Even though pregnancy and delivery are one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences, the body must endure physical strain. It can occasionally manifest itself in the strangest ways, as in your hair. A typical occurrence is postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum telogen effluvium, in which a woman who has recently given birth experiences clumpy hair loss followed by short, tufty hair growth. Postpartum hair loss commonly begins 6 to 12 weeks after giving birth and is brought on by declining estrogen levels.
Between 40 and 50 percent of women lose their hair after giving birth. In addition to psychological issues like postpartum depression, physiological events like blood and fluid loss during childbirth also contribute to postpartum hair loss. By causing more hair to transition from the anagen (active growth phase) into the telogen (resting phase), these variables can disrupt the growth cycle of your hair (resting phase).
You should be aware that there is no set period during which you will experience postpartum hair loss if you anticipate it every time you comb your hair. One to six months after giving birth is the window of opportunity. Most women, however, begin to notice thinning three months after giving birth, usually in the areas around their crowns or temples. Three to four months after giving birth, postpartum hair loss typically reaches its peak and begins to decline; you might notice any hair clumps in your drain or brush getting smaller. Despite how frustrating it is to lose a lot of hair, it is essential to remember that this is only temporary.
So what should new mothers be doing to prevent postpartum hair loss?
- Avoid using a hairdryer and other expensive styling tools until the thinning stops. Use SLS and paraben-free hair products and wash your hair less often to give your hair strands time to breathe and adapt. Use a gentle brush when necessary because brushing too hard can worsen hair shedding. To reduce potential damage, use a soft scrunchie or hair clip instead of an elastic hair tie when putting your hair up. If the hair loss worsens despite all these measures, consider consulting an online dermatologist.
- One of the best postpartum things you can do is to prioritize your nutrition. Your skin and hair health will greatly benefit from it, helping you lose the extra pregnancy weight! To ensure your body gets the nutrients it requires, incorporate a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins into your daily rotation.
- Your hair can gain body and maintain a lustrous, full appearance with the help of volumizing shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments. These products frequently include components like protein that coat the hair and shield it from further harm.
- Stress hormones like cortisol can severely impact the hair cycle. With a newborn, it can be challenging to limit stress, but doing so can help your body have fewer hormone imbalances. Accept assistance and get as much rest as possible when aid is offered. Stress reduction techniques include meditation and relaxing activities like postnatal yoga and strolls around the neighborhood.
- Use minoxidil 2% if you are not breastfeeding and have thin hair or baldness as a genetic predisposition. By extending the hair’s growth phase and boosting blood flow to the scalp, minoxidil, an OTC, an FDA-approved remedy, can promote regrowth.
Do not forget that postpartum hair loss is normal and only temporary. Your hair can regain some normalcy with certain products and treatments. The amount of hair you lose after having a baby can be stopped with a combination of vitamins and minerals and the proper hair care regimen.
