If you’ve noticed your hair becoming thinner, weaker or more fragile as you’ve entered your forties, you’re far from alone. While hot flushes and mood changes are often talked about as part of perimenopause, hair thinning is another common symptom that can take women by surprise.
Christchurch trichologist Dr Padmaja Redekar says hormonal changes can have a significant impact on the hair growth cycle.
“During perimenopause, dropping levels of oestrogen and progesterone can affect the hair-growth cycle,” she explains. “And if a woman in her forties has any thyroid issues, is diabetic, or has low iron, the existing problem can get worse.”
“My hormones have betrayed me!”
Many women describe feeling blindsided by the changes.
“Absolute hormonal mugging!” one reader told us. “Since hitting peri, my body has betrayed me, and my hair has paid the price.”
Another shared that her once-thick hair has become so fine she’s nervous to brush it.
While hormonal hair thinning can feel overwhelming, Dr Redekar says there are ways to support your hair through the transition.
She recommends taking a two-pronged approach, focusing on both scalp care and overall wellbeing.
“Externally, women should use products that stimulate the hair follicles and help keep them active,” she says. “As soon as they start noticing thinning, they need to start using dedicated products to help support the hair follicle.”
How to restore your locks after hair thinning
The OGX ProGrowth + Peptide Scalp Serum is formulated with peptides, rice protein and a specialised Longevity Complex to help support the scalp environment while promoting hair that looks thicker and fuller.
“The peptide serum can help provide follicular cells with the foundation they need to remain active,” says Dr Redekar.
Looking after your health from the inside is just as important.
“As soon as perimenopausal symptoms start, women need to think about supporting their nervous system,” she says. “That means deep breathing, quality sleep and a well-balanced diet. Sleep is especially important because that’s when the body repairs and rebuilds.”
Most importantly, don’t assume it’s too late to make a difference.
“Your follicles are alive and your body wants to heal and regenerate,” says Dr Redekar. “I’ve seen women who have gone through years of hair thinning and are still seeing improvements within months. Stay positive, use products with proven results, and give your body the support it needs.”
Meet the OGX ProGrowth range
OGX ProGrowth + Peptide Shampoo
$15.99 from Chemist Warehouse
This thickening shampoo combines peptides with 1.5% mandelic acid to gently exfoliate the scalp, remove build-up and reinforce the hair fibre from within for visibly thicker, fullerlooking hair.
OGX ProGrowth + Peptide Conditioner
$15.99 from Chemist Warehouse
Infused with peptides and Lipi Pro Shield Technology, this conditioner helps strengthen strands, reduce breakage and maintain healthylooking lengths.
OGX ProGrowth + Peptide Scalp Serum
$21.99 from Chemist Warehouse
A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum formulated with a 9% Long7vity Complex™, peptides and rice protein, this hydrates the scalp, reinforces the roots and supports natural hair growth for visibly thicker, fuller hair.
OGX ProGrowth + Peptide Serum Mist
$21.99 from Chemist Warehouse
This lightweight finishing mist helps protect hair from heat styling up to 230°C, while reducing breakage, instantly leaving strands looking fuller from root to tip.
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