The Menopausal Transition: Is the Hair Follicle “Going through Menopause”?

Abstract

This article explores the link between menopause and changes in the hair follicle (HF) lifecycle, focusing on hormonal and metabolic dynamics. During menopause, hormonal fluctuations and aging can impact the HF, leading to phenomena such as thinning, loss of volume, and changes in hair texture. These changes are primarily attributed to a decrease in estrogen levels. However, not all women experience significant hair changes during menopause, and the extent of transformations can vary considerably from person to person, influenced by genetic factors, stress, diet, and other elements. Furthermore, menopause mirrors the aging process, affecting metabolism and blood flow to the HFs, influencing the availability of vital nutrients. The article also discusses the key role of energy metabolism in the HF lifecycle and the effect of hormones, particularly estrogens, on metabolic efficiency. The concept of a possible “menopause” clinically independent of menopause is introduced, related to changes in HF metabolism, emphasizing the importance of individual factors such as estrogen receptor responses, genetics, and last but not least, the microbiota in determining these dynamics.