Does HRT Help With Hair Loss

Does HRT Help With Hair Loss?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help with hair loss in some women, particularly when that hair loss is linked to hormonal changes during perimenopause or menopause. Oestrogen plays a significant role in supporting hair growth, and when levels begin to fall—as they do naturally during midlife—some women notice that their hair becomes thinner, drier or sheds more than usual. HRT can help restore hormonal balance and, in some cases, improve the condition and density of the hair.

That said, HRT is not a guaranteed cure for hair loss. Its effectiveness varies depending on the underlying cause, type of HRT used, and individual response to treatment. For women experiencing hair thinning due to low oestrogen or a drop in progesterone, HRT may offer relief. But if hair loss is caused by genetics, thyroid problems, iron deficiency, or high levels of androgens, HRT alone may not be enough to reverse the issue.

How Hormones Affect Hair Growth

Oestrogen helps keep hair in its growth phase for longer, which is why many women report thicker, shinier hair during pregnancy, when oestrogen levels are high. During menopause, oestrogen and progesterone levels fall while androgen levels (such as testosterone and DHT) may remain the same or become more dominant. This shift can lead to what’s known as female pattern hair loss, where hair thins across the scalp, especially around the crown or parting.

HRT, especially oestrogen-based treatment, may help slow or partially reverse this process by rebalancing hormone levels. It may not restore hair to its pre-menopausal state, but it can help reduce further thinning and improve hair texture.

Types of HRT and Their Impact

There are different types of HRT, and their effects on hair can vary. Combined HRT contains both oestrogen and progestogen, while oestrogen-only HRT is usually prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy. Both may help support hair growth if declining oestrogen is the root cause of the shedding.

Some women also experience improved hair condition when using body-identical hormones, which are chemically identical to those produced naturally in the body. These are thought to be better tolerated and may offer more consistent benefits. However, the results can still vary. In some cases, women may need additional treatments or changes to the HRT type or dose to see noticeable improvements in hair.

When HRT May Not Help

If hair loss is driven by factors unrelated to oestrogen decline, HRT may not make much difference. For example, androgenic alopecia(genetic hair thinning) can occur at any age and may not respond strongly to hormonal therapy. Likewise, thyroid imbalances, iron deficiency, chronic stress, or certain medications can also cause hair loss and require a different approach.

In rare cases, HRT itself may trigger shedding when first started, as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes. This tends to be temporary and usually resolves as hormone levels stabilise.

Supporting Hair Health Alongside HRT

If you’re using HRT to manage menopausal symptoms and are concerned about your hair, combining it with other supportive strategies can improve results. Ensuring your diet includes enough protein, iron, B vitamins and omega-3s helps give your hair the nutrients it needs. Avoiding excessive heat styling, using gentle products, and managing stress can also make a difference.

If HRT doesn’t improve hair loss, or if shedding becomes severe, it’s worth speaking to your GP or a dermatologist. Treatments like minoxidil, low-level laser therapy, or addressing specific nutrient deficiencies may be recommended alongside HRT.

Final Word

HRT can help with hair loss in women, particularly when oestrogen decline during menopause is the main trigger. It may not be a miracle solution, but for many women, it plays a key role in slowing hair thinning and supporting overall scalp health. If you’re noticing changes in your hair during perimenopause or menopause, HRT could be part of a broader solution—but it works best when combined with a full understanding of your health, lifestyle and underlying causes.