Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen & How Do You Remedy It?
Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss Causes & Treatments
As a new mom it can be rare to find time to shower. It can be alarming, then, to notice all of the hair coming out when you are in the shower. And when you brush your hair. Also when you are just walking or sitting. Postpartum hair loss can be a surprising part of life after baby for many women. However, it is nothing to be alarmed about. Hair loss after pregnancy is normal and it will not last forever. With the help of some great accessories, a few tips, and some patience, you will learn to rock the baby bangs until things are back to normal.
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
When you were pregnant, you may have experienced an added radiance to your hairstyle. This is because of, you guessed it, hormones. This is also known as postpartum alopecia. As hormones like estrogen and progesterone rise, this promotes hair growth and keeps your hair from falling out like it typically does. On average, people lose between 50-100 hairs a day. During pregnancy, your hormones and prenatal vitamins often promote quicker hair growth and less hair loss. After a couple of months postpartum your estrogen levels fall and so do more strands of hair.
If you are a new mom, you will likely notice postpartum hair loss start a couple of months after having your baby. I distinctly remember this between 3-4 months after having my babies. Hair loss is considered normal between 2-12 months after having your baby and for each woman the timeframe is different.
postpartum hair loss treatment
If you are experiencing the hair loss and regrowth that comes after having a baby, here are a few tips for dealing with postpartum hair loss.
1. Continue your vitamins
While they are not exactly postpartum hair loss vitamins, many providers recommend continuing to take your prenatal vitamins through the postpartum season. There are many continued benefits to continuing to use the supplements to provide nutrients you may not otherwise have. Some companies make postnatal vitamins specifically for women in the postpartum season which are similar to prenatal but have different components specifically for after birth and/or breastfeeding.
2. minimize stressful situations
While it is difficult to control many things that happen in your life after baby, minimizing your stress response has numerous benefits. One benefit to minimizing stress is losing less hair. Stress responses can trigger hormonal reactions that can cause you to lose more hair. By practicing things like mindfulness and meditation, you can gain more control over how you react to stress and allow your body to be less triggered.
3. Get enough protein in your diet
Anemia or iron deficiency can cause your hair to fall out more. New moms can have a difficult time getting a balanced diet. Prioritize foods that are rich in vitamins and get the recommended servings of protein. An overall nutritional diet can help to minimize hair loss.
4. be gentle on your hair
When it comes to hairstyles and brushing, be extra gentle on your hair. This means avoiding tight ponytails and rough brushing.
5. avoid chemical products
This is a great time to avoid chemicals on your hair that might cause more shedding. Perms, dyes, etc. are best to wait until your hair has the chance to get back to its’ normal growth patterns. It is also great to avoid hot heat from a hair dryer or straightener. This can be good timing since the time you have to get ready daily might be decreased in this season!
6. invest in cute headbands
While the above tips are helpful and can cut down on hair loss, the reality is most new moms will experience hair loss more than usual after having a baby. You will eventually get to know the postpartum hair loss regrowth that ends in “baby bangs” or “wings.” This is where the messy bun and cute headbands come into play to add some style and hide the little fuzzies across your forehead.
7. Blood work
If you notice that postpartum hair loss is going on for a long time, usually beyond a year after birth, you want to check in with a doctor. Factors such as iron deficiency, thyroid issues, or another medical factor could be impacting your hair loss after pregnancy.
Postpartum hair loss can be inconvenient, but it is usually nothing to worry about. You may need to clean your shower more and get a great vacuum, but you are not alone! Plus, baby bangs and wings are totally coming into style.
