Your hair isn't being difficult. Your hormones are shifting it.
Hair looks and feels different, but you can’t figure out why? It could be hormones.
Many women notice their hair changing during pregnancy, after birth, or around menopause. Texture can shift. Waves can loosen or tighten. Volume might increase, then suddenly drop.
It can feel confusing, especially if your routine hasn’t changed at all.
Hormonal changes can have a big impact on how your hair grows, feels, and behaves. We’re looking at why…
Hair growth is closely linked to hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones influence the hair growth cycle, oil production, and even the shape of the hair follicle itself.
When hormone levels fluctuate, hair grows different, feels different, and looks different.
For wavy hair, this often shows up as changes in definition, thickness, and overall texture.
During pregnancy, higher oestrogen levels often keep more hair in the growth phase for longer. This is why many women notice thicker-feeling hair, less shedding, and softer waves during this time.
Some even find their texture loosens slightly, feeling more relaxed and hydrated than usual. Others notice waves becoming more defined. It varies from person to person, but the common thread is that hair often feels fuller and more resilient.
After birth, though, hormone levels drop quickly.
This can lead to increased shedding a few months later. This can feel alarming, but it is usually temporary. As the body readjusts, hair gradually returns to its usual rhythm, just sometimes with a slightly different texture than before.
Around menopause, dropping oestrogen levels can lead to hair feeling drier, finer, or less dense. Oil production may slow down, which can make waves feel rougher or more prone to frizz than they used to be.
Some women notice their waves loosening over time, while others find their texture becoming slightly more textured or unpredictable.
Again, there’s no single “normal” outcome, just a natural response to changing hormone levels.
It can be unsettling when you feel like you don’t know your hair anymore. Changes in texture, volume, and shedding can leave us scratching our heads. But it’s important to remember, your body has simply changed. And your hair is adjusting to that.
Consistency and kindness go a long way here. Hair going through hormonal changes often benefits from gentler handling, more attention to moisture, and realistic expectations while things settle.
Avoid over-styling or trying to force your hair back to its old ways.
Instead, think about what it’s asking you for. Softer waves, less density, or extra dryness are all common responses to hormonal change.
If your hair is screaming out for more moisture, extra hydrating treatments are a great idea. Our Protein Treatment feeds your hair with the proteins it needs to stay strong, elastic and healthy.
Your waves are still yours. They’re just moving through a new chapter. All they need is a little more support.
