Is Body Hair Too Manly For Women?

Body hair is completely natural for both men and women. It’s a part of being human. Just like having eyebrows or eyelashes.

At some point during the course of history, in some cultures, people have decided that having body hair is somehow inappropriate, especially for women.

In Ancient Greece, for example, having pubic hair was considered ‘uncivilized’.

In ancient Greece, there was a lot of pressure to remove all hair from your body.

During the Roman Empire, not having body hair was considered a sign of class.

In the Middle Ages, Queen Elizabeth I decided to remove her eyebrows and pull back her hairline, thus setting a new beauty trend.

As men have always been generally hairier than women, because they produce more testosterone, having body hair and facial hair became associated with masculinity.

Pressures of hair removal on women

To avoid being called ‘uncivilized’, ‘inappropriate’, or ‘manly’, women started using beeswax, different kinds of tweezers, flint or copper razors, creams, and other hair removal methods.

Women’s clothes were much less revealing before the 20th century, so removing body hair wasn’t always required. In order to be socially acceptable, they only removed unwanted hair from the face and neck, which were the only body parts not covered by clothes.

There are many pressures in western society for women to remove body hair as it is seen as masculine.

After World War I, fashion trends started changing. Sleeve and skirt lengths shortened and the more body parts became exposed, the more areas became targeted for hair removal.

Women started removing leg hair, armpit hair, pubic hair, and sometimes even arm hair. Not only was it considered more beautiful and feminine, but also more hygienic.

In the 20th century, women also started to gain more rights and freedom. They gained more equality and social visibility.

In the 1960s and 70s, some women decided to reclaim control over their bodies by not shaving. Displaying body hair became a method of protest, a political and social statement, and a popular feminist issue.

While some women didn’t mind abiding by social rules, others got fed up of society dictating how to behave and what to do with their own bodies.

Body hair removal today

Nowadays, we all know that removing body hair is merely a trend, a cultural construct, a social practice, rather than something rooted in biology. We understand that removing body hair is a matter of personal preference and that there is nothing fundamentally wrong with not shaving.

We also know, that biologically speaking, it is healthier to have body hair, as hair maintain skin health, provide sun protection, help regulate body temperature, and protect different body parts from infections. But yet the stigma remains. Female hairiness is still far from mainstream.

Body hair is considered by some to be more masculine.

According to a survey, it is still described in negative terms, such as ‘unhygienic’ and ‘masculine’, while hairlessness is considered ‘clean’ and ‘feminine’.

Women, who don’t shave are often ridiculed and body-shamed by partners, relatives, friends, and even strangers. This indicates that body hair removal is not a matter of personal choice, but rather a social norm.

Beautiful women, who flaunt their body hair and don’t care

In recent years, celebrities and other prominent female figures have tried to break the stigma. They have displayed and normalized their body hair publicly – on red carpet events and on social media.

They have promoted the many benefits of not shaving to millions of followers and fans. They have shown the health benefits and the fact that one of body hair’s functions is to release pheromones and to attract a potential partner.

Famous women, who are considered beautiful and feminine are starting to challenge convention and beauty standards.

Throughout history, women have endured humiliation, pain, and financial hardship just to conform to the widespread and firmly rooted social norm and strong, modern women are sick of it. Even though they still receive some degree of disapproval or even hate over flaunting their body hair, more and more women are deciding to ditch the razors and to save money, time, and pain.

The 21-year-old American actress and singer Bella Thorne often points out how sad it is that women are all too often ashamed of their body hair and that having body hair is natural and beautiful.

She is a strong advocate for body hair – she even wrote an essay in defense of her hairy body parts. She stated that she is comfortable with her body hair and that all women should be.

Miley Cyrus flaunts her unshaven armpits at public events, concerts, and on social media. She has even dyed her armpit hair on several occasions and she has proven that having body hair can be fun, cool, and sexy.

Madonna is considered a pioneer of body acceptance and as such, she loves to show off her body hair.

Rihanna posted a photo of herself and her unshaven legs on Instagram and Dakota Johnson has displayed her hairy pits on the premiere for her 2018 film ‘Suspiria,’ showing us that class and body hair aren’t mutually exclusive.

The former Bachelor contestant, Bekah Martinez, has posted a photo of herself showing her unshaven legs and armpits on Instagram. She admitted that she had been insecure about her body hair since she was a young girl, but that she has decided to overcome her insecurities. She stressed the importance of believing that we are beautiful and feminine regardless of where we have hair.

It is neither manly nor feminine to have body hair. It is simply natural and normal for all human beings.

So why would we judge and criticize women for having body hair?

Do we judge them for having eyelashes?

The practice of removing body hair is merely a trend and cultural construct. As women are an equal part of the society that sets trends and decides on what is considered appropriate, acceptable, and beautiful, we can simply shift the old trend and break the taboo. After all, whether a woman shaves or not isn’t anyone’s business. It is our personal choice and the only opinion that really matters is our own.

So, girl, if you want to shave your legs or armpits or any other part of your body, then do it. If you feel better when you don’t shave, then don’t!

You are beautiful either way!

How To Tell Someone They Need To Get Rid Of Body Hair

Body hair usually starts to increase at the onset of puberty. This is when the body undergoes major physical changes that involve the growing of hair in certain parts of the body.

A mature adult has typically armpit hair, pubic hair, leg, and arm hair, among others. Conventionally, most people nowadays remove their body hair.

But some people still have body hair, and in some cases, they may not even be aware that removing it is a possibility.

So, how do you tell someone they need to get rid of body hair without embarrassing both you and them?

There is no health reason for someone to remove body hair. It is just a modern-day fashion.

Don’t tell someone

In the majority of cases, it is none of your business if someone else wants to grow their body hair. They have made a decision not to remove it and that is their choice. And, you should respect that choice.

Unless it is affecting them hygienically or medically, then there should be no reason at all that you even attempt to tell them.

Even if it is a medical or hygiene issue, you should just present that as a suggestion rather than telling them to do it. And realistically there are VERY few occasions when hair removal would improve health or hygiene.

Telling Someone Without Embarrassment

Telling someone to shave or remove their body hair isn’t easy. It’s a very private issue and you will need to know this individual on a very personal level.

You need to use logic to convince a person that they need to shave. So, you need to furnish them with information regarding the benefits of removing body hair.

In the vast majority of cases, the only advantage of removing body is that in today’s society, body hair is seen by some as less aesthetically pleasing.

There is really no benefit to removing body hair apart from aesthetic reasons.

Tell Them They’ll Look Better

It’s clear that most people remove body hair because they want to look better. The removal of body hair also helps to make the cleaning process easier.

As a result, dirt and dead cells will easily get eliminated from the skin.

It also means that their skin will easily get nourished by body lotions.

So, you can start by telling them how much better their skin will look.

It Makes Tanning Easier

A shaved body makes tanning much easier. If you want to look cute and well-bronzed, shaving body hair is usually advisable. Advise the person on how lack of body hair means a good tan will be easier. It should be noted that a body that’s covered with hair is significantly more difficult to tan compared to exposed skin.

An advantage of removing body hair is that it exposes more skin to the sun and therefore makes it easier to tan.

Eliminates body odor

It should be noted that hair in certain parts of the body contains secretion glands. Additionally, hair on private parts and underarms help to create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

Besides that, the vagina also produces secretions.

The combined effect of all these can lead to a nauseating body odor.

If you tend to perspire a lot, then sweat and hair can result in an unpleasant body smell. So overall, removing hair helps to minimize the chances of bacterial growth and reduces body odor.

However, realistically, if you practice normal hygiene then it shouldn’t make a difference.

The importance of hygiene in your pubic area can not be overstated.

It produces a Smooth and Nice Feeling

Removing body hair, especially by waxing, provides a smooth feeling. This can be pleasant for a partner.

However, a person shouldn’t do it for another individual. You need to tell them that the personal satisfaction they will experience will be great.

It makes it Easier to Wear Certain Outfits

Wearing swimsuits, short dresses, or sleeveless tops becomes a hard task if you have body hair. Naturally, women are conscious of their bodies. But having body hair on legs and armpits can easily draw unwanted attention.

By getting rid of body hair, females can move around feeling confident.

Additionally, this can help to improve sensual experiences.

Improving Facial Profile

Is your friend having a bushy brow line that is making them look clumsy?

You can advise them to get that fixed at a beauty salon.

Tell them how a well-shaped brow zone can help to improve their whole face.

Note: Eyebrow hair removal is a global trend. This is something that has been happening in the beauty industry for decades.

Females from all walks of life normally trim their eyebrows to give them a personalized and neater look.

In some cultures, keeping your eyebrows neatly trimmed is very important both for men and for women.

It Helps to Enhance Feminine Beauty

Females, just like males, can grow body hair in areas such as the chest, breast, neck, legs, hands, and face. While body hair typically grows in these regions in small amounts in women, sometimes it may grow in excess.

If someone has excess body hair in these parts, you can convince them that the removal process can enhance their feminine beauty.

For Modesty Purposes

Research indicates that many people think body hair in women should only be limited to the pubic area. So, any slight display can highlight something different, including sensuality.

Body Hair Removal as a Form of Therapy

Some females don’t shave because of emotional turmoil. Stress and certain medical disorders can make a person neglect themselves. You can recommend the removal of body hair as a form of therapy.

Clean and smooth-textured skin helps to boost confidence. Generally, it can help to enhance the level of personal comfort.

Clean Hands and Legs are Attractive

Men love women with clean and well-shaved body hair. Normally, they consider them more attractive. So, you can tell a person that removing body hair can also get them special attention from men.

Improving the Skin’s Complexion

A lot of people don’t know that shaving can actually help to improve the skin’s complexion. Once you get rid of body hair, there are high chances that your skin will end up looking better.

So, you can convince someone that their skin’s overall health will actually improve and they will end up enjoying a bright and glowing natural complexion.

Reasons Why Some People Don’t Get Rid Of Body Hair

Removing body hair is considered conventionally sophisticated. That’s why modern women want to remove their body hair.

But, before you approach someone, understand that there are many reasons why they may not prioritize body hair removal.

It’s an Activity that takes Effort

To most females, shaving is a chore.

You need to create time and personal space in order to do this. Additionally, there is a strong reason to say that there is no point in doing it because the hair grows back within a couple of weeks.

It’s Painful

Some people fear the discomfort that comes with the removal of body hair.

Shaving, for instance, can result in cuts.

Other techniques can result in skin redness, inflammation, and irritation.

It should be noted that some of these techniques may require the use of a numbing cream or painkiller, e.g. threading. This is because they are extremely painful.

The Process is Time-Consuming

Research studies show that on average, females normally use 72 days to shave in their lifetime. Most females avoid the removal of body hair because the process is time-consuming.

The fast pace of modern life which is characterized by tight work schedules makes it harder for people to create time for themselves.

This means that some people may opt not to shave because there is so much that can be done within that bracket of time.

It’s Expensive

If you are shaving, you need to buy a pack of disposable razors.

This is because you will frequently be shaving.

Waxing and shaving creams are not cheap, either. You might need to use them alongside other essential oils.

Additionally, you need to have a moisturizer for your skin after you have removed the body hair. This is because body hair normally traps moisture which hydrates the skin.

So, once you have removed it, you need to get a good moisturizer to promote hydration. Lastly, some techniques such as laser treatment require expensive equipment and well-trained personnel.

Body Hair is Natural

It should be noted that body hair is natural. Human beings are mammals; hence they need body hair.

For instance, it’s crucial in regulating the body’s temperature. When the body temperature is hot, the hair usually stands to facilitate faster heat dissipation.

The converse of this process is also true.

When temperatures are very low, the hair lies down in order to trap air. This air is a good insulator hence it helps to prevent heat from leaving the body.

Reducing the chances of skin infections

Having body hair makes you less vulnerable to skin infections. For this reason, people with skin sensitivity issues or allergies often avoid removing their body hair.

The irritation, cuts, and redness that may arise from removal may flare up certain skin infections.

Protective Shield

Genital regions need to have pubic hair because it acts as a protective shield. Pubic hair is crucial in preventing access to bacteria and other forms of dirt.

Increased Production of Pheromones

A nice fragrance can be a huge turn-on. But did you know that some people keep their body hair to increase the production of pheromones?

It should be noted that the natural smell of some people can help them attract potential mates.

For instance, pubic hair normally enhances the production of pheromones thanks to their location.

Lower Chances of Skin Irritation

You notice that areas with high amounts of body hair normally have soft skin.

This is because the skin in those parts is sensitive.

So having body hair helps to reduce the chances of friction and irritation.

Additionally, these regions normally have coarser hair. This makes their removal even more difficult because you risk experiencing cuts and ingrown hairs.

Reducing Sweat

Both armpit and pubic hair can help to reduce sweat significantly.

We all want to smell nice throughout the day. But moving from one place to another as well as the external temperature, can lead to high production of sweat.

Body hair sometimes provides an effective and natural way of staying dry.

Sexual Sensation

There are females who find one of the best sexual feelings is getting your body hair stroked. Pubic hair, for instance, contains nerve endings. This means that slighting stroking it can heighten sexual tension and lead to better orgasms.

Breaking Societal Norms

Some females are not concerned with societal norms. Removal of body hair is a trend that these modern women adopt.

There is an expected idea that a woman needs to have a smooth, hair-free body. This is the only agreed form of beauty that everyone should follow.

Well, there are some people who are ready to change this conversation.

They simply want to exist as they are, without following or using societal norms. So, they don’t shave because they don’t want to.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways how to tell someone they need to get rid of body hair. However, it is usually not an easy process. This is because a person’s body belongs to them.

So whatever they choose to grow it, it shouldn’t be your concern. Sometimes, it may be seen as a rude way of intruding into a person’s personal space.

So, before you tell a person to shave their body hair, you need to consider your relationship.

Are you lovers, tight friends, or close relatives?

If so, do you frequently share personal or intimate information?

And if so, how can you tell them they need to get rid of their body hair?

The most important thing to do is to first ask them why they don’t remove their body hair.

It could be for medical reasons, negligence as a result of emotional turmoil, or lack of knowledge.

From there, you can proceed to tell them the benefits of getting rid of body hair.

Thereafter, you can recommend some of the most effective techniques to use. Make sure that you are polite and apologize beforehand for any offense.

Menopause and Body Hair

Menopause is a time in a woman’s life where inevitable changes are happening to her body. One of her main superpowers of giving birth to a baby is about to be taken away. And it affects her. It affects her physiologically, psychologically, emotionally, and physically. The changes that take place inside her body also manifest themselves outwardly affecting her appearance, including her skin and hair.

When women reach a certain age, they enter their menopause.

It is important for a woman to understand what menopause is and what changes it may bring, so she can face it with confidence: To see it as a new phase in her life that brings new possibilities, new challenges, new opportunities, as well as new blessings. Menopause need not be feared or dreaded, albeit a really difficult phase, but welcomed, as you arm yourself with the knowledge of what it is and where it will take you.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the season in a woman’s life after she has had her last and final menstruation. There is some subjectivity to it since you can only tell if a monthly period was your last one if you no longer have another after that. However, menopause may be viewed in retrospect as the last monthly period you had in the last 12 months. The interval (12 months) between your last menstruation and the determination of menopause is part of a longer phase usually referred to as perimenopause.

There is the menopause and the perimenopause stages

Perimenopause or transition menopause is an extended phase that begins when a woman is somewhere in her 40s. It extends up until the last two years (including the 12 month interval) before she reaches menopause, usually in her 50s. It’s a long season when your body starts to slow down, particularly in its reproductive capacity. However, in the last year or two of perimenopause, you may begin to experience the outward changes associated with menopause with more consistency. The most significant being your long period of amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).

What happens inside your body during menopause.

A woman’s body slows down somewhere in her 40s. During this period her ovaries begin to produce estrogen in an irregular manner, particularly in terms of its frequency and intensity. This means either your monthly periods become fewer and far between or they vary in the strength and the amount of shedding (menstruation).

The role of estrogen and progesterone in the reproductive cycle.

Estrogen is the female hormone largely responsible for your ovary’s releasing of an egg cell during ovulation. Progesterone, another female hormone, follows suit and prepares the uterine lining for possible egg fertilization and pregnancy. During this stage, when the lining of the uterine wall thickens, estrogen levels are low. This prevents eggs from being untimely produced and released by your ovaries.

When fertilization occurs, progesterone will continue to support the maintenance of the uterine wall as well as the development of the placenta; progesterone preserves the integrity of the uterine lining and prevents shedding during pregnancy. Estrogen, on the other hand, stimulates growth in the breasts and stimulates milk production in preparation for child birth and breast feeding.

Progesterone prepares the uterine lining for possible egg fertilization and pregnancy.

When no fertilization occurs, progesterone level drops and the lining of the uterine wall and the blood break down and are shed. This is the start of menstruation. At this point, the woman’s ovaries are gearing up (anew) for the next cycle of ovulation. At the proper time, estrogen levels will once again peak signalling the ovaries to release an egg. This, basically, is the normal reproductive cycle of a woman.

This is how crucial the balance between estrogen and progesterone is in a woman’s reproductive cycle. Estrogen largely dominates the first half of a woman’s reproductive cycle; while progesterone does the latter, in non-pregnant women. Generally speaking. Many serious health issues result when an imbalance in estrogen and progesterone levels prevails. But during menopause, estrogen production significantly drops. This drop in estrogen not only affects your reproductive cycle, but other functions as well.

Estrogen is also responsible for the maintenance and support of other body functions, including:

1) Female phenotype structure. This distinguishes a woman from a man in stature and physical development. A woman’s bones are generally smaller and shorter than a man’s. A woman’s body normally has wider hips and thighs. Also, the voice box develops narrower to produce a distinctly female voice. Girls develop mature female breasts. This is largely due to the predominance of estrogen.

2) Fat storage. Estrogen controls and coordinates where women are most likely to store their fats. This is why a woman’s hips grow wider than a man’s.

3) Skin condition. During menstruation, when a woman’s estrogen level is low, the dermis (middle layer of the skin) becomes thinner. Also, estrogen is known to suppress sebum production (oil secretions), which makes a woman’s skin less oily than a man’s. This is the reason it is less likely for females to develop acne.

4) Hair quality. Women have finer hair than men, and the hair on their heads are more permanent than in men.

5) Also, generally, estrogen helps maintain brain function, bone strength, energy balance, and heart health.

Increase in androgen in menopause.

The significant drop in estrogen production during menopause also seriously affects these bodily functions. This drop in estrogen is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, and weight gain. It also accounts for the proportional increase of androgen levels in the bloodstream. Androgen is often referred to as the male hormone. Women may not be aware, but their ovaries also produce androgen.

Sex drive and libido.

The science behind the relationship in the decrease in estrogen and increase (in proportion) of androgen is a bit confusing and a little tricky. Some say that if this is the case, i.e. that there is proportional increase in androgen during menopause, why is it that a woman’s sex drive or libido diminishes? Isn’t androgen (e.g. testosterone) responsible for strong sex drive and libido? But general observation abounds that during menopause, there is a decrease in the sex drive and libido of women. This much is clear: menopause diminishes a woman’s libido and desire for sex.

Older people still make love and have sex. However the libido does reduce with age.

One of the reasons, it is suspected, has nothing to do with the interaction of estrogen and androgen; but has everything to do with the cessation of progesterone production in menopause. One of the roles of progesterone, it is believed, is to promote sexual desire in women. Also, it is believed that progesterone is actively involved in the sexual fulfillment of men. But another reason associated with the lack of sexual desire in women is the thinning and dryness of the vaginal walls associated with menopause; which makes sexual contact uncomfortable. This directly relates to the significant decrease of estrogen, since estrogen is largely responsible for keeping the vaginal walls thick, lubricated, and elastic.

Menopause and body hair.

The significant decrease in the production of estrogen is also seen outwardly in the loss of hair. This is because estrogen is responsible for hair growth, and hair follicle maintenance.

1) The hair on your head.

You may have observed your hair thinning out or falling as you take a bath or comb your hair. Also, you may have noticed more of your scalp showing as you look in the mirror. In some instances, women have experienced localized baldness beginning to set in near the hairline or at the top. There are two causes why your hair thins out all over.

One is that, estrogen deficiency causes a weakening of your hair follicles. It is estrogen that stimulates the nourishment and growth of your hair follicles. When this fails, your hair follicles weaken and eventually some of them die, causing hair loss. Another reason is: when estrogen level drops, androgen can still stimulate new hair growth; but the hair quality is inferior, not as thick and strong as the female phenotype hair, and easily falls off.

The proportional increase of androgen is also largely responsible for the occurrence of localized baldness in some menopausal women. Androgen dominance is something women share with men who experience baldness beginning near their hairline or on the crown of their head towards their temples. In many cases, this is also associated with terminal hair growth in menopausal women.

2) Armpit and pubic hair.

Armpit and pubic hair is another area affected (positive?) by the drop in estrogen. Armpit and pubic hair is strictly regulated. Their growth is controlled, in that their length has limits. But during menopause, some women’s armpit hair have completely vanished. The shave (wax) and regrow cycle has all but completely stopped. The absence of armpit hair you experience is similar to your pre-puberty days. On the other hand, it is common experience for menopausal women for the strands of their pubic hair to become thinner and more diffuse or sparse; though majority would have nothing left completely in more elderly (post-menopausal) years.

3) Body hair.

Body hair is less obvious in women, generally, than in other parts where terminal hair grow more distinctly, e.g., armpits and pubis. The loss and thinning out of body hair seems to be a result of ageing in general than it is of estrogen deficiency in particular; although both are the main contributory factors. As the body grows older, there is poorer circulation of blood and nutrients around the skin.

Androgen and masculine hair growth.

If you have observed masculine hair growth in certain parts of your body (viz. your face) during menopause, it’s most probably caused by the proportional increase of your androgen levels. You may have observed it under your chin, or you may have noticed you’ve grown a thin mustache, or some sideburns. Androgen are the main cause why men grow mustaches and have goatees; and why some men have sideburns and all.

Now that your estrogen levels are low, your androgen are showing signs in places where they are welcome. As nature has it, you were made to (also) receive androgen influence in those areas; but were prevented to because of the dominance (before) of your estrogen. But now that your estrogen has become latent and largely inactive, the androgen your ovary produces are exerting their influence.

Recommended treatment for menopause and body hair loss.

If any of this — hair loss and masculine hair growth — begin to bother you; you should talk to your health care provider or doctor. They should have a better understanding of the science behind menopause and body hair loss and masculine hair growth. They would be more qualified to recommend remedies or treatments to help you overcome specific issues. Also, they should be able to rule out other probable causes of body hair loss and hair growth not related to menopause.

1) Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often recommended, but caution is advised in this course of action for its side effects, e.g. swelling of breasts, headaches, nausea, and vaginal bleeding. HRT is usually a combination of estrogen and progestin, and is designed to supply the hormonal balance to alleviate the symptoms of menopause and body hair loss. ERT (estrogen replacement therapy) on the other hand, is HRT that consists only of estrogen. Estrogen stimulates hair growth.

2) Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment. In PRP, blood is taken from your scalp and injected in areas where there is an absence of hair growth. The plasma that contains the growth factor in your blood is used to stimulate hair growth.

Have a positive outlook.

The outward changes often associated with menopause can have a psychological impact on women. Understanding the changes that happen inside your body should help you face the difficulties and challenges with confidence. Also, many of the inner struggles women face during menopause can be overcome with a positive outlook in life.

Live a healthy lifestyle.

Eat a balanced diet. Whatever diet plan you follow, choose health promoting foods.

Exercise regularly. This helps your blood circulate and your joints flexible.

Get enough sleep. Stop worrying too much, if you do. It doesn’t help.

Laugh. Go out with friends. No matter how old you are, you’re never old enough to laugh.

Travel. Travel while you still have strength in your bones. Seeing new places is refreshing and good for your soul.

Play with your grandchildren. They add a dimension of youth to you, and give a spark of daily happiness.

Believe. Have faith and live your life to the full.

Menopause has its difficulties and challenges. That’s why understanding how it works is important, because it frees you from fear of facing it. Embrace it. Menopause need not hinder you from living a rich and meaningful life.

Menopause And Hair Loss

Hair Loss During Menopause

Menopausal hair thinning is a common condition that most women suffer from as they enter the perimenopausal and menopause stages. Hormonal changes, weak immune system, hereditary factors, and nutritional changes are some of the things that can trigger hair loss. Although this condition is usually considered to be subtle in women (unlike men who normally have bald spots), its effects are typically distressing when it becomes worse.

Below is an overview of hair thinning in menopausal women, its effects, treatment options, and also management techniques.

The Menopause

When women hit their mid-40s, they start experiencing biological changes as their bodies evolve in anticipation of menopause. However, apart from actually reaching that age, external factors can also cause hair thinning and loss.

Causes Of Hair Loss

Hormones

Hormones are the primary cause of thin hair and sometimes hair loss in menopausal women. It should be noted that estrogen is required for the healthy development of thick hair. For instance, during pregnancy, women tend to have high levels of female hormones. During this period, women normally have fuller, thicker, and healthier hair.

But what happens exactly during menopause?

During this phase, the level of estrogen in the body starts to decline. On the other hand, the production of androgens, i.e. the male hormones, begin to increase. The compounding effect of this hormonal change is that hair follicles start to produce thinner hairs.

It should be noted that genetics also plays a crucial role in determining the strength of your hair. So, the combination of genetics with low levels of estrogen will lead to the development of progressively thinner and weaker hair follicles.

Hormonal change is the main culprit of thinning hair during menopause.

Thyroid disease:

Both menopause and thyroid disorders share the same symptoms. It is also worth noting that women who are at the menopausal age are more likely to develop thyroid disorders, i.e., hyperthyroidism. A prolonged and severe state of hypothyroidism can make your hair thinner and even lead to hair loss.

Nutritional changes:

The human body contains estrogen receptors, which are found in the hypothalamus gland. These receptors are responsible for controlling the way that the body uses its energy. They are also crucial in determining the rate of metabolism and hunger pangs. Once a woman reaches menopause, the level of estrogen rapidly declines. This has a direct impact on the way the estrogen receptors in the brain function. Overall, the resulting effect is that a female is highly likely to change their diet. They may be attracted to fast foods that are highly processed and sugary. These foods usually lack the essential nutrients and as a result, cause iron deficiency. The low iron content in the body is what sometimes causes thinning hair.

Illnesses:

The low levels of progesterone during menopause can trigger several illnesses. During this stage, a woman’s immune system is usually weak, and they are at a high risk of contracting infections. Menopause brings typically the onset of autoimmune disorders, which may damage the hair follicles and cause hair to thin or fall out. For instance, Lupus, Crohn’s disease, alopecia, and psoriasis are some of the autoimmune diseases that may cause hair thinning and sometimes hair loss.

Stress:

Besides illnesses, chronic stress is another condition that’s also common at this point. Due to other factors, people at this age tend to become more stressed. Clinically, there is a direct link between stress and hair thinning. High levels of stress in the body usually causes hormonal changes. The resulting impact of this is often visible through the hair in the form of thinning, and sometimes hair falling out.

Effects of Hair Thinning

The effects of hair thinning and hair loss during menopause can be devastating. Many women end up suffering from low self-esteem. According to physicians, society typically attributes healthy and thick hair to beauty and youth. To many women, having healthy hair makes them feel beautiful, and losing it can do the opposite.

It should be noted that psychological studies associate thinning hair to anxiety and depression. Furthermore, it can result in social withdrawal. But it doesn’t matter if your hair loss is caused by hormonal changes, diet, or an underlying medical condition. It’s still possible to restore hair thinning in menopausal women.

How to Treat Hair Loss And Hair Thinning

Menopausal women treat their thinning hair. Some of the effective treatment options include:

Using Hair Thinning Shampoos

Some shampoos can help to increase hair volume, making it thicker. These shampoos contain amino acids and vitamins which nourish the scalp and enhance the generation of healthier hair. To achieve the best results, use the strengthening shampoo every day.

Folic Acid Supplements

These supplements contain B-vitamins, which are vital for the generation of new cells. When dealing with hair thinning, folic acid supplements help the hair follicles to generate new hair effectively. However, there is a need for more research to determine the effectiveness of B-vitamins and hair thickening.

Minoxidil

It’s also known as Rogaine. This is an FDA-approved hair thinning and hair loss treatment that’s sold over-the-counter. Minoxidil enhances the thickening of thin hair. For better results, it should be applied on the scalp every day. If you are going to use minoxidil, you need to take it for almost 4 months to get tangible results. Additionally, you can use it in the form of foam or liquid.

Note: Minoxidil should be used consistently every day, or you may fail to see tangible results. Additionally, it may have adverse effects on some people. They include unwanted hair growth in areas such as the neck region and face. Furthermore, scalp irritation is a common side effect.

Home-based Laser Therapy

Previously, the FDA approved the use of laser therapy by dermatologists only. However, you can now use it at home. Home-based laser therapy designed for hair helps to enhance the development of new cells. As a result, it promotes the regrowth of thick healthier hair. But just like minoxidil, it may take several months before you get any positive results.

Note: As much as home-baser laser hair therapy is good, it’s actually costly. The equipment used in this process usually costs hundreds of dollars. This is obviously a significant investment, and you need first to consider other options.

Spironolactone

It’s also known as Aldactone. This is a prescription drug that’s normally prescribed to people, including menopausal women, suffering from hair thinning caused by androgen production. Spironolactone is considered a “water pill” and its also an anti-androgen.

It’s one of the better remedies for thinning hair in women who have reached menopause. This is because it helps to regulate hormonal fluctuations in this phase. However, the doctor needs to carry out blood tests before prescribing this drug.

Biotin

Biotin is also known as vitamin-B7. Biotin is a nutrient that’s considered water-soluble, and you can find it in various foods. As a solution for hair thinning and loss, it’s recommended that the affected person uses a biotin supplement. It promotes the breakdown of enzymes and can, therefore, lead to the development of thick hair.

Note: Biotin contains vitamin B7; hence, it shouldn’t be used together with Vitamin B5 supplements. This is because the combination of these vitamins typically reduces the effectiveness of one another.

Essential Oils

These are natural but highly effective liquids which are obtained from specific plants. They are commonly used in alternative medicine, including aromatherapy. One of the best types of essential oils for hair thinning is lavender oil. Evidence suggests that it can effectively minimize balding spots. When lavender oil is combined with thyme or rosemary, it often leads to the growth of thicker and healthier hair.

Fatty Acids

Fatty acids include omega-3 and -6. Fatty acids are also referred to as essential fatty acids because they can’t be produced naturally by the body. They are useful in facilitating the growth of thicker hair. It should be noted that omega-3 fatty acids help to fight inflammation. So, if your hair thinning is a result of an underlying medical condition, then this essential fatty acid can help to improve your condition. Omega-6-fatty acids, on the other hand, help to improve the skin’s health. Therefore, it can help to improve the scalp’s health and lead to the growth of thicker hair.

Corticosteroids

Just like omega-3 fatty acids, Corticosteroids help to fight underlying inflammation. The prescription drug can help to treat hair thinning thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps to improve the quality of your hair. Additionally, it makes it thicker and more pronounced on the head. Generally, hormone replacement is a form of therapy that helps to reduce the negative effects of menopause. It helps to increase the level of female hormones in the body and restore it to normal levels.

Note: Women can only undergo estrogen hormone replacement therapy if they have removed their uterus. This is because this medical procedure increases the risk of uterine cancer, and doctors won’t allow patients to use it due to safety issues.

Other Management Techniques

Transitioning to menopause is not easy. The body comes with a lot of physical changes. Besides that, there are a lot of emotional effects that occur. All these experiences can leave you feeling depressed with low self-esteem. Apart from the remedies mentioned above, some of the management techniques that you can use to prevent hair loss during menopause include:

Exercising

Exercising is not directly related to hair thinning, but it can be beneficial. Engaging in physical activities can help to improve your general health. Remember that stress and diseases usually peak during this phase.

Furthermore, they are among the major causes of hair thinning. But by exercising, you can minimize the severity of stress and reduce your chances of getting inflammatory diseases. This way, you will end up protecting your hair indirectly.

Avoid Stress

As stated above, menopausal women are at a high risk of developing chronic stress. The psychological effect of menopause is usually draining. However, stress causes typically adverse health effects, including hair thinning. It creates a decline in estrogen production, which generally leads to hair thinning or hair loss.

So, it’s essential to avoid stress. Engage in stress-reducing activities that can help to calm your body and relax your mind. They include yoga, meditation, tai chi, and Pilates, among others.

Drink Adequate Water

The effects of menopause also include physical appearance. Apart from skin changes, most women end up with hair loss/thinning. To reduce its impact, it’s important to drink adequate water daily. Ensure that you drink at least 8 glasses of water. It helps to flush out toxins in the body, which leads to inflammation.

Watch Your Diet

When a woman is in menopause, their diet matters. Their physical and emotional well-being requires that they attend to their nutritional needs. A significant percentage of their daily diet should be composed of fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, calcium-rich foods such as milk and yogurt are important for the development of bones. On the other hand, iron-rich foods like eggs, fish, and red meat supply the body with fiber. It’s important to avoid spicy food. Furthermore, cut your alcohol intake and ensure that you avoid caffeinated drinks.

Scalp Massage

This is a cheap management technique that’s readily available. Scalp massage enhances the development of thicker and healthier hair. You can do this when you wash your hair. Simply apply a gentle pressure on your scalp using your fingertips. Scalp massage enhances the flow of blood and also removes dead skin cells, which may hinder healthy hair growth.

Conclusion

According to research studies, more than 50 percent of women in menopause normally experience hair loss and thinning. This is a common condition that affects a large part of the population. Although hormonal change is usually considered as the main culprit, there are still other factors that can cause hair thinning.

Therefore, it’s important to consult a trichologist to determine the cause of hair thinning. Apart from prescription drugs, you can also use OTC medications. Furthermore, there are also home-based management techniques that can help nourish your hair. If you are a woman in menopause experiencing this condition, remember that you’re not alone. Also, don’t forget that it IS possible to grow your hair back thicker and healthier.

How to Remove Skin Tags Naturally & Safely

People generally like their skin to be clear and free of blemishes, so the sudden appearance of a skin tag can send many people into a panic, even though their presence is generally considered harmless.

Harmless they may be, but no one wants these odd skin protrusions, and most would like to find a way to make them go away as natural, safely, and quickly as they possibly can. So if you have ever wondered about skin tags or have such a growth somewhere on your body, don’t worry –– in the following article, we will take a look at some natural treatments with reputed benefits for skin tag removal.

But first, let’s get to know the issue a little better with this vital information on the skin growth in question.

What are Skin Tags, and where do they come from?

Skin tags are small harmless growths that can have the appearance of raised moles or small flat appendages. Skin tags grow out from the skin on a long thin stalk called a peduncle. Skin tags are not cancerous and comprise nothing more than fat and skin tissue, although they often appear darker or redder than the skin around them.

Skin tags will often grow due to constant contact with another part of the body or maybe a specific piece of clothing or jewelry always worn. Because they can appear in these specific locations where they see a lot of physical contact, it is common for skin tags to become very irritated. Other conditions that can contribute to skin tag formation include diabetes and pregnancy.

You will often find skin tags in the areas where skin receives physical contact the most. For example, common places could be around the breasts, under the arms, and neck. It is less common for these appendages to be found in the groin or under the eyelids.

No matter where they appear, it is always a good idea to have skin tags examined by a qualified dermatologist who can provide a proper analysis of the growth. Skin tags will never be a major health concern, but other skin conditions can have a similar appearance but require more urgent treatment. But, again, only a dermatologist would be able to say for sure.

Furthermore, your dermatologist may recommend some specific treatments for having the appendage removed. These will usually involve a minor procedure which can cost anywhere from $700 -$1500. This is always an available option as a last resort. But, first, it is always a good idea to exhaust some natural and cost-effective treatments before going under the surgeon’s clippers.

Removing Skin Tags Safely and Naturally

The most important thing you will need to do if you want to remove your skin tags safely and effectively is be careful about the advice you receive. You should take even the advice you read here with particular consideration for your own skin sensitivity. For example, some online “experts” suggest removal methods that involve stringing the tags until they fall off or clipping them off with scissors, utility knives, or nail clippers.

As a general rule of thumb, any of these methods that suggest a cutting solution should be avoided. It would be better to hand over some cash to your dermatologist for a pricy removal method rather than risk the results of trying to nip the tags yourself.

The location of your skin tags should also play an important role in the decision you make for the removal method. While a skin tag on the torso or arm can be subjected to home removal methods, those found near the eyes, breasts, groin, or other very visible or sensitive areas should never be removed at home. If you were to have an unpleasant reaction to a treatment method, it would be better to have this reaction somewhere out of sight.

You will want to be sure it is a skin tag you are attempting to remove. Other skin growths can have a similar appearance to a skin tag but have more severe consequences when treated.

Finally, remember that natural remedies always take a bit longer to take full effect. Please don’t be impatient about these techniques, and avoid the urge to try 6 of them at once. Make sure you begin applying these treatments to clean clear skin with no abrasions or broken skin. Also, try to address the skin tag’s full strength as much as possible. A little Vaseline around the tag will protect the healthy skin from exposure to any strong compounds.

As you apply a specific solution, you should be able to see some signs that the treatment is or isn’t working. If you see that any natural methods are causing you redness, pain, inflammation, or discomfort, you should discontinue the method immediately.

5 Natural Methods of Skin Tag Removal

1. Tea Tree Oil

This essential oil is one of the most versatile remedies you could hope for and has many benefits for addressing skin conditions. But, you should know that it is a very potent essential oil and should be used with carrier oils to avoid irritating sensitive skin. It is always a good idea to try a little of your treatment on an area of the skin where a slight irritation will not be a big problem. Then, if nothing happens, you know your skin treatment is safe.

You can apply tea tree oils to all types of skin blemishes because it will dry out the skin and lead to them falling off by themselves. Once you have combined your tea tree oils with its carrier, apply it to the tag on a sterile cotton ball. This should be done 3 to 4 times a day and left to work for around 10 to 20 minutes. The effect of this treatment should be visible in a few days.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Good old apples cider vinegar is in everyone’s kitchens, and it should be. There are so many health benefits and treatments that require this important ingredient. Apple cider vinegar can be used as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal skin treatment and can be watered down to an appropriate strength for your needs.

Get your sterile cotton ball and soak it with your vinegar solution. Like tea tree oil, the vinegar will attempt to dry out the skin and lead to the tag falling away. You will need to apply this solution to the skin tag for 20 minutes, better yet, half an hour. If you notice any skin irritation from the vinegar, discontinue your treatment.

3. Garlic

Another natural skin tonic than can potentially eliminate a skin tag is a tasty seasoning found in dishes from around the planet. Garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties but is more important as an anti-inflammatory.

Crushed garlic will need to be applied to your skin tag every day for two weeks. This is because the crushed garlic will attempt to wither your skin tag until it has disappeared. With this in mind, prepare a bandage that will hold the crushed garlic to the skin overnight. Take your time to plan this, so you don’t roll around in garlic juice all night.

4. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is another important skin treatment that can address the issue of skin tags. Sometimes skin tags are caused by stress from friction, poor health, or other issues. Coconut oil dramatically improves the skin’s health and even promotes more circulation of blood, oxygen, and vital nutrients.

How To: Coconut oils also contain lauric acid, which has benefits to treating some skin conditions but is mainly good as an antibacterial and antifungal. Because skin tags are not caused by bacteria or fungus, this treatment aims to improve the skin’s health, which may reduce the appearance of the skin tag.

5. Oil of Oregano

Oil of Oregano is one of the more potent essential oils. There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that oregano essential oils will be the best option for knocking that skin tag from its spot. This essential oil is very potent, so a good ratio would be 1 or 2 drops to a tablespoon of carrier oil. Try a small amount on your forearm to ensure there is no irritation before applying it to your skin tag.

This treatment must be applied to your skin tag as many times as possible and then be allowed to dry. Be careful about any skin irritations and allow the skin to rest before attempting to apply another coat.

Final notes on Dealing with Skin Tags

Some of the factors that contribute to the formation of skin tags can include physical contact or specific demands and strains on the body. By keeping the blood glucose level high and avoiding any consistent friction with any area of the skin, you may have a chance to prevent this unsightly menace altogether.

In the end, if your skin tags seem to resist all of these efforts to remove them, there are some OTC methods of skin tag removal that may interest you before you consider your dermatologist’s professional assistance. Of course, the professional route may offer a reduced risk of unpleasant side effects.

13 Essential Oils that Relieve Stress and Anxiety

essential oils often used in aromatherapy, can be applied directly to the skin or sprayed in the air through a diffuser. Some oils are even safe to eat and as an additive to beverages or foods. These oils have become famous for their benefits. They are also studied for their effects on mood and mental performance.

One area where essential oils have proven as very useful is relieving anxiety and stress. Research has supported their use for these purposes.

Here are 13 essential oils that can fight against anxiety and stress and leave you feeling calm and refreshed:

Coriander Oil

Research using animals has successfully proven that coriander oil helps stress and creates a calmness. In a 2005 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, scientists analyzed the effects of coriander on mice. They found that the coriander reduced anxiety and also seemed to relax the muscles. Coriander oil can be useful for treating symptoms of anxiety.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil has been shown to energize the body when you are feeling stressed. A 2009 study in the journal Scientia Pharmaceutica found that people massaged with rosemary oil reported feeling more alert, energetic, and cheerful.

Based on this research, rosemary oil could help relieve tiredness that has been caused by stress.

Chamomile Oil

Chamomile oil is thought to be able to treatclinical anxiety. A 2009 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology compared the effect of chamomile on a group of patients with generalized anxiety disorder. After eight weeks of treatment, the improvement in anxiety was greater among individuals taking the chamomile compared to those receiving a placebo.

Clary Sage Oil

Clary sage oil can be very effective for stress. A 2014 study in Phytotherapy Research found that when people inhaled clary sage oil, their levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, dropped significantly. Clary sage oil seems to be great for your body when it is dealing with stress.

Sweet Orange Oil

Sweet orange oil is useful for reducing anxiety. A 2012 study in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found people exposed to sweet orange oil before a stressful situation felt less anxiety and tension. Sweet orange oil could help people to remain calm during stressful situations.

Eucalyptus Oil

Researchers have studied eucalyptus oil to determine its effects on anxiety. A 2014 study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine looked at the impact of eucalyptus oil on patients undergoing a medical procedure. Study results showed that cineole, which is a chemical that is found in eucalyptus oil, lowered pre-treatment anxiety levels. This suggests that eucalyptus oil is useful in stressful situations.

Lavender Oil

The effectiveness of lavender oil has been shown clearly in research. A 2015 study in the International Journal of Nursing Practice analyzed the impact of lavender oil on a group of nurses experiencing stress when they were working. One group of nurses in the study had small bottles of lavender oil pinned to their chests, whereas another group carried an oil that did not contain lavender.

Results indicated that stress levels were lower among the nurses who had the lavender oil.

Bergamot Oil

Research with animals has shown that bergamot oil can relieve anxiety. A 2017 study in the journal Molecules looked at the effect of bergamot oil on rats completing tasks. Results found that the bergamot oil relaxed and reduced anxiety in the rats in the study.

Geranium Oil

Research with geranium oil has shown promising results. A 1995 study in the International Journal of Aromatherapy found that when people inhaled steam containing geranium oil, they experienced a decrease in anxiety. Geranium appears to be useful for providing fast relief from stress during tense situations.

Lemon Oil

Research has indicated that lemon oil can reduce stress. A 2006 study in Behavioural Brain Research studied the effects of lemon oil on mice completing stressful tasks, and results found that it was useful for lowering stress. The lemon oil was also shown to serve as an anti-depressant.

Ylang-Ylang Oil

Placing ylang-ylang oil on the skin can create a relaxing effect. In a 2006 study in Phytotherapy Research, ylang-ylang oil, when applied to participants’ skin, decreased their blood pressure levels. Subjects also reported feeling more calm and relaxed after applying ylang-ylang oil.

Rose Oil

Research has shown that rose oil reduces anxiety in animals. Scientists completed a study for a 2004 edition of Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior, in which they compared the effects of rose oil to those of an anxiety medication on rats completing a stressful task. Results showed that the rose oil reduced anxiety similarly to the anxiety medication.

Neroli Oil

Neroli oil appears to be useful for reducing stress. A study in a 2014 publication of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine compared the impact of neroli oil to that of a control oil on women experiencing menopause symptoms.

Results showed that compared to the control group, women who inhaled neroli oil experienced significant decreases in blood pressure. The neroli oil also showed to reduce heart rate and cortisol levels. These physiological responses to neroli oil suggest a calming effect.

Neroli oil is just one of many essential oils that have been found to have a beneficial impact.

Researchers have studied the effects of numerous essential oils and discovered that they are helpful for reducing stress and anxiety levels. Many of the essential oils discussed in this post have been found to have a calming effect and can serve as a natural treatment for symptoms of anxiety and stress.

6 ways to surprise your partner on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and as it gets closer, people start racking their heads trying to think of ways to show how much they love their partners…..

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and you probably want to start thinking of ways to show how much you love your partner. Getting them a gift has always worked, but sometimes you need to think outside the box and come up with other ideas.

The following are six ways to surprise your partner on Valentine’s Day:

1. Breakfast in bed

This is the way to go if you want to kick off your valentine’s day on a high note. However, it can’t just be an ordinary breakfast. Make your partner his/her favorite breakfast and serve it to them like the king or queen they should feel they are. You can even use the food to pass a message to them, for instance, through heart-shaped pancakes.

2. Make them an album or compilation video of your memorable moments together

If you have been together for a while, create a photo album of things that you have done together.

If you’ve been together for a long time, you probably have thousands of pictures and videos you’ve taken together. Go through them and pick those that you know have some emotional meaning or were taken during special moments. You may need your geeky nephew’s help to make the video if you are not tech-savvy.

3. Take them on a surprise getaway trip

couple holding hands — A getaway for just the two of you can be great for your relationship.

A lot of couples never get to enjoy time alone and together, especially with young kids or jobs that don’t allow them to see each other enough. A getaway trip is perfect for getting you and your partner some alone time away from the regular schedule. The trip doesn’t have to be expensive. Even if just a day, you get to spend quality time with your partner without worrying about other people or responsibilities back home.

4. Be creative or crafty

heart made from yarn — If you do it correctly, then a hand-made gift can go down really well.

Getting your loved one an expensive gift may make them smile, but what will bring tears to their eyes – hopefully of happiness – is giving them a gift that you made for them. Think of what they love and have a passion for. Use that as inspiration to craft the perfect gift. Something you can try is making them DIY cards with special messages that mean something just to them. This is far more thoughtful than generic messages found in other cards.

5. Take a trip down memory lane

Every couple has those moments that truly define their relationship and love for each other. Surprise your partner by going to some of the places where those moments happened, such as where you first met or where you first kissed. Reliving old memories together helps both of you remember where it all started and why you fell for each other.

6. Surprise them with flowers at their workplace

Flowers are accepted all over the world as the gift that shows your love for someone. Sending flowers to your partner at their workplace makes them feel appreciated especially since they get to show it off to other workmates. You can even go the extra mile and make the delivery yourself. You can include a heartfelt note saying how much you love them or what you plan to do to them later that night.

7. Have their favorite cocktail waiting for them when they get home

Research really exotic sexy cocktails, you know, the really pretty ones you have to make an effort to prepare with names like Blushing Geisha and Love Potion #9 . Get it all ready and then have it waiting for your partner when they get home. For bonus points wear something sexy to correspond. Here’s a link to some Valentine’s Day Cocktails to get your inspired.

BONUS Make sure your bikini line is tidied up

You’ll really get bonus points if you tidy up the bikini line. Here are some great ways to do it, at home. Read more here.