Home Remedies to Thicken Hair During or After Menopause

Hair Extensions vs. Natural Treatments for Hair Loss

Menopause can be cruel to a woman’s body, especially when it comes to hair loss. It is a real side effect, and many women are impacted by it. It can wreak havoc on our confidence levels and ability to connect with our sexuality. There are multiple options available to help reduce hair loss and mask it. During my phase of hair loss, I decided to go the hair extension route. I was researching and weighing the pros and cons before making the decision. I had a choice of tape-ins or sew-ins and ultimately went the least expensive route first to see if I liked them.

I decided to start with tape-ins because of the affordability. My hairdresser told me they would last about eight weeks, but I was able to get them to last twelve weeks. She used pliers to clamp the extensions of my hair for about a minute. They looked AMAZING! My hair looked much longer and thicker. Eight weeks after the application, I started to have a harder time washing my hair and wearing it in a ponytail or braids. At twelve weeks, I began removing them after one fell out on its own. To my dismay, much of my hair fell out as I removed the tap-ins. I almost panicked, until I realized the hair loss was an accumulation of the hair I would have lost daily, anyway.

After talking to my hairdresser, she mentioned that the sew-in hair extensions would be healthier for my hair and last the same amount of time. I debated with myself because the cost was so high, around $1700 with tip. I struggled at first with the thought of spending that kind of money. On the other hand, I felt like I deserved to do something for myself that made me feel good. So, I did. It was an eye-opening experience. At first, I really loved them. My hair was SO thick.

Yet, as winter approached in Florida, the temperatures didn’t lower like they usually do. I kept getting overly hot and thought I was experiencing episodes of heat exhaustion. The extra hair was like insulation on the top of my head causing me to overheat, especially during exercise. Another negative was they were so heavy on my head and neck. I could feel my neck straining at times. Seven weeks after the application, I finally had enough and asked for them to be removed. Don’t get me wrong, they were beautiful, but the sewn-in beads seemed to lower daily stopping me from wearing my hair in braids or ponytails.

I lost a lot of hair by removing the extensions. My hair felt very thin, though it has been thick my whole life. After my experience with hair extensions, I wanted to naturally thicken my hair by focusing on improving my nutrition and water intake and researching natural products.

If you’re experiencing hair loss, and looking for a natural remedy, here are some solutions that I have used to revive my hair:

1. Wash your hair twice a week.

I begin the week with my hair down. After a few days, I move to a ponytail or bun. If you see me in a hat, I am due to wash my hair. For additional growth, add natural oils to your hair to quicken the growth process.

2. Adding Orgain collagen to your diet.

Collagen is great for the hair, skin, and nails. Use a powder form to add to your smoothies.

3. Use Olaplex clarifying shampoo and conditioner.

4. Increase water intake.

Pro-tip: Add fruits and vegetables to your smoothies to increase vitamins and minerals.

5. Consistent haircuts.

My goal is to get my hair trimmed every 4 to 6 months to increase hair healthier hair growth. I struggle with this and realistically go every 6-12 months.

6. Coconut Oil

Rub coconut oil into the ends of your hair while it’s damp. This will help keep your hair moisturized. To get intense conditioning, put two or more braids in your hair and add coconut oil. Put a shower cap on and go to bed. Great overnight conditioning!

I hope my tips work for you!