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“Menopause isn’t that bad.” …said no woman ever! Our skin droops, our waists expand, our sex lives disappear, and our hair loses volume and thickness. Not to mention dry and frizzy hair that’s a total nightmare to manage. While it may not be a top priority, many women lack self-confidence when their hair starts thinning, which can be distressing. So how do you fix it? Minoxidil, HRT, hormonal medications, diet? Surprisingly, changing your shampoo alone can make a huge difference to how your hair looks and feels during and after menopause. And to prove it, here are the best shampoos for menopausal hair that will help you reclaim your youthful and confidence-boosting hair again. In this article:
Show More Best Shampoos for Menopausal Hair (Updated 2022)We may earn a commission from the links below. ThickTails Hair Growth Shampoo and ConditionerExcellent anti hair loss and hair regrowth shampoo and conditioner set for women experiencing thinning hair due to menopause or postpartum recovery.
Product Summary Capacity: 250ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Biotin, caffeine, saw palmetto Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Fresh and grassy
Thicker, fuller, healthy hair, less breakage, more volume, and less grays. That’s what you get with the Thicktails shampoo. It reduces hair loss and supercharges hair growth. The shampoo and conditioner set contains 8 of the best ingredients for hair health:
Developed by leading trichologists to reduce the detrimental effects of DHT on the hair, Thicktails prides itself as the go-to product for women against DHT hair loss. Watermans Grow Me Hair Growth Shampoo and ConditionerGet thicker, stronger, longer, and healthier-looking hair with the Grow Me haircare kit.
Product Summary Capacity: 250ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Biotin, caffeine, rosemary extract Sulfate-Free: Contains Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: May strip color Scent: Rosemary
Watermans Grow Me shampoo is a rich and indulgent shampoo that helps to strengthen hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and stimulate hair growth. With its DHT-halting technology, a rich blend of peptides, vitamins to help revive tired follicles, caffeine, rosemary, and lupine protein, the Watermans shampoo invigorates weakened hair from the roots. It’s also a hydrating and revitalizing shampoo that works for all hair types. Shapiro MD Women's Regrowth Kit PlusThe women’s regrowth kit backed by science. With results showing significant improvements on women who had hair thinning problems.
Product Summary Capacity: 235ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Minoxidil, caffeine, green tea, saw palmetto Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Light and fresh
* When using the minoxidil treatment Founded in 2011 by two Dermatologists, Dr. Steven Shapiro and Dr. Michael Bornenstein, Shapiro MD created its patented triple action hair care formula by leveraging 5 years of intense research on the effects of DHT on hair follicles. With FDA-approved and clinically proven ingredients that can stimulate stem cells, this shampoo fights hormonal hair thinners with active ingredients such as saw palmetto, caffeine, and green tea. You also get a 2% minoxidil regrowth treatment in the kit that claims to regrow hair in 3 months. However, be cautious and do a patch test before using minoxidil as every individual may react differently to it. Minoxidil’s common side effects include irritation, irregular heart rhythms, and dry scalp. Overall, customers who used the Shapiro MD kit showed positive results. See the before and after photos here. Plantur 39 Phyto Caffeine ShampooThe best coffee shampoo for thinning hair. Also includes a scalp tonic that can be used in-between shampooing.
Product Summary Capacity: 250ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Caffeine complex, niacin, zinc, castor oil Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Pine (May feel strong)
The Plantur 39 shampoo utilizes the unique properties of nature’s Phyto actives to protect the scalp from the impact of declining estrogen levels. Additionally, it uses caffeine to prevent premature miniaturization of the hair follicles caused by testosterone-derived DHT. [15] [26] For women experiencing menopausal hair thinning and hair loss, the Plantur Phyto-Caffeine shampoo, conditioner, and scalp tonic will strengthen fragile and brittle hair from the roots, allowing them to flourish instead of falling off. Virtue Flourish Shampoo for Thinning HairA gentle lathering and purifying shampoo that enriches the scalp for optimal hair growth.
Product Summary Capacity: 240ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Alpha keratin, larch wood extract, probiotics Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Smells like a spa. Aromatic herbs, citrus, and flowers
The Virtue Flourish shampoo gently cleanses and stimulates the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth. Rice-based humectants and active plant extracts work together to clear scalp irritation and flaking, while alpha and gamma keratin proteins help fortify the hair shaft. I love the Virtue range for its cute and colorful bottles and the texture and feel of their products. They feel luxurious and of high quality. The Flourish shampoo, which comes in a purple bottle, is available in 2 sizes: 240ml and 60ml. If you want to give it a whirl, I’ll suggest getting the small bottle first, which is reasonably priced. Nioxin System 472% of people who used the Nioxin 4 system reported thicker-looking hair after 2 weeks.
Product Summary Capacity: 300ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Green tea, folic acid, biotin Sulfate-Free: No Paraben-Free: No Stops Hair Loss: Prevents existing thinning hairs from falling out Stimulates Hair Growth: No. Only improves existing hair thickness For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Peppermint
The Nioxin 4 consists of a thickening shampoo, a scalp revitalizing conditioner that work together to reduce hair breakage. Ideal for people who suffer from thinning hair mainly due to breakage, the Nioxin 4 system is more a prevention treatment than a cure for hair loss and regrowth. While it will help you strengthen your existing hair, it does not make your hair grow faster or reverse hair loss. It’s an ideal shampoo to start using before entering menopause to control and reduce hair thinning before it’s too late. Viviscal Densifying Shampoo and ConditionerAn excellent densifying shampoo and conditioner set ideal for everyday use for women who have normal or fine hair.
Product Summary Capacity: 250ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Biotin, keratin, zinc Sulfate-Free: No Paraben-Free: No Stops Hair Loss: No Stimulates Hair Growth: No For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: No Scent: Citrus
Viviscal is a budget-friendly shampoo that uses keratin and biotin to amplify hair thickness and volume. The formula also includes patchouli and coriander oils to balance the scalp. The only downside of this product is that it contains sulfates, which makes it a no-go for people with color-treated hair. Overall, expect this shampoo to make your hair look fuller and thicker, but don’t expect it to regrow lost hair. Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Clinical Densifying ShampooRich and luxurious daily cleansing shampoo for fragile and thinning hair.
Product Summary Capacity: 250ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Biotin, hydrolyzed keratin, caviar Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: No Stops Hair Loss: No Stimulates Hair Growth: No For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Rose and Lemon
This luxurious shampoo contains caviar extract, which is rich in omega fatty acids, and anti-aging properties. With added biotin and keratin, this shampoo actively improves hair texture, thickness, and overall condition. Keranique Shampoo and Conditioner Set for Hair GrowthA premium product formulated to nourish and rejuvenate the hair follicles.
Product Summary Capacity: 240ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Keratin amino complex, panax ginseng root extract Sulfate-Free: Yes Paraben-Free: Yes Stops Hair Loss: Yes Stimulates Hair Growth: Yes For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Fresh and minty
Keranique’s scalp stimulating shampoo deep cleanses and thickens without weighing your locks down. Packed with nourishing and moisturizing ingredients, Keranique also delivers better hair manageability and frizz control that can last all day long. Trusted by over 2 million women worldwide, it’s one of the best premium shampoos for female pattern baldness. But beware. Due to its high popularity, you may come across copycat products online. OGX Thick and Full Biotin ShampooA good drugstore budget shampoo for hair thickening.
Product Summary Capacity: 385ml For Menopause: Yes Active Ingredients: Biotin, collagen Sulfate-Free: No Paraben-Free: No Stops Hair Loss: No Stimulates Hair Growth: No For Gray Hair: Yes Color-Treated Hair: Yes Scent: Jasmine, coconut, and lemon
The OGX Thick & Full shampoo is a volume-creating powerhouse with an extra helping of vitamins and proteins to pump up fine strands. With biotin and collagen as its key ingredients, it adds noticeable strength, resilience, and thickness to the hair to improve the overall look. However, if you use it too often, you may notice buildup in the hair. Other negative points are sulfates and DMDM hydantoin, which are harmful ingredients to avoid. How Does Menopause Affect The Hair?Menopause influences hormones that regulate the hair growth cycle. During menopause, estrogen (female hormone) levels drop significantly, causing the hair growth cycle to slow down and hair follicles to shrink. As a result, menopausal women experience an increase in hair shedding and thinning, which can be distressing. According to Trichologist Dr. Sharon Wong, a gradual reversal in the ratio between female and male hormones (androgens) triggers hair loss. [1] “The decline in estrogens/progesterones means you lose the protective effect on your hair, whilst the effect of androgens on the follicle is amplified. – She said” Most women will also notice that their hair loses volume, length, density, and elasticity, making it challenging to style and manage. As we age, our skin becomes drier and more sensitive. Some women may find that their scalp becomes dry and itchy during menopause [2] due to a sudden decline in sebum production [3]. Such changes can lead to problems like inflammation, flaking, and dandruff. [4] To summarise, menopause affects hair quality from root to end, causing what most menopausal women would refer to as the “midlife hair crisis.” How to Care for Hair During Menopause?Regardless of your hair type and texture, here are a few tips that will help you get the best out of your hair during and after menopause. Reduce Your Stress LevelsMenopause can cause emotional stress due to the body’s reaction to change. And when we feel stressed out, our body reacts by elevating cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormones. According to Anabel Kingsley, a world-renowned Trichologist, this type of stress can disrupt the scalp’s natural balance, causing follicle sensitivity and eventually hair thinning [5]. That’s why most menopausal women experience stress-induced hair loss like alopecia areata. To reduce menopausal stress and prevent hair loss, Dr. Stephanie Goodwin, also known as the menopause guru, advises menopausal women to do a regular scalp massage to stimulate extra blood flow [6]. Also, it is known as an effective form of stress relief and a good relaxation exercise that invigorates the scalp. Adapt Your HaircutA new haircut can help you adapt to your new hair texture and make it look its best. For example, shorter styles are easier to care for and help disguise thinning hair. A layered cut can add body and movement, while a blunt cut will keep your hair looking sleek and polished. To be honest, many women find that they are no longer as interested in styling their hair in the same way as they were when they were younger. A shorter haircut, in my opinion, is simpler and less time-consuming to maintain. You could also try a different color or highlights, which can help disguise any thinning areas. Avoid Heat StylingDuring menopause, hair becomes drier, more brittle, and prone to breakage. Styling your hair with heat can exacerbate these problems and accelerate hair damage. So it’s best to avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible during menopause. If you need to style your hair, try using a styling product that will protect it from the heat, like a thermal protector spray. And be sure to use a low setting on your styling tools, and wait until your hair is completely dry before styling it. Deep Cleanse Your Hair and Scalp RegularlyDue to a combination of hormonal changes and the fact that older skin cells are less efficient at retaining moisture, a dry scalp can accumulate white flakes (dry or dead skin cells) that invite bacteria to feast on. Washing your hair more often can help eliminate the buildup, preventing dandruff and fungal infections on the scalp. Shampooing your hair also helps to strip away the build-up of styling products and environmental pollutants, which can make your hair look greasy or dull. Choose a shampoo tailored to your specific needs (such as dry or oily hair), and follow the directions on the bottle to ensure you are using it correctly. Shampooing every other day is enough to keep your hair healthy, clean, and manageable. Check out the best clarifying shampoos we recommend for hair and scalp detox. Sleep on Silk PillowcaseDuring menopause, it’s common to experience hot flashes and night sweats that make sleeping uncomfortable. According to Dr. Shahzadi Harper (Harper Clinic London), sleeping on silk can alleviate these problems. Silk is a natural thermoregulator, which means it will keep you comfortable regardless of whether the temperature is high or low. Plus, silk is ultra-smooth, making it more gentle for your hair to avoid tangling while you sleep. Unlike cotton fabrics that are known to absorb moisture from the skin and hair, silk absorbs very little moisture, aiding your hair’s moisture retention and smoothness throughout the night. So get a silk pillowcase. It will reduce hair breakage and make sure your locks don’t dehydrate when you zzz. Menopausal Hair Shampoo – Buying GuideAfter reviewing 37 shampoos that target menopausal hair problems, we’ve narrowed down the list of ingredients and qualities we found most of them had in common. While you may not have a single product with all these attributes, you can use it as a checklist to ensure you get good value for your money. Active Ingredients to Look for:BiotinBiotin stimulates keratin production [7], the most important building block of the hair, reinforcing its strength, elasticity, and lifeforce. Without enough keratin, hair becomes fragile and breaks easily. So it’s critical to support your hair with biotin-rich foods, supplements, or products. MinoxidilMinoxidil is an FDA-approved [8] topical treatment that stimulates hair growth and reduces hair thinning. Available over the counter without prescription, minoxidil can help menopausal and postmenopausal women treat androgenic alopecia, female pattern hair loss (FPHL), and prevent premature hair loss. However, it’s recommended to use the formula at a 2% concentration for women and 5% for men. [27] While Minoxidil can be highly effective, it has known side effects, like scalp irritation, unwanted facial hair growth, and irregular heartbeat. [9] Warning: Before using minoxidil, it’s critical to assess other factors like high blood pressure, pregnancy, allergies, etc. Always check with your doctor before use. Minoxidil – Precautions for use A better natural alternative to minoxidil is rosemary oil. Rosemary Extract“Rosemary oil is equivalent to 2.5% minoxidil, which is pretty impressive.” Dr. Michelle Henry When applied topically to the scalp, rosemary oil helps restore blood flow [10] and encourages cell turnover. Being completely natural, it’s well-tolerated by the skin and doesn’t cause any unwanted side effects. Rosemary is a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent [11] that can clean and protect your scalp against free radicals and infection. Also, a randomized trial that included two groups of people with androgenetic alopecia using minoxidil and rosemary oil showed similar results in hair count in 6 months. The group that used minoxidil reported scalp itching problems. The trial demonstrated that rosemary oil was as good as minoxidil when applied topically and did not have any adverse side effects. [12] Saw PalmettoSaw palmetto is a plant-derived anti-androgen [13] that has garnered much praise for its effectiveness at slowing down hair loss and promoting new growth. To prove it, 5 randomized clinical trials and 2 cohort studies [14] proved that patients who suffered from androgenetic alopecia showed a 60% improvement in overall hair quality, 27% improvement in total hair count, and 83.3% of patients reported increased hair density by taking saw palmetto in 100-320 mg doses via topical and oral supplements. Saw palmetto did not have any negative side effects either. CaffeineCaffeine is a natural hair growth stimulator. According to a study, caffeine in doses of 0.001 and 0.005 percent were found to counteract testosterone-induced hair loss, resulting in hair elongation at 120 hours after administration. [15] A topical application in a shampoo for 2 minutes resulted in higher and faster caffeine penetration into the hair follicles than any other route, resulting in quicker caffeine absorption during the first 20 minutes after application. [15] [16] That’s why brands like Alpecin, Plantur, Ultrax Labs, Terez & Honor, TruePure are big advocates of caffeine-based shampoos to help men and women stabilize hair loss and regain thicker hair. Try a shampoo or conditioner with caffeine in it, or add a few drops to your regular shampoo. Green Tea ExtractDHT (dihydrotestosterone) is one of the main contributing factors to male pattern balding and thinning hair in women during menopause. [17] Green tea contains a chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is a natural DHT blocker. EGCG administration has been proven in studies to lower DHT levels, stimulate hair roots, and extend the hair’s anagen phase (growth) to withstand the adverse effects of hormonal imbalances. [18] Related: Benefits of using green tea as a scalp tonic Pumpkin Seed OilPumpkin seed oil is a great natural source of zinc, magnesium, and fatty acids that are highly beneficial for skin and hair health. Zinc is essential for cell production and division. Magnesium helps to keep the scalp healthy and prevents inflammation, while fatty acids keep your hair shaft strong and promote healthy hair growth. Pumpkin seed oil is also rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols which help to protect the hair from free radical damage and keep it looking shiny and healthy. In a 2014 study, researchers examined hair changes in 76 male patients with alopecia who used pumpkin seed oil. For 24 weeks, they received either a placebo or a 400 mg dose of the PSA daily. Those who took Pumpkin seed oil showed a 40% in hair count. In comparison, patients who took the placebo experienced only a 10% increase in hair count. [19] Hydrolyzed Wheat ProteinHydrolyzed wheat is protein broken down into very small pieces, making it easier for the hair to absorb and replenish its lost protein (keratin). Like keratin treatments containing hydrolyzed protein, a shampoo with wheat protein can help recover damaged hair [20], reducing breakage and hair loss. “Wheat proteins have a high amount of these disulfide bonds, and using wheat protein can help to connect the broken bonds on the hair surface, leading to strengthened hair.” Lindsey Zubritsky, MD. FAAD. CollagenCollagen is a fibrous, structural protein that helps form the foundation of the hair shafts, giving them the ability to bend, flex, and twist without snapping. Collagen adds strength and resilience to the hair. However, as you age, your body produces less collagen, which directly impacts your hair’s strength and ability to withstand external influences that cause breakage and damage. That’s why it’s essential to keep supporting your hair with collagen supplements either via a topical application or an oral supplement. “Collagen is not a component of hair. But the main component of hair, about 95% of it, is the protein keratin. For the body to make keratin, amino acids (or building blocks of protein) are necessary. And that’s where collagen comes into play.” Rachel Maiman, M.D. Folic AcidFolic acid (Folate/Vitamin B9) helps produce new red blood cells, which can carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp. In a 2014 study carried out evaluating the relationship between folate deficiency and some autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, which is a common form of hair loss, there was conclusive evidence suggesting that patients with alopecia had lower levels of red blood cells folate. [21] Although there is no conclusive evidence that it can fight hormonal hair loss, folic acid is still a key nutrient that can amp up the body’s red blood cells production, a key contributor to healthy hair. Aloe VeraAloe vera is a plant that has long been used for medicinal purposes. It can be used as a moisturizer for dry skin, blood sugar stabilizer, mouthwash, and soothing sunburns. [22] But its most potent benefits lie in its anti-inflammatory properties, which can heal various skin and scalp conditions. [23] So how does this help with hair loss? Well, although there is no conclusive research to prove that it stops hair loss, there is enough evidence to support aloe vera gel’s effectiveness to heal chronic scalp conditions [24] that may contribute to hair loss. By helping the scalp fight bacteria, dandruff, and inflammation, it fertilizes the hair base for optimal growth. Niacin (Vitamin B3)Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that has proven to slow down the aging effects on hair with its highly effective antioxidants. Niacin reactivates blood vessels near the skin to open up, boosting blood supply to the hair follicles [25]. Its efficacy is well-documented, and many studies also support the use of niacin in various hair growth vitamins and supplements designed to tackle female pattern alopecia. Here’s a study that proves how niacin increased hair fullness in 60 females after 6 months of application. You can also find niacin as a key ingredient in women’s hair loss products such as Nutrafol, Oxford Biolabs, Plantur, Viviscal, and many more. Look for a Shampoo That Boosts Hair GrowthIngredients like saw palmetto, caffeine, and biotin can boost hair volume and thickness. Especially if you are in the early stage of menopause, a shampoo formulated with such hair growth boosters can minimize the adverse effects of hormonal imbalances. Look for Scalp Stimulating PropertiesA shampoo that can stimulate blood flow to the scalp will help strengthen the hair follicles for optimal growth. Stimulants like caffeine [15] and niacin [25] are highly effective at carrying essential nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, which can help revitalize every single hair strand to its maximum potential. Look for a Shampoo That Can Double Up as a Scalp TreatmentA shampoo that can double up as a scalp tonic treatment can help unclog impurities, stale sebum, and buildup that may be inhibiting hair growth. A good scalp cleanser shampoo can detox and rebalance the scalp, improving hair follicles’ ability to stimulate more growth. Look for Nourishing and Moisturizing IngredientsMoisturizing and nourishing ingredients improve hair elasticity, moisture retention and prevent frizziness, making your hair easy to style and manage. Here are some of the ingredients to check for in your shampoo:
Look for a Shampoo That Reduces Hair BreakageIngredients like biotin, keratin, collagen, and elastin can help strengthen the hair shafts, making them more resistant to splitting and breaking when detangling or styling. But still, make sure you never detangle your hair when it’s dry. Always brush or detangle when your hair is drenched in conditioner to avoid frizz and breakage. Don’t Forget Frizz ControlMost menopausal women experience frizzy hair due to estrogen deficiency, scalp dryness, and the natural decline in collagen. An anti-frizz shampoo can improve the hair’s appearance by keeping it smooth, manageable, and easy to style. Filter Out The Bad ChemicalsMany shampoos contain harsh chemicals like sulfates that can damage the hair. Over time, these chemicals can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to excessive dryness. Look for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed to cleanse and moisturize without over-stripping the hair. ConclusionHair thinning, hair loss and frizz are common problems among women who go through menopause due to hormonal changes. That’s why it’s essential to adjust your products to support your hair and scalp during and after this transitional change. Starting with a shampoo that contains essential natural ingredients and follicle boosters like biotin, caffeine, and antioxidants can help stimulate the scalp to increase blood flow and produce more natural oils, enhancing overall hair quality and manageability. All is not lost. You can still put your best self forward by embracing the change and adapting to your body’s new needs. Get started today with the best shampoo for menopausal hair 👇 Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to provide medical or professional advice. Salonworthyhair.com content is for informational purposes only. All advice should be followed at your own discretion. Sources, References, and CitationsThis article has been thoroughly reviewed and fact-checked by our editors. All the resources that were used to write this article are listed below for your reference.
What helps thinning hair during menopause?Minoxidil, commonly known by the brand name Rogaine, is often prescribed for both men and women with hair loss. This medication is a vasodilator that widens the blood vessels to increase blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles.
Will thinning hair grow back after menopause?Hair loss due to hormones is a reality for many people after menopause as well as during pregnancy. But will it grow back? The answer is yes, but there are also things that can help the body along.
How can I thicken my hair during menopause?In a quest to reverse thinning hair after menopause, some people try supplements (like omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and folic acid), hair loss shampoos, and stem cells (still in the experimental stages). They may also turn to laser caps, combs, or latisse (a prescription to grow thicker eyelashes).
What is good for hair during menopause?Biotin, flax oil, primrose oil, and zinc can stimulate hair growth. Herbal supplements such as green tea can also help to reduce hair loss.
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