Field Note: The Ponytail Test

Let’s talk about the moment.

You know the one.

You pull your hair into a ponytail—same motion you’ve done for decades—and suddenly it feels… thinner. Lighter. Less substantial.

You wrap the elastic one more time than usual and think, Huh.

Fast forward 24 hours and you’re deep in a Google spiral typing things like “Is hair loss normal for women?” and “Why is my part wider?” at 11:47 p.m.

Welcome to the emotional roller coaster that is midlife hair loss.

Snacks not included.

First, the Truth (Because We’re Adults Here)

Hair loss in women is incredibly common—far more common than we admit out loud. Hormones shift. Stress piles up. Genetics clock in on time. Nutrition fluctuates. Life does what life does. And suddenly, your hair decides to respond dramatically.

Rude? Yes.Normal? Also yes.

The problem isn’t that hair loss happens. It’s that no one prepared us for how personal it feels. Hair isn’t just hair—it’s identity, confidence, and that quiet reassurance that at least one thing is still cooperating.

Naturally, We Try Everything

Because if women are anything, we are resourceful.

We start with silk pillowcases (I love mine and yes, I travel with it—judge quietly). Then come scalp massages, supplements that promise miracles, and vitamins that say “supports hair health” in tasteful fonts. If there’s even a suggestion it might help, we’re taking it.

And honestly? Some of it works.

Enter: The Scalp Renaissance

One of the surprise stars of the hair-loss conversation is red light therapy—and no, it’s not woo-woo. It’s actually science-backed and quickly becoming a favorite for a reason. Gentle light energy supports circulation at the scalp, helping create an environment where hair follicles can do their thing. It’s calm, non-invasive, and feels like a tiny spa moment for your head. Your follicles? Big fans.

Then there’s the rise of scalp spas, which—if you haven’t noticed—are having a moment. Think exfoliating treatments, nourishing masks, tension-melting massages, and circulation-boosting rituals that treat your scalp like the VIP it is. It’s self-care, but make it strategic.

What’s Actually Helped Me (Real Talk for Nurse Donna)

Nurse Donna: I’ve been on this journey for a while. For about two years, I took Nutrafol, and yes—it genuinely made a difference. My shedding decreased, and my temples started filling in beautifully. The only downside? Four capsules a day felt like a commitment.

So when Extressé Hair Gummies came along, I was immediately interested. I’ve been taking them for six months now and I’m genuinely happy with the results. They taste great (this matters), have similar supportive ingredients, and—unexpected bonus—they helped me relax and sleep better. Midlife multitasking at its finest.

And then there’s Keravive by Hydrafacial, which is quite literally a facial for your scalp—by the people who know facials better than anyone. It uses gentle suction to exfoliate, remove buildup, and stimulate the scalp so follicles are open and receptive. I’ve been doing it consistently and would absolutely recommend it. If your face deserves a facial, your scalp does too.

The Bigger Picture (Because It’s Never Just One Thing)

Here’s the thing no one wants to hear but everyone needs to know: hair loss isn’t one-size-fits-all.

There are many types—pattern hair loss, stress-related shedding, autoimmune-related loss, postpartum changes, hormonal shifts, and even hair loss caused by tension from tight ponytails, braids, or extensions (yes, our hairstyles have betrayed us).

This is why seeing a dermatologist can be such a smart move. They can help identify what type of hair loss you’re dealing with and guide you toward treatments that actually make sense for your body.

The Takeaway (Spoiler: It’s Hopeful)

Hair loss can be sneaky. Emotional. A little dramatic. (We are not above a spiral.) But it is also manageable.

With smart, science-backed supplementation, scalp treatments that support circulation, red light therapy, and a clearer understanding of what’s happening internally, the path back to fuller, healthier hair feels far less stressful—and honestly, a lot more luxurious.

So no, this is not the end of your great hair days.

It’s just your hair entering In Phase Three—and like everything else in this season of life, it requires a little more intention, a little more care, and zero shame.

And frankly? We’ve handled much harder things than a thinning ponytail. RIGHT!