All You Need to Know About Postpartum Hair Loss 

You gave birth a few months ago and your body is adjusting back to its “new normal”. As soon as you discover your rhythm with your little one, a sudden roadblock appears: postpartum hair loss. 

Postpartum hair loss can be isolating, especially if you don’t know anyone else that’s experiencing it. In addition, you may have had thick, fast-growing hair during pregnancy due to a hormone called placental estrogen flooding your body. The transition from having thick, luscious hair to having your hair falling out isn’t easy. 

Luckily, we’ve gathered all the information you need to know on postpartum hair loss prevention and recovery. Use these tips to learn about postpartum hair loss and how you can be prepared when it occurs. 

 
What is postpartum hair loss? 

Postpartum hair loss is hair loss after pregnancy. The hair falls out suddenly, sometimes shedding in clumps. As your hormones level out, the effects of the high estrogen you had during pregnancy slowly fade away. But there’s no need to worry- it's a very common as hair loss is often part of the process of returning to normal. 
 

How common is postpartum hair loss? 

Hair loss is very common in postpartum women. According to Today’s Parent, up to 90 percent of women will have a form of postpartum alopecia (or hair loss). 
 

What causes postpartum hair loss? 

During pregnancy, excess estrogen encourages your hair to grow faster. During postpartum, estrogen levels drop back down to pre-pregnancy levels. A combination of decreased estrogen levels, little sleep and changes in other hormonal levels can all be contributing factors to rapid hair loss. 

There are also other reasons why hair loss occurs. Changes in oral birth control, particular in mothers that are breastfeeding, can alter the hair cycle and contribute to hair shedding. Another aspect to check is your vitamin levels. You can check to see if there is an underlying vitamin deficiency with basic bloodwork.

 
 
When does hair loss typically occur? 

Hair loss starts a few months after giving birth, typically occurring at 3-4 months postpartum. 
 

How long does it last? 

Every woman experiences postpartum hair loss differently, but most will return to their usual hair growth cycle between 6 and 12 months postpartum.  

 
What can you do to limit postpartum hair loss? 

If you implement appropriate strategies before hair loss begins, there are ways to minimize postpartum hair loss. Three months prior to postpartum, prepare your scalp by decreasing the use of heat tools, such as curling or flat irons. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Avoid tight ponytails, take vitamins that your doctor recommends, and utilize products with biotin. 
 

How can I manage postpartum hair loss? 

If you’re currently experiencing postpartum hair loss and are looking for ways to manage it, follow these tips: 

1. Keep your hair moist. Look for a deep leave-in conditioner to use after shampooing. 


2. Volumize your hair with a mousse. Creating more volume in your hair will help you cover up the patches of hair loss. 


3. Add texture by blow drying. By blow drying your hair, you’ll create more volume and texture that will also help cover up the patches of hair. 


4. Wear a headband. Headbands are great ways to cover up patches around the crown of your head. They also make hairstyling quick and easy. 


5. Adjust your hair part. Moving your hair part from your typical style to something new will also disguise patches of lost hair. 

 
https://livecorestrong.com/postpartum-hair-loss/ 
https://www.pampers.com/en-us/pregnancy/giving-birth/article/postpartum-hair-loss