Hormonal hair loss rarely appears in patches. Instead, the hair becomes thinner across the entire head, the part widens, and the ponytail feels thinner between your fingers. Many people first notice it in the shower or on their brush, and then in photos.
What causes it
Hormones affect the hair growth cycle. When hormone levels fluctuate, many hairs can enter the resting phase at the same time and fall out a few months later. The most common situations we encounter at the salon are the period after giving birth, menopause, thyroid problems, PCOS, and periods when someone starts or stops taking birth control pills. Severe stress and iron deficiency can also cause the same pattern.
We are hairdressers, not doctors. If you are losing a lot of hair, or if it is happening quickly, you should start by contacting your local health centre. There are tests that can provide answers, and when the underlying cause is treated, the hair often follows suit.
It often goes away
This is important to know: hormonal hair loss is temporary in many cases. After pregnancy, the hair usually grows back during the first year, often with short new strands along the hairline as an early sign. In the meantime, the goal is to get through the period without putting strain on the hair you have left.
What you should preferably avoid
Thin hair tolerates less pulling. Heavy methods that attach to small sections of your own hair can cause traction damage when the hair follicle is already in a sensitive state, making the problem worse than it was. The same applies to tightly styled hairstyles, a tight ponytail every day, and a lot of heat without protection.
That is why we sometimes say no to hair extensions when someone comes to us in the middle of ongoing hair loss. It is not a rejection; it is another path.
Solutions that work for thin hair
Mesh hair extensions. A mesh is attached to the head without glue, tape, or heat, and the hair is attached to the mesh instead of your own hair. Your own hair lies protected underneath and can grow undisturbed. We use lace closure or Luxury Hair Topper Deluxe in human hair with this method, depending on how large the area is. Mesh is suitable for thin hair in general, not just hair loss after illness.
Hair topper. A hairpiece that covers the top of the head and the part where the hair is thinnest, while your own hair remains visible around it. It is attached with small clips and can be removed whenever you want. For many people with hormonal hair loss, it is the simplest solution, since the hair is usually thinner precisely in that area.
Clip-in hair extensions. Add volume when you need it, and remove it when you do not. Nothing remains attached and pulling around the clock.
Wig. If the hair loss is extensive, a wig provides full coverage straight away. All our wigs are glueless, and constructions such as lace front and mono top create a natural part and feel comfortable against a sensitive scalp.
The haircut makes more difference than you might think
A hairstyle adapted to where the hair is actually thickest can completely change the overall impression. Shorter lengths look fuller than long, thin ends, and bangs can draw attention away from a wide part. It costs nothing to try.
Can I get a requisition?
The healthcare system makes that decision. If your doctor determines that the hair loss is medical, you may be able to get a requisition covering all or part of the cost of a wig or hair replacement, and in several regions also hair extensions. The amounts vary between regions. See what applies in your region.
Come in and talk to us
We examine your scalp, assess the thickness of your hair, and honestly tell you what we think - even when the answer is to wait. The consultation is free of charge and takes place in a private room, in Stockholm at Odenplan or in Uppsala on Skolgatan. If you live farther away, we can do it by video. Call 076 415 90 00 and we will book an appointment for you.