If you’re about to celebrate your first Mother’s Day but have noticed some hair loss since having your baby, you’re not alone. Postpartum hair loss is very common in new mothers. This is typically because when you’re pregnant, your hormones stop you from shedding hair like you normally would. Then when you give birth and your estrogen suddenly drops, your hair resumes shedding again, often at a faster rate than you’re used to. Here’s what else you should know about postpartum hair loss.
The Hair Loss Is Temporary
Don’t let postpartum hair loss worry you too much, as it’s temporary! In fact, it usually peaks about three to six months after you give birth, at which point you should stop seeing so much hair loss. If you’re still losing more hair than usual once your baby has turned one, that’s when you should consider talking to your doctor about possible treatment options.
Your Hair Type May Affect How Much Hair You Lose
The amount of hair you lose may depend on the type and color it is. In general, if your hair is fine, you’ll likely lose more of it than mothers with thicker hair. And if it’s lighter in color, you might lose more than mothers who have darker hair.
Being Gentle With Your Hair Can Help
While you can’t stop hair loss, you may be able to reduce it by avoiding styling your hair too much during pregnancy and in the months following birth. After all, using a curling wand, straightener, or blow dryer can make your hair look thinner. And brushing your hair too hard or putting hair accessories in—such as clips and hair bands—can make more fall out, so try to minimize these habits until you’re no longer losing hair.
Good Nutrition Can Help Reduce Hair Loss
Another way to mitigate postpartum hair loss is to eat right and keep taking your prenatal vitamins after you give birth. Certain vitamins and minerals are great for hair health. Eat more leafy greens to get vitamin C and iron, as well as carrots and sweet potatoes for beta carotene. Your hair will also benefit from the vitamin D in eggs and fatty fish and the vitamin E in almonds, spinach, and avocado.
In short, postpartum hair loss is nothing to be ashamed about, as it should resolve on its own within six months of birth in most cases. If you’re concerned about how long it’s been going on or how much hair you’ve lost, schedule a free hair loss consultation at Custom Hair Tampa Bay, by clicking here.
In the meantime, make it a point to perform self-care whenever you can, especially as Mother’s Day approaches!
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