According to Clue, a renowned cycle tracking app, many users report that their hair appears more ‘oily, flat, and stringy’ starting a week before their period. So, we spoke to Jane Martins, Senior Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley to get her take on it.
In the week leading up to your client’s period, progesterone levels surge, triggering increased sebum production which leads to not only oilier skin, but an oilier scalp too.
And when a client’s period begins, progesterone and oestrogen levels dip while relative testosterone levels peak in the cycle. Testosterone can further stimulate sebum production, causing some women to experience greasy hair at this point.
But that’s not all: “There is a change in hormone levels and some clients report extra shedding at different stages of the cycle,” says Jane.
So, in order to optimise the health of the hair, sticking to a balanced diet is key, regardless of the time of the month. “Hair is protein, therefore ensuring good protein intake for breakfast and lunch is imperative,” advises Jane. “This should be combined alongside all other food groups too, such as complex carbohydrates which are the fuel for energy.
“Ferritin, which is stored iron, is very important, and if this is lower than the desired level for hair that can cause extra hair shedding. This is usually the case for people with heavy periods. Therefore, food sources high in iron, such as red meat and green leafy vegetables, are beneficial,” Jane adds.
Which brings us to question, should clients have a specific haircare routine when they’re on their period?
Despite any shedding they might experience, it's important to maintain a frequent shampoo cycle. “They still need to shampoo regularly with a mild shampoo,” Jane tells us, adding: “A cleansing shampoo which contains ingredients such as Piroctone Olamine and Lauryl Betaine is a good option (such as the Philip Kingsley Flaky/Itchy Shampoo) as this will help to relieve any discomfort on the scalp.”
