For many women, the onset of menopause brings about various changes, including a shift in hair health. For some, this begins as early as their thirties or forties with an increase in hair thinning, a phenomenon often referred to as "hair follicle menopause." This occurs well before clinical menopause, resulting in premature thinning and shedding.
Fortunately, with our unique MP2 Formula—a topical combination of melatonin and pyridoxine—early intervention can support and protect the hair follicles through this transition.
In this blog, we explore the mechanisms behind hair follicle menopause, review evidence-based insights, and highlight how our MP2 Formula may be instrumental in preserving hair health. For those experiencing menopausal hair loss, we also offer personalised DNA testing and consultations to ensure a comprehensive approach to managing hair follicle health.
Understanding Hair Follicle Menopause
Hair follicle menopause refers to the early weakening of hair follicles, often tied to hormonal shifts that occur before full clinical menopause. Unlike traditional menopausal symptoms, these changes can begin gradually, subtly impacting hair density and thickness.
Hormonal Factors
Hormones play a significant role in regulating hair growth, particularly oestrogen, which is known to support the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. As women age and oestrogen levels decline, the growth phase shortens, causing the follicles to shrink and hair to thin.
In addition, androgen levels, specifically testosterone and its derivative DHT (dihydrotestosterone), may become more dominant relative to oestrogen. This can mimic a pattern of hair thinning similar to androgenetic alopecia, commonly seen in men, though it presents more diffusely in women. Research indicates that hair follicles have androgen receptors, and when exposed to increased levels of androgens, the hair growth cycle can be disrupted, leading to miniaturisation of hair follicles and shedding.
Studies have shown that hormonal imbalances affecting hair growth can begin years before menopause, supporting the concept of hair follicle menopause (Trueb, 2010). By identifying early signs and managing hair health proactively, it is possible to maintain healthier follicles for longer.
Genetic Susceptibility
Genetics also play a role in the onset of hair follicle menopause. Specific DNA markers can reveal a predisposition to early follicle ageing and hormone sensitivity. DNA testing can be particularly useful in identifying these risk factors, allowing for targeted treatment and lifestyle adjustments to better support hair health through hormonal changes.
The MP2 Formula: Melatonin and Pyridoxine for Hair Health
Our MP2 Formula combines melatonin and pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) in a topical application designed to support hair follicle health, particularly during the transitional years leading to menopause. Each ingredient has unique properties that contribute to maintaining hair density and vitality.
Melatonin: A Powerful Follicle Protector
Melatonin is widely recognised for its role in regulating sleep cycles, but it also functions as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect hair follicle cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a significant factor in cellular ageing and follicular damage, particularly during hormonal changes.
Research has demonstrated melatonin's ability to prolong the anagen phase of hair growth, stimulating follicles and supporting natural hair density. A clinical study in International Journal of Trichology reported that topical melatonin applications resulted in reduced hair shedding and improved hair density among women experiencing early menopausal symptoms (Fischer et al., 2012). By protecting hair follicle cells and potentially counteracting androgen-driven hair loss, melatonin proves especially beneficial during the early signs of hair follicle menopause.
In addition, melatonin’s antioxidant properties help defend hair follicles against external stressors like pollution and UV exposure, which can accelerate ageing and follicle degradation (Slominski et al., 2018).
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6): Enhancing Follicular Strength
Pyridoxine, or Vitamin B6, is essential for protein metabolism and plays a crucial role in the synthesis of keratin, the main protein in hair. It also supports red blood cell formation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, promoting a healthy growth environment.
Additionally, pyridoxine is involved in the regulation of hormonal activity, which is essential for maintaining balanced oestrogen and testosterone levels. By supporting hormonal balance, pyridoxine helps combat the androgen-related effects on hair follicles, a factor of particular relevance during the pre-menopausal years.
The MP2 Formula combines melatonin and pyridoxine to create a powerful solution aimed at supporting hair follicle health during the onset of hair follicle menopause. This combination helps extend the anagen phase, improve hair density, and protect against oxidative stress—key elements in preventing and managing early thinning.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Hair follicle menopause can have a significant impact on self-esteem and quality of life, yet many women aren’t aware of the early interventions available to help. Our MP2 Formula is designed for easy, topical application and can be integrated into any daily routine, offering a preventative measure to support hair health.
Starting treatment early with MP2 Formula can help prevent further follicle miniaturisation, improving hair thickness and density before severe thinning occurs. However, since hair loss can result from various factors, a personalised approach will yield the best results.
Personalised Treatments: DNA Testing and Expert Consultation
Hair thinning is multifaceted, often resulting from a blend of genetic predisposition, hormonal shifts, and environmental factors. While MP2 Formula is an effective solution for many, a deeper understanding of individual hair health and susceptibility to thinning can further enhance treatment outcomes. That’s why we offer a personalised DNA test alongside expert consultations.
DNA Testing for Hair Health
Our DNA test identifies key genetic markers related to hair thinning, hormone sensitivity, and nutrient absorption. With this test, we can determine your individual risk for early follicle ageing and adapt your treatment accordingly. For example, markers indicating a sensitivity to DHT or a predisposition to early follicle decline can guide the approach to supplementation and topical treatments.
Moreover, the test provides insights into factors like oxidative stress response and nutrient metabolism, both of which play a role in maintaining healthy hair. By addressing these unique needs, we can create a truly personalised plan to support your hair follicles against premature ageing.
Expert Consultation with a Trichology Prescriber
Hair loss requires a nuanced, tailored approach. Consulting with a qualified trichology prescriber allows you to access evidence-based, targeted solutions. We offer insights into treatment options that go beyond over-the-counter products, utilising research-backed strategies that align with your specific needs.
By consulting with us, you gain a partner in managing your hair health through this critical stage. We work closely with our patients to develop and refine treatment plans, monitor progress, and make adjustments as needed to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Protecting Your Hair Health with MP2 Formula
The journey through hair follicle menopause can be daunting, but early intervention with the right products and expertise can make a substantial difference. With MP2 Formula, we offer a preventative solution designed to address the unique needs of hair follicles during the early stages of hormonal changes, helping you maintain thicker, healthier hair as you age.
For those already experiencing menopausal hair loss, a comprehensive approach is essential. We recommend starting with our DNA test and scheduling a consultation with me, an expert trichology prescriber, to develop a personalised plan. This multi-faceted strategy can help you regain confidence, protect hair density, and support long-term follicle health.
References
Trueb, R. M. (2010). Female pattern hair loss: A disorder of androgen-dependent hair follicles. International Journal of Dermatology, 49(2), 143-154.
Fischer, T. W., Trueb, R. M., & Hanggi, G. (2012). Topical melatonin for treatment of androgenetic alopecia. International Journal of Trichology, 4(4), 236–245.
Slominski, A. T., Hardeland, R., Zmijewski, M. A., et al. (2018). Melatonin: A cutaneous perspective on its production, metabolism, and functions. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 138(3), 490-499.
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