaries in women. It plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining reproductive health, but it also contributes to hair growth and thickness. Estrogen helps to prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle, resulting in longer and thicker hair.
During menopause, estrogen levels decrease significantly, leading to a shorter anagen phase and thinner hair. This is why many women experience hair loss or thinning during this stage of life.
The Impact of Thyroid Hormones on Hair Health
Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism and play a crucial role in hair growth.
An overactive (hyper) or underactive (hypo) thyroid gland can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, leading to hair loss. In hypothyroidism, hair may become dry, brittle and thin, while hyperthyroidism can cause excessive shedding.
Other Hormonal Factors That Can Contribute to Hair Loss
Aside from testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones, there are other hormonal factors that can contribute to hair loss. These include:
- Cortisol: This stress hormone can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and lead to excessive shedding.
- Progesterone: Fluctuations in progesterone levels during pregnancy or menopause can also result in hair loss.
- Growth hormone: A deficiency in growth hormone can lead to hair loss, as it plays a vital role in stimulating hair follicles.
BHRT: A Solution to Hormone-Induced Hair Loss
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy has shown promise in addressing hormone-related hair loss. BHRT involves using hormones that are chemically identical to those the body produces naturally, helping to balance hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of imbalance, including hair loss.
Benefits of BHRT for Hair Loss
- Restore hormone balance: By balancing estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones, BHRT can promote healthy hair growth.
- Reduce in hair thinning: With hormones in balance, the hair’s growth cycle can normalize, reducing instances of hair thinning and loss.
- Supports overall health: Besides improving hair health, BHRT can also aid in regulating other bodily functions, offering a holistic health improvement.
For more information about BHRT, read Frequently Asked Questions About Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy.
BHRT Pellet Therapy
Dr. Bruice specializes in pellet therapy. This method of hormone replacement involves inserting small pellets the size of a grain of rice under the skin. The pellets steadily release hormones into the body, maintaining consistent levels and avoiding the fluctuations often associated with other forms of hormone replacement therapy.
Benefits of Pellet Therapy for Hair Loss
- Convenience: Pellets only need to be inserted every 3–6 months, making it a low-maintenance option for hormone replacement.
- Customized dosing: Pellet therapy allows for individualized dosing based on each patient’s unique hormone levels and needs.
- Effective delivery system: The pellets deliver hormones directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system to provide consistent and efficient results.
Dr. Kenton Bruice -Your Partner in Hormonal Health
If you are experiencing hair loss or other symptoms of hormonal imbalance, reach out to Dr. Kenton Bruice. With over 20 years of experience in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, he can create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
Don’t let hair loss or hormonal imbalances affect your confidence and quality of life. Contact Dr. Bruice today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards hormonal balance and healthier, fuller hair.
If you are searching for ‘hair loss treatment near me’ or ‘bioidentical hormone replacement therapy near me’, we can help. To book an appointment at our Denver location, call (303) 957-6686. For our Aspen location, call (970) 925-6655. Questions? Complete our online inquiry form