How long does menopausal hair loss last and what helps against it?

Hair loss during menopause is common and usually has two sides. Some of it is temporary: you lose more hair for a while, for example due to hormone fluctuations, poor sleep or anemia, and this often recovers within a few months after the cause has disappeared. The other part is permanent: in many women, hereditary hair loss begins around menopause, with the hair on top of the head gradually thinning. This form does not stop automatically when the menopausal symptoms decrease^[2]. In a study of 178 postmenopausal women, 52% had this type of hair loss^[4]. Good news: you can do something about it. Minoxidil on the scalp is the best-researched option, and in case of sudden or patchy hair loss, the doctor is the first step.

Table of contents

• Why do you experience hair loss during menopause?
• How long does menopausal hair loss last?
• What types of hair loss occur around menopause?
• When do you start do you go to the doctor?
• What helps against hair loss during menopause?
• How quickly does minoxidil work in women during menopause?
• Frequently asked questions
• Sources

Why do you get hair loss during menopause?

Menopause is the period of a number of years around your last menstrual period. Your body then produces less estrogen. Menopause usually starts between the ages of 40 and 60, and the last menstrual period is on average around age 51^[1]. The home doctor explicitly mentions hair loss as one of the possible menopausal complaints^[1].

Estrogen helps keep the hair in the growth phase (anagen phase) for longer. After menopause, it has been shown that a smaller proportion of hairs are in that growth phase, especially at the front of the scalp^[3]. Testosterone also plays a role. Women also produce this hormone, and in hereditary hair loss the hair follicles become hypersensitive to it. They shrink, making the hair thinner and shorter^[2]. Most women with this type of hair loss have normal hormone levels in the blood; it's about how sensitive your hair follicles are, not about a deficiency that you can temporarily replenish^[3].

Other factors also play a role. Heredity increases the risk, and in the 2022 study, hair loss was more common in older women and with a high BMI^[4]. Stress, illness and deficiencies can cause additional hair loss at any time.

How long does hair loss last during menopause?

That depends on the type of hair loss. Most menopausal symptoms diminish approximately 5 years after the last menstrual period^[1]. This does not automatically apply to hair:

• Temporary increased hair loss (for example due to anemia, poor sleep or stress) usually recovers in a few months once the cause has been addressed.
• Hereditary hair loss often starts in women during or after menopause and continues slowly^[2]. Around the age of 70, about 3 in 10 women suffer from it^[2]. This will not go away on its own once the hot flashes are over.

Are you unsure which type you have? In the blog hereditary hair loss in women you can read the signals and stages.

Which types of hair loss occur around menopause?

Different forms can overlap between the ages of 45 and 60. This overview will help you recognize them.

When do you go to the doctor?

Go to the doctor if your hair falls out suddenly and a lot, if you develop bald spots, if your scalp itches, hurts or is red, or if the hair loss started after a new medication (for example, certain breast cancer medications)^[2]. Even if you are very tired or have heavy periods, it is wise to have your blood checked: anemia is a known consequence of menopause^[1] and can worsen hair loss. If thinning makes you feel insecure or depressed, then that in itself is also a good reason to visit^[2].

What helps against hair loss during menopause?

For hereditary hair loss, minoxidil on the scalp is the best-researched option. Two forms are mentioned for women: 2% lotion 2 times a day or 5% foam 1 time a day^[3]. According to Apotheek.nl, minoxidil reduces hair loss in about 1 in 2 women^[5]. The home doctor is more cautious and writes that it helps a little in about 1 in 6 people^[2]. To be honest: it mainly slows down further loss and provides some new growth for some women. There is no guarantee of a full head of hair.

1 times a day

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And the rest? Hormone therapy is sometimes mentioned, but there is insufficient evidence that it helps against hereditary hair loss in women^[3]. So hormones are not a hair treatment; Only discuss them with your doctor if you also have other menopausal complaints. According to Thuisarts, shampoos, creams, diets and vitamin pills probably do not help against hereditary balding^[2]. A supplement can be useful if you really have a deficiency, but don't expect miracles from it.

If you want a supplement that has been specially formulated for menopausal women, see it as a supplement and not as a replacement for minoxidil. In the blog about Nutrafol for women 45+ you can read what the research does and does not show.

Supplement for menopause

Nutrafol for women 45+ refill pack

Nutritional supplement for women in menopause, as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle.

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Small things that help your scalp: wash your hair with a mild shampoo, blow dry on a low setting, avoid tight ponytails and protect your scalp from the sun with a cap or hat^[2].

How quickly does minoxidil work in menopausal women?

Minoxidil asks patience. This is approximately what you can expect according to Apotheek.nl^[5]:

If you stop, the hair will return to its pre-treatment level after about 3 to 4 months^[5]. Take a photo in the same light every month, then you can see the difference better than in the mirror.

Pay attention to the warnings. Do not use minoxidil if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and consult your pharmacist if you are breastfeeding. If you have a heart or vascular condition or high or low blood pressure, only use it in consultation with your doctor^[5]. It is not intended for people under 18. Possible side effects include headache, itching or dry scalp, and sometimes hair growth in other areas, such as on the face^[5]. Always read the package leaflet.

Specially for women

Regaine Foam 5% For Women

Minoxidil 5% foam for women with thinning hair, once a day. Set of 2 cans for 4 months.

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Frequently asked questions

Does my hair grow back after menopause?

Hair that falls out temporarily due to, for example, anemia or stress usually grows back as soon as the cause is gone. Hereditary hair loss that begins during menopause usually progresses slowly without treatment. Minoxidil can inhibit this and bring back some hair in some women.

Do hormones help against hair loss during menopause?

There is insufficient evidence that hormone therapy helps against hereditary hair loss in women. If you are considering hormones due to hot flashes or other complaints, discuss this with your doctor.

Is minoxidil 2% or 5% better for menopausal women?

Both are used for women: 2% lotion 2 times a day or 5% foam 1 time a day. The foam is easier for many women because you only apply it once a day. Follow the package leaflet of the product you choose.

Can I use minoxidil in addition to other menopausal products?

Minoxidil is used on the scalp. If you use medications for your heart or blood pressure, or if you have any doubts about combinations, consult your doctor or pharmacist first.

Why is my hair also becoming drier and thinner per hair?

Because of less estrogen, fewer hairs are in the growth phase and hairs can become finer. A mild shampoo, less heat and a loose hairstyle help to limit breakage.

This article is general information and does not replace medical advice. Always read the package leaflet and, if in doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Prices are from November 2026.

Sources

1. Thuisarts.nl (NHG), I am in menopause, which menopausal symptoms can you get?
2. Thuisarts.nl (NHG), I am going bald (female)
3. Kamp E, Ashraf M, Musbahi E, DeGiovanni C. Menopause, skin and common dermatoses. Part 1: hair disorders. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2022 (English)
4. The Menopause Society, Prevalence of female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women, press release about a study in the journal Menopause, February 2022 (English)
5. Apotheek.nl (KNMP), Minoxidil on the skin