Have you ever noticed that your hair seems thicker, thinner, oilier or drier without changing your hair care routine? Chances are hormones play a role. Hormones are chemical messengers in our body that control all kinds of processes, including the growth and condition of your hair.
In this blog, we delve deeper into the influence of hormones on the health and appearance of your hair. Whether you are dealing with hair loss, dull hair or a full head of hair, it is more often than you think due to hormonal changes. 
What exactly are hormones?
Hormones are produced by glands in the hormonal (endocrine) system, such as the thyroid, pituitary gland, adrenal glands, and gonads (ovaries and testes). They control all kinds of processes in the body, including growth, metabolism, mood, and hair growth.
Estrogen and progesterone: the protectors of your hair
Female sex hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone have a positive influence on hair. They extend the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and make hair thicker and shinier.
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Pregnancy: Many women notice that their hair looks fuller and healthier during pregnancy. This is due to increased estrogen levels.
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Postpartum: After birth, estrogen levels suddenly drop, often leading to excessive hair loss (postpartum hair loss).
Testosterone and DHT: the culprits in hair loss
Testosterone, a male sex hormone also found in women, can be converted in the body into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT has a negative effect on hair follicles and is often associated with hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia).
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In men, this often leads to receding hairlines and thinning at the temples.
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In women, it usually causes diffuse hair thinning on the top of the head.
Thyroid hormones: the engine of your metabolism (and your hair growth)
The thyroid gland regulates your metabolism through the production of hormones T3 and T4. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can affect your hair.
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With an underactive thyroid, hair often becomes dry, brittle, and thinner.
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With an overactive thyroid, hair loss can occur, sometimes accompanied by increased oil production.
Cortisol: stress and hair loss
The stress hormone cortisol can indirectly lead to hair loss. Chronic stress disrupts the normal hair cycle and can cause hairs to prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen phase). This is called telogen effluvium and can lead to sudden, diffuse hair loss.
Menopause, contraception and hormonal fluctuations
During menopause, oestrogen and progesterone levels decrease, which often leads to thinning hair. Stopping or changing contraception can also trigger a hormonal reaction that affects hair growth. In our next blog, we will delve deeper into the impact of menopause on our hair. There is much more to say about that.
What can you do?
While you cannot always fully control your hormone balance, there are things you can do:
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Get your blood values tested if you have persistent hair problems.
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Reduce stress with relaxation techniques such as yoga or mindfulness.
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Nourish your body well: a lack of nutrients worsens hormonal problems.
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Consult a doctor or dermatologist if you think hormones play a role in your hair loss.
Conclusion
Hormones have a profound impact on the condition of your hair. Whether it's sex hormones, thyroid hormones, or stress hormones, an imbalance can lead to thinning, brittle, or falling hair. By being aware of the role hormones play, you can more specifically seek the right treatment or support.
Do you want to know if your hair problems are hormonal? Consider visiting a specialist; sometimes the solution is simpler than you think. 💗
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