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Every year, more than 1.3 million women around the world transition into menopause. Perimenopause, the transition period where ovaries gradually produce fewer reproductive hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, typically spans around four years before menopause. This stage of a woman’s life, as so many know first-hand, presents a range of different symptoms that can be uncomfortable, bothersome, and quite disruptive to daily life for those affected.
From hot flashes and night sweats to skin dryness, hair thinning, mood changes, brain fog, and heightened risk of cardiovascular disease, women experience these common symptoms differently on both an individual and geographic level. Women in Western countries, for example, commonly experience hot flashes, whereas Asian women are most bothered by joint pain. While symptoms do vary, women between the ages of 45 and 55 experience this transitional, challenging period together, making open conversations and information imperative.
With World Menopause Day in October, we are spotlighting one natural solution that has been scientifically proven to help alleviate numerous symptoms women often experience, in the hope that continued education will benefit many more in the future.
Meet Pycnogenol® for Menopause
Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract from the bark of the maritime pine that grows in southwest France, which, over 40 years of scientific research, has been found to offer extensive natural health benefits. The ingredient has been tested in numerous studies involving nearly 600 menopausal women, and according to one study analyzing menopausal symptoms – Pycnogenol showed improvements in all key areas with no impact on hormone levels. Symptoms studied include hot flashes, night sweats, and sleeping problems, menstrual problems, memory and concentration problems, anxiety, nervousness, and more. Understanding these symptoms shows up differently in women, Pycnogenol’s antioxidant and circulation-enhancing benefits make it a comprehensive yet simple solution for each woman’s specific needs.
Homing in on Pycnogenol for Hair Health
Hair changes during perimenopause, in particular, are quite common. An estimated 50% of women experience hair thinning and loss of density, as fluctuating and declining estrogen and progesterone levels affect hair follicles.
However, a recent study analyzing women between the ages of 45 and 60 reveals that Pycnogenol can serve as a natural and effective tool for women experiencing hair thinning during menopause.
Findings showed women taking Pycnogenol experienced a significant increase in hair density. After just two months, density increased by 30% from the baseline, and after six months, the group experienced a 23% increase.
The study also revealed an improvement in scalp microcirculation, which was associated with improved hair density. Those taking Pycnogenol experienced a 21% decrease in resting flux of the scalp skin after two months and a 44% decrease after six months. This added benefit is significant, as circulation remains a top priority for maintaining health as we age.
Lastly, the women taking Pycnogenol experienced reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the scalp, indicating less moisture loss through the skin, whereas the placebo group experienced worsening moisture loss. A healthier scalp barrier is key as it holds onto moisture better, making the skin less prone to issues like dryness, flakiness, and irritation that can impact follicle growth.
A Path Forward with Pycnogenol
For women navigating the often-challenging changes that come with menopause, finding new ways to relieve symptoms and gain back feelings of comfort, confidence, and control makes a world of difference in their daily lives. As many women know, hair isn’t just hair. It is an indicator of health, how we show up to the world, and a core part of who we identify ourselves to be. Whether it’s healthy hair or any of the other areas of health impacted by menopause symptoms, Pycnogenol serves as one simple yet significant step that can help you take charge of your menopausal journey.
If you’re intrigued by Pycnogenol, consider talking with your healthcare provider. Many studies have found it to be safe and well-tolerated, but everyone’s body is different. The ingredient is available in over 1,000 health products and dietary supplements in various doses, so look for reputable brands, such as Healthy Origins and many others, that provide the standardized extracts.
Before starting any new supplement, we recommend consulting your doctor to ensure it’s the right choice for you.
