Are you one of those women who suffered drastic hair changes after menopause? Those that once had silky, lustrous hair now have fine fluff that frizzes. This is because menopause causes your estrogen levels to decrease, and estrogen is a hair-friendly hormone that helps keep your hair sumptuous and fabulous. With less estrogen, the hair thins out, and each strand can eventually become more fragile, drying out and creating fluffy frizz.
Remember when you were an adolescent? You probably noticed the opposite in hair changes: thicker, coarser, fuller hair. Yes … it’s those hormones that play havoc with our serenity.
Not only do you experience more frizz, but you may find that your hair breaks more easily after menopause because each strand has thinned and is more fragile.
Fifty is the average age at which most women begin experiencing menopause, but changes to your hair can begin before that. For some, it comes after 50. While there is no absolute, please take note of your mother’s experience because it can be a good guide to when and what to expect.
How to Tame Hair Frizz After Menopause
The best way to prevent frizz is to seal the cuticle layer of the hair shaft against moisture penetration. Increased perspiration caused by hot flashes can be a problem, but it is not insurmountable.
Use Quality Shampoo & Conditioner
Using a high-performance shampoo and conditioner is key. Look for products that not only nurture your hair but also shut down the hair shaft to prevent moisture from entering and wreaking havoc on the texture. Here are two of our favorites; both help to build up your hair while taming the frizz.
Heat Protectants
Besides the obvious in-shower products, there are a few other items you should consider. If you like to blow-dry your hair and want to keep it smooth and frizz-free, then I’d suggest the Frizz Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum. It is designed to smooth and shine the frizziest and most unruly hair. Silk Protein and Seaweed Extract are added to seal split ends and repel humidity, and it’s suitable for all hair types.
If you have a natural wave or curl, consider adding Prose Curl Cream to your hair regimen. It can be used as a styler or for touch-ups. This cream defines your natural texture—from waves to curls and coils—while keeping strands hydrated and frizz-free.
Kerastase Sérum Thérapiste Hair Serum is another excellent serum option. It is a repairing hair serum for weak, over-processed, and damaged hair. It provides a heat protectant with 450°F thermo-protection. It also has a soothing texture for an itchy scalp.
Living Proof No Frizz Vanishing Oil is a silicone-free, fast-absorbing oil that vanishes into hair, blocking humidity and hydrating for a smooth, shiny finish.
Wrapping it Up
Hair frizz occurs when hair absorbs moisture from the environment, causing the hair’s cuticle to swell and lift. This disruption of the cuticle layer, often due to factors like humidity, heat styling, and lack of moisture, leads to the characteristic appearance of frizz. The type and texture of hair and its overall health play significant roles in determining how prone it is to frizz. Curly and wavy hair tends to be more susceptible because of its structure, which makes it harder for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft, leading to dryness.
Preventing frizz requires a multi-faceted approach, including consistent moisturizing with conditioners and serums, avoiding excessive heat, and using gentle drying techniques. Products containing ingredients like silicone can create a protective barrier that shields hair from humidity, while natural oils like argan or coconut oil can help maintain moisture. However, choosing the right routine should be individualized based on hair type and condition.
Ultimately, managing frizz is about maintaining a healthy hair care routine that balances moisture, protection, and minimal damage. This allows hair to stay smooth, shiny, and more resistant to environmental factors that cause frizz. One thing is certain: frizz has a mind of its own, so it takes discipline and excellent products known to work. I know I have provided you with that, so enjoy the results, ladies.
Read Next:
7 Best Products for Fine or Thinning Hair
Protecting Your Hair From Heat