"If during pregnancy you experienced luxurious flowing locks, there’s a slight (OK, major) chance you’re also going to deal with postpartum hair loss. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s a common annoyance people deal with during the months following birth. Don’t be too upset about it, the hair loss may seem never-ending, but it will eventually stop, and your hair will grow back.
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Hair loss is normal and is the result of a drop in the hormones that were previously surging during pregnancy. The same hormones that are responsible for your thick hair during pregnancy are the ones that drop after birth, thus resulting in hair loss.
Even knowing that it’s normal, it can be frustrating to deal with postpartum regrowth. Personally, I lived in hats and headbands for a solid six months as my hair grew in. The flyaways and wisps were out of control. There are other tactics you can turn to as you make your way through the regrowth.
Here are some ideas that can help with postpartum hair loss and may help with regrowth.
1. Give the heat a break
Hair may become more delicate during this time, and excessive heat can make the damage worse. This is a good time to take a break from your hairdryer and straightening iron to allow your hair some breathing room. Go for a natural look or a messy mom top knot as your hair recovers.
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2. Turn to supplements
There are supplements that are designed to help with postpartum hair loss. While it’s impossible to know if this will work for you, supplements containing biotin and collagen may help. If you are breastfeeding, speak with your doctor before adding a supplement to your routine.
3. Cut back on hair washing
This might happen naturally because you’re busy taking care of a newborn, but if you’re dealing with postpartum hair loss, think about washing your hair less frequently. The stress you’re putting on your hair during frequent scrubbing doesn’t help your hair loss situation.
4. Spend timing nourishing your hair
When you do wash your hair, really make it count. Use products that nourish your hair, like a hydrating and repairing hair mask. Every new mom deserves an extra 5-10 minutes in the shower, so ask your partner to hang out with the baby while you give yourself a mini at-home spa treatment.
5. Use gentle hair bands
Ditch the super tight styles and hair ties. Swap out your traditional hair elastics for more gentle options. Also, think about a looser ponytail or loose braids when styling your hair for the day.
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6. Consider your nutrition
Nutrition plays such an important role in your postpartum recovery and energy, and this even impacts your hair. According to Healthline, foods rich in iron, vitamin C, vitamin D, beta carotene, omega-3s, and magnesium can help improve hair health. Foods to keep in your kitchen include dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, carrots, eggs, and fish.
7. Stick with your prenatal or a postnatal vitamin
Along with proper nutrition, a good vitamin is also an important element to your wellness routine. Keep up with your prenatal vitamin, or switch to a postnatal specific vitamin, many of which include a formula to fight against postpartum hair loss.
8. Talk to a professional
If you’re really struggling with postpartum hair loss and it feels excessive and like it’s not getting better, reach out to your doctor. Sometimes this can indicate a bigger issue, so it’s worth investigating if you’re concerned.
Read More: The 5 Products That Helped Me Survive Postpartum Hair Loss