If your ponytail suddenly seems alarmingly thin or you've noticed large clumps of hair clogging the shower drain and you've recently given birth, you could be experiencing postpartum hair loss.
While donning thick, lustrous, shampoo commercial-worthy hair is a perk of pregnancy for many women, that can suddenly change several months after delivery.
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Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum 'telogen effluvium' or 'postpartum alopecia', is a condition that causes hair shedding after giving birth. Sure, discovering excessive hair clinging to your brush or on your pillow can be shocking and distressing, but rest assured you're not alone mama!
Here's everything you need to know about postpartum shedding and what can be done about it.
Is it normal to start losing your hair after giving birth?
Yes! Don't pull your hair out about losing locks. Postpartum shedding is a perfectly natural and common condition. And, thankfully, it's only temporary. Postpartum hair loss typically begins three to four months after your baby's arrival, and it's a sign that your hair is returning to its regular, pre-pregnancy state. You may notice thinning hair, a hair line that appears to be receding or patchy spots on the crown and around the temples.
According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, the average person loses anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day. For many women after childbirth, that number climbs significantly, although postpartum shedding is not considered 'true hair loss'. The amount of hair loss varies, ranging from relatively minor to severe. In a recent interview, global pop sensation and Fenty Beauty mogul Rihanna shared her experiences with hair loss following pregnancy. The multi-platinum artist and mom of two boys said she was surprised to lose patches of hair in waves after giving birth, a side effect she stressed was 'not on the pamphlet.'
What is postpartum hair loss and why is it happening?
Blame the condition on a powerful hormonal shift in your body. When your baby's on board, a spike in estrogen prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle, and fewer hairs fall out, often resulting in a noticeably lush, full-bodied mane. After delivery, these powerful hormones rapidly decline, and more hair follicles enter the resting phase before shedding, usually a few months later.
If you're breastfeeding, you might not notice any significant change to your hair until after you've started weaning your little one.
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
Post-pregnancy hair loss can last up to six months before it starts to taper off, although everyone is different. In most cases, hair returns to its pre-pregnancy fullness by your baby's first birthday, and usually sooner.
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What can I do to keep my hair as healthy as possible?
From brain fog and sleep deprivation to physically recuperating from childbirth and adjusting to life with a new baby, as if new moms don't have enough on their plates without having to deal with postpartum hair loss. While hair loss isn't cause for concern, it can have a negative impact on self-esteem and cause additional stress and anxiety.
While there's no way to eliminate post-pregnancy shedding entirely, the good news is you can take steps to protect — and strengthen — your tresses.
For starters, skip chemical hair treatments (highlights, hair dye, perms and straightening) and minimize potentially damaging thermal styling tools to avoid breakage. When blow drying your hair, use a low heat setting.
Invest in a gentle hairbrush and silky hair ties or scrunchies to reduce pulling.
Choose a volumizing shampoo to give your hair body for a thicker, fuller appearance, and a light conditioner so hair doesn't get weighed down. More relaxed hairstyles such as a long ponytail or a loose bun can help reduce pulling and breakage.
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Although new motherhood doesn't leave a lot of spare time for full meal prep, choosing wholesome, nutrient-rich foods is essential. A well-balanced diet not only benefits overall health and provides new moms with much-needed energy, but it may help reduce hair loss, too.
Ask your health care practitioner about adding postpartum hair loss vitamins to your daily healthcare routine.
What if my hair loss continues?
If excessive post-delivery hair shedding doesn't subside, speak to your doctor and consider booking an appointment with a dermatologist to rule out other causes. Keep track of any other symptoms you are experiencing. Keep in mind, stress, poor nutrition, vitamin deficiency, thyroid disorders, and many other medical conditions, can contribute to hair loss.
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