Back to results

Coping with Postpartum Hair Loss

Share

Postpartum hair loss is the sudden shedding of the hair, sometimes in large amounts. This usually occurs within six months of giving birth.

Pregnant woman sitting on the floor looking down towards her belly

We caught up with trichologist Demi Griffiths of Midlands Trichology to get to the root issue of postpartum hair loss and some tips for dealing with it…

On average, we lose around 100 hairs a day which is perfectly normal. With postpartum hair loss you see more hairs shedding than normal due to a condition called Telogen effluvium. Postpartum telogen effluvium can be caused by a change in hormones, dietry influences and low nutrient levels, particularly iron in ladies that have given birth. When you are pregnant, a rise in oestrogen can mean that hair looks much healthier and thicker. But, when hormone levels start to reduce back to normal, that can induce some shedding.

How long does postpartum hair loss last?

The one thing you don’t need to worry about is that postpartum hair loss is not permanent. In most cases postpartum hair loss usually corrects itself within a year and your locks should be back to their pre-pregnancy health.

Tips for dealing with postpartum hair loss

  • Eat well and get the right nutrients into your body. Diet has a huge impact on the hair growth cycle.
  • Treat the hair with care using a detangling comb/brush, and try not to tie the hair up in tight hairstyles or bands, which will put tension on the hair leading to breakage. It's also beneficial to limit heat appliances and use good products, particularly a good conditioner, to keep the hair hydrated.
  • Take a break from harsh chemically based treatments if you can, particularly bleach. If you are continuing with hair colouring talk to your hairdresser to make them aware of any issues. They may be able to use a kinder colour and/or just apply the colour to the root area so not to over colour through the mid-lengths and ends of the hair.

If you are concerned about any hair loss it is important to talk to a professional trichologist so they can help you determine the exact cause and check nutrient levels.