Will HRT help my hair in Perimenopause?

The Pros & Cons of HRT with Perimenopause hair; Oestrogen, Progesterone & Testosterone

I’m guessing you’re here because your hair has been acting differently. Maybe it’s been shedding, thinning or feeling a bit lifeless and you’re trying to figure out why.

You’re not imagining it. When hormones shift in perimenopause, your hair feels it first. We’ve seen it at puberty, during pregnancy, and at other points in life, reflecting the many challenges our bodies can face. Hormones are messengers, and your hair listens closely. If your oestrogen, progesterone, or testosterone drop (or swing about), your scalp and hair will absolutely shout from the roof tops about it.

One of the questions I get asked all the time:

 “Will HRT actually help my hair?”

Because lets face it we really haven't got a clue where to start!

Let’s break it down, hormone by hormone.

Oestrogen: The Moisture & Growth Queen (she really runs the show!)

Oestrogen is your hair’s hydration hero. It keeps the scalp moisturised, the strands supple, and the growth cycle ticking along. When oestrogen dips, we tend to see thinner hair, dry scalps, and that “why does my ponytail feel thinner?” moment. Restoring oestrogen levels can really support fuller, healthier hair.

Pros:•

• Keeps hair in the active growth stage longer

• Improves scalp blood flow and collagen (hello, healthier roots!)

• Boosts shine, strength, and density

Cons:•

• Can cause bloating or breast tenderness if unbalanced

• Some women get irritation from gels or patches

• Not suitable for everyone and certain health conditions can rule it out

Balanced oestrogen = thicker, happier, glossier hair.

Progesterone: The Calmer & Balancer

Progesterone is the hormone that helps keep things steady, emotionally and hormonally. When it’s working well, it soothes inflammation and prevents oestrogen from running the show (which can trigger shedding).

Pros:•

• Helps balance oestrogen (and reduces stress-driven hair loss)

• Calms inflammation in both scalp and body

• Supports better sleep, which your hair absolutely benefits from

Cons:•

• Some women feel low-energy or foggy on synthetic versions

• Oral or combined forms can affect a person's mood

When balanced, it’s the chill hormone your scalp secretly loves.

Testosterone; The Confidence & Strength Booster

This one is a bit misunderstood. Testosterone isn’t “bad” for women, we need it for energy, confidence, muscle tone, and yes, thicker hair. Low levels of testosterone result in flat, lifeless hair and slower regrowth. The trick is balance.

Pros:

• Supports energy and libido

• Thicker hair shafts

  
  

Cons:•

• Too much (or too much converted to DHT) can cause shedding, especially around temples or crown

• Needs monitoring. “More” is definitely not better

  
  

The right level gives your hair back its oomph.

 It’s All About Balance

HRT can absolutely help support hair health if hormones are part of the problem. But it’s not a magic wand. Your thyroid, iron, stress levels, nutrition, and even how you treat your scalp all play a part too. But it’s a great place to look at for help, especially if you feel at a loss when looking at all the supplements in the health food shop.

Every woman has her own unique cocktail of hormones and needs. That’s why working with a menopause specialist (not just guessing!) is key.

Will HRT help perimenopausal hair? HRT can be brilliant for your hair, but it’s not magic, it’s balance. It’s your formula, your version of healthy, strong, confident hair.