Having healthy, radiant hair sometimes goes beyond just hair care. Hormones play a crucial role in hair growth and beauty. From the anagen phase to managing hormonal imbalances, we'll tell you everything you need to know about the complex relationship between hormones and hair !
Hormones and hair: what is their role in hair growth?
Because there are hormone receptors in the hair follicles (the base of our hair located under the skin at the level of our scalp), hair growth is a stage influenced by certain types of hormones! Sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, as well as thyroid hormones and growth hormones, play a major role in this process.
Sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone): Estrogen is the predominant hormone in women; it prolongs the active growth phase of hair and improves the beauty and health of the hair fiber. Testosterone, on the other hand, is the predominant hormone in men, which sometimes converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and can make hair follicles smaller and thinner. This weakens the hair fiber and can lead to a loss of density; this hormone is also associated with both male and female pattern baldness.
Growth and thyroid hormones: During the growth phase, thyroxine and growth hormones such as somatotropin (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) help cells multiply. In other words, these hormones stimulate cell reproduction during hair growth.
The hormone receptors in hair follicles regulate hair growth and the hair cycle based on hormonal signals. Therefore, hormonal fluctuations can affect hair health and hair growth.
That's all! This treatment is particularly recommended for hair that seeks to improve its health and appearance while targeting various concerns such as frizz, lack of shine or vitality.
The impact of hormones on the hair growth cycle
The anagen (growth) phase: Estrogens prolong the anagen phase because they allow cells to multiply, resulting in increased hair density! Testosterone, on the other hand, can shorten this phase by having a negative impact on cells.
The catagen (transition) phase: Estrogens prolong the anagen phase, but testosterone shortens the transition phase and pushes the hair towards the shedding (telogen) phase, which impacts the duration of the hair cycle.
The telogen (shedding) phase: By prolonging the growth phase, estrogens limit the number of hairs that go into the shedding phase, which is not the case with testosterone which pushes hairs faster towards this phase.
Hormonal imbalances disrupt hair health
A healthy hormonal balance is important for beautiful hair, as the link between hormones and hair directly impacts its growth, loss, and density. Therefore, when a hormonal imbalance occurs, it can disrupt the health of our hair.
Thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can prolong or shorten the resting phase, which directly impacts hair density. Medical treatment is available to restore this hormonal balance.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect hair growth. Hair becomes thicker for a while, but this can be followed by temporary postpartum hair loss. This type of change is normal, but a medical consultation can provide appropriate advice.
Learn more about postpartum hair loss in our dedicated article >
PCOS: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes hormonal imbalances that directly affect the hair growth phase, which can lead to increased hair loss. Oral contraceptives can be used to address this hormonal imbalance.
Hormones and hair: the importance of balance in the quest for healthy growth
For optimal hair growth, hormonal balance is essential. Adopting simple habits can help achieve this. For example, a balanced diet, stress management, and regular physical activity all contribute to maintaining this balance. It's also advisable to avoid harsh hair products and opt for gentler alternatives. If you have any concerns about your internal balance, nothing beats a medical consultation for personalized advice, hormone testing, and appropriate treatment if needed.
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