Hair and Skin
What happens to the hair and skin during menopause?
During menopause, where estrogen levels are decreased, hair can become thin, weak and prone to breaks and spit ends, and skin can become dry, thin and skin sensations such as crawling, itching or tingling may be experienced.
How does menopause affect hair and skin?
Estrogen is involved in hair and skin health. Estrogen is required by the body to maintain moisture in the skin that keeps it supple. Low estrogen levels can cause a loss of the skin’s moisture and suppleness.
How can these hair and skin symptoms be treated?
Natural therapies can help restore skin’s moisture and suppleness and strengthen hair. These natural therapies include the use of:
- essential fatty acids
- vitamin E
- zinc
- selenium
The best source of essential fatty acids are from flaxseed oil or linseed oil. Other good sources of essential fatty acids are:
- fish oil
- evening primrose oil
- sunflower oil
- soya
Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that can be used topically on the skin via creams or vitamin E oil. It can also be ingested in the form of vitamin E capsules in strengths of 100 IU, 250 IU, 500 IU or 1000 IU. Vitamin E is used to fade scars and improve moisture in the skin.
Zinc and selenium are minerals that are beneficial for strong nails and healthy hair. The best food source of selenium in food is Brazil nuts. Selenium can also be found in tuna, beef, walnuts and chicken. The best food source of Zinc is oysters. Zinc can also be found in poultry, red meat, beans, nuts, whole grains and dairy products.