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

1. Healthy diet

A well-balanced diet is important to keep hair roots strong. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet. This will provide enough vitamins, minerals and many other nutrients which are needed to volumise and strengthen the hair. Also, consider foods that contain a high amount of antioxidants and flavonoids.

2. Prenatal vitamins

Vitamins (especially vitamin A) are important micronutrients that help in the normal hair follicle cycle and immune cell functions. As many women tend to stop their prenatal vitamins after delivery, it may contribute to hair fall. Therefore, it is recommended to continue taking prenatal vitamins for a few more months to prevent its deficiency and manage hair fall. [1]

3. Stress

After having a baby, women may face stress or anxieties due to factors such as extra household works, financial problems, official workload and many others. This may impact their hair growth and cause hair to fall. It is advised to unwind yourself by practising relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. This helps balance hormone levels and prevent hair fall. [2]

4. Stay hydrated

Severe dehydration can make hair thin, dry and brittle and cause hair fall. After having a baby, due to excess workload, women usually miss out on drinking enough water required by the body. This makes the scalp dry and causes hair fall. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Water is also important for the production of breast milk.

5. Home remedies

Home remedies have many purposes, especially in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. In a study carried out on 41 plants for the treatment of scalp and hair disorders, many were found effective. These plants mainly belong to the family of Apiaceae, Lamiaceae and Rosaceae. Other natural products included in the study were made of honey, fish oil, yoghurt, kerosene and mustard. [3]

6. Oil massage

Oil massage helps in boosting blood circulation to deep layers of the scalp, maintains the scalp moisture, reverse the damage by chemicals, strengthen roots and hence, promote hair growth. Use herbal oils like peppermint oil, lavender oil, thyme oil, bergamot oil, tea tree oil and jojoba oil. Also, opt for market-based shampoos and conditioners that consist of these oils or herbs. [4]

7. Personal care

Personal care for hair is equally important as other ways for healthy hair growth. Avoid hairstyles such as tight braids, cornrows, weaves or tight rollers that pull or stretch your hair. Avoid combing hair when wet or if it is necessary, remember to use a wide teethed comb. Select herbal shampoos and conditioners or those with mild chemicals.

8. Make hair short

Making hair short depends on the personal choice of women. However, shortening hair a few inches can help you manage them well and give proper care and treatments. Also, it may allow you to style faster while you are busy with your baby.

Common FAQs

1. How long does your hair fall out after having a baby?

Post-pregnancy hair fall is temporary. As the hormonal levels drop after having a baby and blood volume lowers, making changes occur in the body, including hair loss. However, they get back to normal within 3-6 months or a year.

2. Can you go bald from postpartum hair loss?

The answer is no. Total hair loss after pregnancy is rare. This is because multiple factors like genetics, medications, radiation, medical conditions, hairstyles and life trauma are responsible for hair loss, or a combination of these factors.

3. What vitamins help postpartum hair loss?

Vitamin A is considered vital to prevent hair loss post-pregnancy. This essential vitamin helps in strengthening hair roots and provide deep nourishment that helps in the growth of healthy hair.