Postpartum hair shedding, also known as postpartum hair loss, is a common phase during the postpartum period. It occurs when estrogen levels drop significantly after childbirth, causing more hair follicles to enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair loss. This phenomenon can be noticed around three to six months postpartum and manifests as excessive hair loss during brushing, showering, or styling, particularly around the temples, crown, and part line. It is usually temporary and resolves within a few months as hormone levels stabilise and the hair growth cycle returns to normal. It is essential to differentiate postpartum hair shedding from other hair loss forms, such as alopecia or pattern baldness, which may require different treatments. If you are concerned about the severity or duration of postpartum hair shedding or notice other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for reassurance and guidance.
The following are the primary causes of postpartum hair loss:
- Hormonal fluctuations:
High estrogen levels during pregnancy can prolong the hair cycle’s growth phase, resulting in thicker hair. However, estrogen levels decrease after childbirth, causing more hair follicles to enter the resting phase, leading to increased shedding and postpartum hair loss.
- Telogen effluvium:
Postpartum shedding is a type of telogen effluvium, characterised by a temporary hair growth cycle disruption, where a higher proportion of hair follicles enter the telogen phase prematurely, leading to increased shedding.
- Stress:
Pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn adjustment can be physically and emotionally stressful experiences. This disrupts the hair growth cycle and is exacerbated by hormonal changes during childbirth, contributing to hair loss.
- Nutritional defficienncies:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to nutritional deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals including iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E, resulting in hair loss postpartum.
- Physical trauma:
Childbirth can be physically traumatic, and specific medical interventions like anaesthesia or cesarean section surgery can cause stress on the body, potentially leading to postpartum hair loss.
- Sleep deprivation:
New mothers often experience disrupted sleep patterns, increased stress, and hormonal imbalances, which can lead to hair loss.
Take the following actions to promote healthy hair growth and minimize postpartum hair loss:
- Nutritious diet:
- Protein:
Hair growth relies on protein, so consuming enough from sources like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes, and nuts is crucial for healthy hair.
- Iron:
Iron deficiency can cause hair loss, so to prevent hair loss, consume iron-rich foods like lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals.
- Omega-3 fatty acids:
Omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans are essential for hair follicle nourishment and healthy scalp circulation.
- Vitamin A:
Vitamin A is crucial for sebum production, promoting scalp and hair health. Consume foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, kale, and butternut squash rich in vitamin A.
- Vitamin C:
Vitamin C, an antioxidant, protects hair follicles from free radical damage, and rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, and tomatoes are recommended.
- Vitamin E:
Vitamin E boosts scalp blood circulation, promoting hair growth. Consume nuts, seeds, spinach, and avocado as sources of vitamin E.
- Vitamin D:
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to hair loss, suggesting that maintaining adequate levels may benefit hair health. If sunlight and diet aren’t enough, taking a vitamin D supplement may be helpful, especially in areas with limited sun exposure.
- Zinc:
Zinc, a crucial mineral, may aid in hair growth and repair, reducing hair shedding and promoting healthy hair growth in individuals with zinc deficiency.
- Biotin:
Biotin, vitamin B7, is crucial for hair, skin, and nail health. Supplementation may strengthen hair and reduce shedding, but further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
- Collagen:
Collagen, a protein that supports hair, skin, and nails, can be improved by supplementing collagen peptides, particularly hydrolysed collagen supplements, for easier absorption.
- Stay hydrated:
- Moisture balance:
Proper hydration is essential for maintaining moisture balance in hair, as dehydration can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
- Scalp health:
Maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial for hair growth, as dehydration can cause dryness, itchiness, and flakiness.
- Nutrient transport:
Adequate hydration is crucial for nutrient transport to hair follicles, ensuring the proper absorption of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for healthy hair growth.
- Hair elasticity:
Hydration enhances hair elasticity, making it less susceptible to damage and breakage. Hair becomes stronger and more elastic as a result.
- Natural shine:
Hydration is crucial for enhancing hair’s natural shine and lustre. Dehydrated hair appears dull and lacklustre, while well-hydrated hair effectively reflects light.
- Gentle hair care:
- Use a mild shampoo:
Choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that doesn’t strip hair of natural oils, especially for thin or damaged hair, as they tend to be gentler.
- Be mindful when washing:
Avoid vigorous scrubbing when shampooing your hair, as it can cause stress and damage. Instead, gently massage shampoo into your scalp and let the suds cleanse your hair as you rinse.
- Condition regularly:
Apply a moisturising conditioner after shampooing to hydrate and nourish hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends. After cleaning it well, let it sit for a few minutes.
- Detangle with care:
Use a wide-tooth comb or gentle brush to remove knots and tangles from your hair, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Avoid pulling or tugging, especially when wet and prone to breakage.
- Limit heat styling:
Excessive use of heat-styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage hair cuticles and cause breakage. Use them on low or medium heat settings and apply a heat protectant spray beforehand.
- Avoid tight hairstyles:
Avoid wearing hairstyles that pull on hair, such as tight ponytails, braids, or buns, as they can cause unnecessary tension, hair breakage, and shedding.
- Protect your hair at night:
Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to prevent friction and breakage, and loosely braid or tie your hair back to avoid tangling during sleep.
- Be gentle when drying:
Avoid vigorously rubbing hair with a microfiber towel, as it can cause friction and damage. Let it air dry naturally to minimise heat exposure.
- Manage stress:
- Practice relaxation techniques:
Embrace relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to calm your mind, reduce stress, and enhance your overall well-being.
- Engage in physical activity:
Regular exercise, including moderate-intensity activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or dancing, can reduce stress and boost mood.
- Prioritise self-care:
To nourish your body and soul, prioritise self-care activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as bathing, reading, hobbies, or outdoor activities.
- Connect with others:
Maintaining social connections with loved ones can provide emotional support and perspective, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
- Set realistic expectations:
Maintain self-kindness and set realistic daily goals, avoiding excessive pressure to be perfect or complete everything. It’s acceptable to seek help when needed and remember that it’s okay to seek help when needed.
- Establish boundaries:
Setting clear boundaries and avoiding activities that drain energy or cause unnecessary stress is essential to prioritising your well-being.
- Get sufficient sleep:
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and aim for 7-9 hours per night to ensure quality sleep, manage stress, and support overall health.
- Professional advice:
- Evaluation:
Healthcare providers review medical history, including pregnancy-related factors, medications, health conditions, diet, lifestyle, stress levels, hair care practices, and existing health conditions.
- Physical examination:
A physical examination of the scalp and hair can assess the degree of hair loss and identify any underlying scalp problems or other contributing factors.
- Discussion:
Your healthcare provider will address postpartum hair loss concerns, provide information on causes and treatment options, and advise on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and hair care routine.
- Diagnostic test:
Healthcare providers may suggest additional diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, to identify nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to hair loss.
- Treatment recommendations:
Based on individual needs and evaluation, healthcare providers may recommend topical treatments, oral medications, supplements, or other therapeutic interventions to help address postpartum hair loss.
- Follow-up:
Your healthcare provider may schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan based on the severity of your hair loss.
Postpartum hair loss is temporary for most women, and hair typically regrows within a few months. Therefore, it is essential to follow these tips to support healthy hair growth and minimise the effects of shedding.
Postpartum hair loss is a temporary condition for most women. Hair typically regrows within a few months due to hormonal balance restoration. If hair loss persists beyond six months, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice and recommendations.
At HairSure, we are dedicated to a policy of offering unmatched services to our patients. At HairSure Advanced Hair Transplant Clinic, all of your hair-related worries can be expertly resolved, and you can rest assured that your smiles won’t flinch again. Enter HairSure and exit with the desired appearance.
HairSure can assist in determining the precise reason for hair loss and offer suitable treatment solutions that are suited to the requirements of the individual. Always consult a medical expert when you have questions about your health.
All your concerns regarding hair problems can be flawlessly sorted at HairSure Advanced Hair Transplant Clinic, guaranteeing that you will be left with smiles that won’t fall again. Walk into HairSure and walk back with the look that you desire. Call 040 42020202 / 9494020202 or email us at hairsure123@gmail.com to book your consultation. Visit our website, Hair Transplant Clinic, to know more.
