Doctor says specific nutrient helps strengthen hair, skin and nails during menopause

A GP has shed light on the impact of menopause on women's hair, skin and nails, attributing these issues to hormonal changes. Dr Gill Jenkins, who advises M-Club, a new health and wellness range for menopause that includes online support, highlighted the psychological effects of these physical changes.

Dr Jenkins said: "So, it comes as no surprise that a report by M-Club, shows that 47% of women going through menopause feel unconfident."

She explained the link between declining hormone levels and various symptoms: "Decreasing hormone levels can lead to dry, frizzy, hair and there may be thinning too. In a recent study it was shown that over 50% of menopausal women experience some degree of hair loss. Low oestrogen levels can also make skin dry, saggy and lined, and nails more brittle."

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However, Dr Jenkins pointed out that hormones aren't the sole culprits: "But, it's not always purely hormones that are to blame. A deficiency in biotin - vitamin B7 - can also cause hair, skin and nail problems, and exacerbate such issues in menopause. In the UK, it's recommended that adult women get 30mcg micrograms (mcg) of biotin every day."

She also noted a concerning statistic regarding biotin intake: "In reality, the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) shows the daily average is 29mcg. This falls just under the recommended intake - a small gap, but it matters.

"We need biotin to help process glucose and support the enzymes that break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates, converting these into energy. Biotin is mainly obtained from food such as cooked eggs, nuts, sardines, liver, salmon, broccoli, bananas, mushrooms, spinach - but it can also be produced in small amounts by bacteria in the gut. It is water soluble and can't be stored in the body. So, it's important to get enough.

"Research has found that biotin deficiency was found in 38% of women, who complained of hair loss. Making sure biotin levels are topped up during the menopause is especially important, as factors such as taking certain medications, having bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease (which can affect absorption of nutrients), smoking, drinking alcohol and simply getting older, can lead to depletion.

"However, in addition to these challenges, we know from the NDNS that most women are short of B7 as many of us find it hard to eat five fruit and veg a day."

Dr Jenkins suggested "bridging any deficiencies" with supplements like the M-Club Skin, Hair and Nails Oral Supplement Spray which contains biotin (vitamin B7) and promotes hair growth and strengthens nails. She also recommended combining this with a healthy, balanced diet and staying active.