After welcoming your baby, you might notice your hair isn’t quite what it used to be. Postpartum hair loss is a common issue, often starting around five months after childbirth. This unexpected challenge adds to the numerous changes your body undergoes post-pregnancy.
As your due date approaches, you're eagerly awaiting the arrival of your baby. However, there’s one change you might dread: the loss of the thick, shiny hair that’s been flourishing during your pregnancy.
So, what is Postpartum hair loss?
Postpartum hair loss can be one of the most daunting challenges new mothers face after childbirth. Known as Telogen Effluvium, this condition leads to noticeable and often distressing hair shedding. Unlike the usual daily hair loss, which averages around 100 strands a day, postpartum hair loss involves a more significant loss (ah, about 400+!), leaving many women feeling overwhelmed.
During pregnancy, elevated hormones help keep your hair in its growth phase longer, preventing the usual shedding. But once you’ve given birth, these hormone levels drop, triggering a surge of hair falling out as your hair follicles transition back to their normal cycle.
Our Founder's Story
"I vividly recall the moment I noticed clumps of hair in the shower drain. It was a startling sign, especially after enduring IVF treatments for my first child, George. The physical and emotional toll of IVF left me unprepared for the visible changes to my hair and skin. During treatment, nurses discussed various symptoms, but often overlooked the full spectrum of changes, including postpartum hair loss and hormonal imbalances. The significant shifts your body experiences can be overwhelming.
My husband often said that the drain was clogged again, and I realised something was wrong when I constantly found myself ‘fishing out’ hair.
The situation intensified after childbirth. I was unprepared for the severity of postpartum hair loss. I made several changes to my hair care routine. I washed my hair less frequently and adopted new practices such as using a silk pillowcase.
Before incorporating our hair Masque, my hair was weak, dull, brittle, and prone to split ends.
Three years after having my second child, Aria (she was 1 in the photo), and perfecting our hair Masque’s formulation, I’m so happy to say my hair is now healthier, shinier, and growing back to how it was. The transformation has been remarkable, thanks to regular use of the Masque, a balanced diet, and gentle hair care techniques. While some improvements are immediate, nurturing those 'baby hairs' requires time."
Just as it takes time for our bodies to adjust post-pregnancy, our hair also needs time to recover and replenish.
Tips and Natural Remedies for Managing Postpartum Hair Loss
If you’re dealing with postpartum hair loss, here are some tips and natural remedies to support healthy hair growth:
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Skip the Styling: Avoid heat styling tools like hair dryers and curling irons, as they can make your hair appear thinner. Let your hair air-dry and be gentle when brushing to prevent excessive hair fall.
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Regular Scalp Massages: Use a Scalp Renewal Brush to massage your scalp. This can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting growth and improving scalp health.
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Balanced Diet: Maintain a diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health, such as biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, carrots, eggs, and fish are particularly beneficial.
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Use Hair Masks: Incorporate a hair Masque into your routine for deep conditioning and regular nourishment.
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Natural Remedies: Aloe vera can soothe the scalp and condition hair. Essential oils like rosemary and peppermint oil (featured in our Masque) can stimulate hair growth when massaged into the scalp.
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Consult a Professional: If you experience severe hair loss or bald patches, consult a dermatologist or medical professional. Hair concerns should be raised with a medical professional.
Remember, postpartum hair loss is a temporary phase. With patience and self-care, your hair will bounce back. Embrace the changes and focus on nourishing yourself during this transformative period.
Jessica, Founder
Sources:
- HairLoss in New Moms. (2010, August 5)
https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/hair-care/hair-loss-in-new-moms - MayoClinic Staff. (2014, July 11). Heart conditions and pregnancy: Know the risks.Retrieved from
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20045977 - Yourbody after baby: the first 6 weeks. (2012, July)
http://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/your-body-after-baby-the-first-6-weeks.aspx