Postpartum Hair Loss: How To Deal With Post-Pregnancy Hair Loss

Pregnancy brings with it a whole set of physical and mental issues and some of the problems do not cease even after the baby has been successfully delivered. Hair loss is one such problem; many women have to deal with post-pregnancy Hair Loss.  

What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?

Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum alopecia, is a common phenomenon experienced by many women after childbirth. During pregnancy, increased estrogen levels prolong the hair's growth phase, resulting in thicker and fuller hair. However, after giving birth, hormonal fluctuations occur, leading to a sudden drop in estrogen levels. This hormonal shift triggers a phase called telogen effluvium, where a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase simultaneously. As a result, new hair growth is temporarily inhibited, and excessive hair shedding occurs, typically around 2 to 4 months after childbirth.

Fortunately, postpartum hair loss is usually temporary and resolves on its own within 6 to 12 months after delivery, as hormone levels stabilize and the hair growth cycle returns to normal. Hair loss decreases at the time of pregnancy because of the increased levels of estrogen and higher blood volume and circulation. However, after pregnancy, the hormone levels drop, and this leads to a rise in hair fall. The hormones force the hairs that are in the growing phase to enter the resting phase suddenly. You lose a lot more than the 100 hairs that you are supposed to lose. The total amount of hair loss might not be as much as you might have lost across the nine months of pregnancy, but since the hair fall is happening all at once, it appears to be more than usual. The period of postpartum hair loss might extend to a year after pregnancy and is at its maximum 4 months after delivery. However, postpartum hair fall after 1 year is not common, and if you are experiencing the same, you might be suffering from other hair problems. So, there is no real cause for concern if you are losing hair rapidly during this time.

15 Home Remedies to Stop Postpartum Hair Loss Naturally

1. Avoid heating tools 

Heat styling tools like curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers can cause significant damage to hair. The high temperatures can weaken the hair shaft, leading to breakage and hair loss. To avoid damaging your hair, it is recommended to limit the use of heat styling tools and opt for air-drying your hair instead. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.

2. Brush gently

Using a brush or comb with hard bristles can cause damage to the hair, leading to breakage and hair loss. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to gently detangle your hair. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, being careful not to pull or tug on the hair.

3. Proper dieting

A healthy diet is essential for overall health and can also promote healthy hair growth. Eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can provide the nutrients that your hair needs to grow strong and healthy. Foods like eggs, leafy greens, and lean meats are rich in protein and can promote hair health.

4. Use flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy hair growth. These fatty acids help to nourish the hair and promote growth. You can apply flaxseed oil topically to your hair or consume it orally as a supplement to promote healthy hair growth.

5. Protein treatment at home

Protein is essential for healthy hair growth, as it helps to strengthen the hair and reduce breakage. You can create a protein-rich hair mask at home using ingredients like yogurt, eggs, or mayonnaise. Apply the mask to your hair and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off to promote healthy hair growth.

6. Use volumizing shampoos

Shampoos that add volume to your hair can create an illusion of fuller hair while you wait for the shedding to subside. Look for volumizing shampoos that are gentle on your hair and scalp and do not contain harsh chemicals that can damage your hair.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy that can promote healthy hair growth. It contains enzymes that help to promote hair growth and soothe the scalp. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to your scalp and hair and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off to promote healthy hair growth.

8. Coconut milk

Coconut milk is rich in proteins and essential fats that can nourish the hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. Massage coconut milk into your scalp and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off to promote healthy hair growth.

9. Bhringraj

Bhringraj oil or powder can be used to massage the scalp. Bhringraj is an Ayurvedic herb that is believed to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair fall. Bhringraj oil or powder can be used to massage the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

10. Get proper sleep

Getting sufficient rest is essential for overall health and can also promote healthy hair growth. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to promote healthy hair growth.

11. Manage stress

Stress can have a significant impact on hair health and can exacerbate hair loss. Practice stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce its impact on your hair health and promote healthy hair growth.

12. Add fruits to your diet

Fruits are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants that are essential for healthy hair growth. Berries, citrus fruits, and melons are particularly rich in these nutrients and can help support healthy hair growth.

13. Nuts

Nuts are a great source of nutrients that are essential for healthy hair growth. Almonds, walnuts, and cashews are particularly rich in biotin, vitamin E, and zinc, which can help promote healthy hair growth.

4. Fish and other sea-foods

Fish and other seafood are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy hair growth. Fish like salmon and mackerel are particularly rich in these fatty acids and can help nourish the scalp and support healthy hair growth.

15. Veggies 

Vegetables are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth. Spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes are particularly rich in these nutrients and can help support healthy hair growth.

Medical Treatments for Postpartum Hair Loss

If home remedies do not yield results for you, it is suggested to consult a healthcare professional or a doctor. There are no treatments as such against postpartum hair growth, since it is a temporary condition. Although consulting with professionals may help you significantly reduce the extent of problem and help in faster hair recovery and hair growth. This will help you with better results, since your journey for better hair health & faster hair recovery will be well curated according to your body’s requirements as well. 

Hair Growth Products to Stop Postpartum Hair Loss

Postpartum Hair being a temporary phase, there are not a lot of cures & treatments. Although Hair Growth Products such as Vitamin Supplements & Hair Protection Shampoos and more. You can check out Traya’s Mom Santulan Tablets for Hair Vitamins & Hair Ras that you can include alongside your diet. These will nourish your hair internally & provide necessary nutrients. Similarly, you can also opt for the Defence Shampoo for better protection & stronger hair. 

Hair Fall Shampoo

When looking for a shampoo to help with postpartum hair loss, there are a few key ingredients to look for. These include:

• Biotin: Biotin is a B-vitamin that is essential for healthy hair growth. It helps to strengthen hair strands and prevent breakage.
• Keratin: Keratin is a protein that is found naturally in hair. Using a shampoo that contains keratin can help to strengthen hair and prevent further hair loss.
• Niacin: Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, helps to improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote healthy hair growth.
• Argan oil: Argan oil is a natural oil that is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It can help to nourish and hydrate the hair, promoting healthy growth.

Vitamin Supplements

Postpartum hair loss can be distressing for many new mothers, but there are several vitamin supplements that can help nourish and support healthy hair growth. Here are some of the best vitamins to consider for postpartum hair loss:

• Biotin: Biotin is a B-vitamin that is essential for healthy hair growth. It helps to strengthen hair strands and prevent breakage. Taking a biotin supplement can help to promote healthy hair growth and reduce postpartum hair loss.
• Iron: Iron is an essential mineral that helps to transport oxygen to the hair follicles. Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women. Taking an iron supplement can help to support healthy hair growth and prevent further hair loss.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for many bodily functions, including healthy hair growth. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to hair loss, so taking a vitamin D supplement may help to prevent or reduce postpartum hair loss.
• Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to promote healthy circulation and cell growth. It can help to nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are important for overall health, including healthy hair growth. They help to reduce inflammation and support healthy circulation to the scalp. Taking an omega-3 supplement, such as fish oil, can help to promote healthy hair growth.

It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are breastfeeding. They can help you determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that the supplements will not interact with any medications you may be taking.

Takeaway

Postpartum hair loss is quite common and you need not be unduly concerned if the hair loss extends from 6 months to a year after pregnancy. But if you experience postpartum hair loss after 1 year, you might require medical attention. If you are yet concerned you can approach us at Traya, but before that do remember to take the Traya hair test as that will help us lead you to a quicker resolution of your hair issues.

FAQ

Q2 - What vitamins help postpartum hair loss?

Ans - Vitamins that support postpartum hair loss recovery include biotin, vitamin D, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. You can include foods rich with these in your diet or even take supplementation for the same. 

Q3 - Which oil is best for hair after delivery?

Ans - Flaxseed oil, Coconut oil, and Bhringraj oil are beneficial for hair after delivery. They nourish the scalp, promote hair growth, and reduce hair fall.

Q4 - Which shampoo is best after delivery?