PERIMENOPAUSE
How to get your hair, skin and nails through the transition into menopause
Perimenopause comes with its share of symptoms, usually for women between the ages of 45 and 55 years old. “It's a real roller coaster ride,” explains Nathalie Pelletier, director, research & development for scientific affairs for the Quebec brands Functionalab and Jouviance. “Some women find going through perimenopause more difficult than menopause itself.” Our hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, will fluctuate for anywhere from two to eight years. While we’re well aware of the effects of menopause on the reproductive system, the impact of these hormonal changes on our physical appearance is very real, too, although it’s not as frequently discussed. “With age, not only does hormone secretion decrease, but the quality of your homones decreases as well,” says Pelletier. And although each part of the body reacts differently to these upheavals, they have a definite effect on the quality of the skin, hair and nails.
hair
Thinning of the hair or hair loss is extremely common during perimenopause. Losing your hair can be alarming, especially when it falls out in handfuls and doesn't grow back as quickly as it used to. To top it off, your hair may also lose shine and strength— becoming more brittle and difficult to comb and style. These are the consequences of hormonal imbalances and a lack of nutrients and oxygenation at the roots—a perfect cocktail for a bad hair day!
Our product picks
1. A scalp treatment that combats hair loss thanks to strengthening Aminexil.
VICHY Dercos Fortifying Treatment 5, $74.95, vichy.ca. 2. A treatment enriched with hyaluronic acid to rehydrate and plump up thin, tired hair.
RENÉ FURTERER Tonucia Replumping Conditioning Mask, $54, matandmax.com.
3. A silicone- and paraben-free duo designed to accentuate shine and facilitate styling.
AUTHENTIC BEAUTY CONCEPT Glow Cleanser and Conditioner for Coloured Hair, $35 each, authenticbeautyconcept.ca.
4. A leave-in treatment to revive hair’s shine.
PHYTO PARIS Phytocolor Shine Activating Care, $30, phyto-canada.ca.
treatment
If you’re concerned about perimenopausal hair loss or thinning, use a silicone-free shampoo and conditioner, as silicone can clog the hair follicles, says hair stylist and colourist Marie-france Goyette, the owner of Montreal-based Hair Shop salon. You should aim to reactivate blood circulation, as well as stimulate and nourish weakened follicles, she says. And don't skimp on scalp treatments, which can help mitigate the loss of density. “During this period, it’s a good idea to invest a little less in colouring and more in care,” she adds, noting that bleaches, in particular, should be avoided if possible, since they will damage already delicate hair.
Care for your hair by regularly using moisturizing treatments that smooth the cuticles to enhance shine. Other great tips for limiting breakage: Use a boar bristle brush and reduce the use of hot tools to the bare minimum (plus, always apply a heat protectant first).