Written by Ella, our Cosmetic Formulation Scientist. Lovingly translated from science-speak to real-life (italic call outs) by our other Co-Founder, Maisie
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “My hair just doesn’t feel like it used to”? It might be flatter, thinner, oilier, drier, just different somehow. And more often than not, there’s a hormonal reason behind it.
We tend to accept that hormones affect our skin (think back to teenage breakouts or pre-period flare-ups), but we rarely extend that thinking to our hair and scalp. The thing is, your scalp is an extension of your skin; it just happens to have hair growing out of it. Each hair follicle sits in a bulb, close to tiny blood vessels that deliver nutrients and hormones. So when hormone levels shift, your hair and scalp tend to respond.
Your scalp also has its own microbiome, a living community of microorganisms that keeps things balanced beneath the surface. When hormones fluctuate, this balance can shift too, which is why caring for the scalp barrier matters at every stage.
At Maze, we call these hormonal chapters your life stages. From your first big hormonal swings in your teens to the changes that come with pregnancy, menopause, and beyond, each stage brings its own effect on your hair cycle, scalp behaviour, and hair texture. The more you understand what’s happening internally, the easier it is to support your hair from the outside.
Hormonal fluctuations change your hair; therefore, your scalp and hair need different care depending on what stage of life you’re in. And, by the way, not all changes are negative. It’s about adapting thoughtfully - celebrating what’s changing and caring for what needs support.
Each stage comes with its own set of changes, so here’s what to expect and how to care for your hair along the way.
1. Young Adult (Late Teens to Mid-20s)
Hormonal Mood: Oestrogen finds its groove, but androgens are active too
This stage is often a hormonal rollercoaster thanks to puberty, fluctuating oestrogen, and a healthy dose of androgens. The result? Oilier scalps, potential breakouts (hello forehead spots), and changes in hair density or growth patterns.
What it means for your hair
- Hair may be glossier and fuller due to rising oestrogen
- But overactive oil glands can also lead to greasy roots or even dandruff
- For some, androgenic activity may kickstart issues like early thinning or hairline changes
Haircare Tips
· Go gentle but consistent - Use a sulphate free shampoo that cleans without stripping. Double cleansing on wash days helps manage oil without overdoing it.
· Hydration still matters, even if roots are oily - Apply conditioner through mid-lengths and ends to nourish without adding weight.
· Use a weekly chemical scalp exfoliator - Formulas with low levels of glycolic or lactic acid help loosen dead skin cells and excess oil, promoting a balanced, comfortable scalp.
· Brush to rebalance oil - A wide-tooth comb or soft paddle brush helps move oils down the hair, keeping roots fresh and ends healthy.
· Build good habits early - This is the time to set up a routine that supports long-term scalp balance. Consistency now pays off later.
Additional tip: seeing changes in your teen hair doesn’t mean it’s time to switch to harsh adult formulas. Just like teen skin, your scalp is still young and can be more sensitive. Stick to gentle formulas made for your stage.
2. Prenatal & Postpartum
Hormonal Mood: Sky-high oestrogen during pregnancy, then a steep drop postpartum
Pregnancy is like pressing pause on your hair’s natural shedding cycle - which is why many women experience thicker, glossier hair during this time. But after birth? Oestrogen levels drop, and that change can cause many hairs to rest and shed all at once, making it seem like you’re losing more than usual.
What it means for your hair
- Hair feels lush and full during pregnancy
- Postpartum shedding, especially around the hairline
- Scalp sensitivity and oiliness may also fluctuate
- Nutrient demands (especially iron, zinc, and biotin) can leave hair looking dull or feeling weaker if your body’s reserves are low – particularly if you’re breastfeeding
Haircare Tips
- Focus on strength and recovery - Look for ingredients like niacinamide, betaine, and saw palmetto that help reinforce the hair fibre, soothe the scalp, and support healthy regrowth during the shedding phase.
- Be gentle with styling - Avoid tight ponytails or buns that pull on the scalp and use soft ties or scrunchies to reduce tension. Detangle carefully with a wide-tooth comb when hair is damp and let it air dry whenever possible to minimise breakage.
- Encourage circulation - Take a few minutes to gently massage your scalp during shampooing or while applying a hair mask. This helps support blood flow, relieve tension, and keep follicles active through the growth cycle.
- Support growth from within - Prioritise protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins D and B complex in your diet to provide the nutrients hair needs to grow stronger. Hydration and balanced meals also help maintain a healthy scalp environment during hormonal shifts.
- Be patient with shedding - Focus on keeping your scalp healthy and calm; over time, growth will begin to rebalance and your hair will feel stronger again.
This life stage is an interesting one as there are two distinct phases to it. Don’t be lured into a false sense of security during pregnancy and in the very beginning of postpartum. No one escapes the hormonal changes! Postpartum hair is also not just about loss, there are many changes that occur and focusing on scalp health, alongside loss and regrowth, is crucial.
3. Perimenopause (Typically Late 30s to Late 40s)
Hormonal Mood: Oestrogen and progesterone start to decline, but unevenly
This stage is often misunderstood. Perimenopause is the hormonal wind-down before menopause officially hits, and it can last years. Oestrogen may fluctuate wildly, and androgens like testosterone can become more dominant.
What it means for your hair
- Gradual thinning or a widening parting may appear
- You might notice increased hair shedding or slower growth
- The scalp can become drier, itchier, or more reactive
Haircare Tips
- Nourish your scalp with calming, hydrating ingredients - aloe vera, betaine, and centella asiatica help soothe irritation, maintain moisture, and support the scalp barrier during hormonal shifts.
- Use a lightweight, volumising conditioner - This softens without weighing hair down. If hair still feels dry, follow with a hydrating mist on damp hair or between washes for added moisture.
- Support your hair cycle - Look for gentle follicle-supporting actives or postbiotics that help keep the scalp environment balanced and encourage active follicles through this stage.
- Massage your scalp to boost circulation - Daily gentle massage with fingertips or a silicone tool supports blood flow and helps treatments absorb better. It also doubles as a relaxing ritual.
- Take moments for yourself - Hormonal changes and stress often go hand in hand, so it’s important to find small ways to pause. Whether it’s a quiet coffee outside, a walk in the sun, or a warm bath at the end of the day, these moments of calm help regulate stress and, in turn, support a healthier scalp environment for healthy hair growth.
This life stage can span years, so there is no ‘quick fix’ for taking care of your hair here. Focus on long term scalp and hair health - taking time to gently encourage and stimulate growth, avoiding early shedding/ thinning.
4. Menopause (Average onset around 51, but varies widely)
Hormonal Mood: Oestrogen takes a back seat, and androgen levels become more dominant
This stage marks the end of menstruation and a significant hormonal shift. Lower oestrogen levels can impact collagen production, circulation, and sebum levels in the scalp.
What it means for your hair
- Overall hair density may decrease
- Texture can change - hair may feel more brittle or wiry
- The scalp can become dry or sensitive, especially if you’re experiencing hot flushes or sweating
Haircare Tips
· Use hydrating, barrier-supporting scalp products - Menopause can lead to dryness and irritation, so choose formulas with glycerin, ceramides, and postbiotics to strengthen the scalp barrier and support a balanced microbiome.
· Soften rough or brittle hair - Texture changes are common, and ingredients like panthenol, betaine, or plant oils help smooth the hair fibre and improve manageability.
· Reduce heat and friction - Hair is more fragile during this stage, so cut back on heat styling and switch to a silk or satin pillowcase to help minimise breakage.
· Defend against oxidative stress - With lower collagen and antioxidant defences, hair is more prone to damage. Look for vitamin E, green tea, or fermented actives to support strength and resilience.
You’re likely to see a big change in your hair during this phase, as the hormonal change is so finite. The best tip is to start taking care of your hair during perimenopause to avoid significant, abrupt change. During menopause itself, focus on strength and resilience to fortify your hair and scalp.
5. Ageing & Greying (Ongoing from Mid 40s and Up)
Hormonal Mood: Low oestrogen, slow cell turnover, and natural oxidative stress
As we continue to age, melanin production in the hair follicle slows down (hello greys), and the scalp skin becomes thinner and more delicate as collagen levels naturally decline. Hair may also feel drier and more fragile.
What it means for your hair
- Greying is natural - it’s not just about colour but also about texture, as hair fibres often become coarser and less smooth with age.
- Hair may become finer, drier, and more prone to snapping
- Scalp care becomes more important than ever
Haircare Tips
- Replenish moisture and soften texture - As grey hairs lose pigment, they can also feel coarse or dry. Use rich conditioners, creamy masks, or leave-ins to restore softness, reduce frizz, and improve manageability.
- Treat your scalp like skincare - With skin thinning over time, choose gentle scalp treatments that hydrate, support the barrier, and help maintain a balanced microbiome for a healthier foundation.
- Support strength and density - Finer hair and reduced volume are common, so look for peptides, biotin, or caffeine to help fortify hair and energise the scalp.
- Defend against daily stressors - Oxidative damage from UV and pollution can dull hair and weaken fibres, so include antioxidants like vitamin E or green tea to keep hair resilient.
Greying hair is not just about colour change; there are many texture-based changes your hair will face. It’s crucial to focus on scalp care here, as this will yield long term results.
The Hormone-Hair Connection, Simplified
Hormonal shifts are a natural part of life, and your hair is often one of the first places you’ll notice those changes. From oiliness and shedding to dryness and thinning, each life stage brings its own set of challenges and opportunities to adjust how you care for your scalp and hair.
By understanding what’s happening beneath the surface, you can make more targeted choices that support your hair and the scalp microbiome that nurtures it. A balanced microbiome and strong scalp barrier work together to maintain long-term hair health.
At Maze, our approach is grounded in science, backed by real ingredients, and designed to work with your hair as it evolves.
If you’re unsure where to start, focus on the stage you’re in now. That’s where the most meaningful change begins.
** Note**
Let us introduce our style.
Our blog is written by Ella, our Co-Founder and Cosmetic Formulation Scientist, who shares the science behind your hair.
Maisie, our other Co-Founder, adds the ‘hair for dummies’ translations (in italic call-outs) to keep things understandable and easy to follow.
