Strictly star, 36, shares perimenopause diagnosis after symptoms left her 'down'

Dani Harmer, the actress famed for her role as Tracy Beaker, has reached out to her fanbase for advice after disclosing her struggle with perimenopause and its distressing symptoms including

hair loss. The Strictly Come Dancing star, renowned for bringing Jacqueline Wilson's character to life from 2002 to 2005, shared an emotional TikTok video to talk about her diagnosis.

Dani expressed the difficulties she's facing due to the perimenopausal hormonal changes, stating: "I have been diagnosed with perimenopause. And what I need your help with is my

hair. I am losing it – like it is thinning so badly you can see the bald patches coming in." The 36-year-old then relayed her concerns about her hair's diminishing volume:

"Just like the texture – it's thinning. It's bad, right?" She questioned her followers on whether hair extensions might be a solution, despite worrying they could

exacerbate the problem. Dani mentioned: "It could be a terrible idea. It might make my hair even worse, to be honest. But it's really getting me down now." She revealed it was

her husband, Simon Brough, who first became aware of shifts in her mood and behaviour, as she admitted: "He could see the difference – especially with my depression and anxiety."

Dani further highlighted her battle with brain fog, night terrors, and other common indicators of perimenopause, which is the term given to the phase preceding menopause that can commence in

women's 30s or 40s. Despite the hurdles she's faced, Dani revealed that after nearly two years on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), she finally feels like herself again.

"The only things that have really stuck are the hair loss and the odd hot flush," she added. The actress went on to share her experiences with other women going through the same

thing, stating: "I'm definitely no expert at all! But if anyone has any questions I'll try and answer using my experiences." Her video received a wave of emotional

support from fans, as well as practical suggestions for combating her hair loss. Suggestions included collagen powder, rosemary oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and silk pillowcases. One

commenter advised: " Nooo no extensions – this will thin it more. Wear your hair down more, no tight hair bands. Change your shampoo and routines. Change your parting regularly.

I'm going through the same." Perimenopause can trigger a variety of symptoms including irregular periods, mood swings, brain fog, hot flushes, and sleep issues. Other common signs

of this transitional period include vaginal dryness, sensitive teeth, low libido, and changes in skin and hair.