One of the most frustrating parts of postpartum life is losing all of that beautiful pregnancy hair growth. You finally sneak a shower in and when you wash your hair, you start pulling chunks of hair out. NOOOO!!!!
So what causes this postpartum hair loss? Is it normal? What can you do about it? And what about all those short new hairs growing in.
THE CAUSE:
Hair has natural growth and rest cycles. Normally, about 85-95% of your hair is in the growth cycle while the remaining hair is in a rest cycle. But during pregnancy, hormonal changes cause more than the normal amount of hair to be in a growth cycle, which is why many woman enjoy thicker and faster growing hair during that time.
During the postpartum period in your life, hormones change again and this time more than the normal amount of hair is in the rest cycle. A rest phase is followed by hair shedding and then regrowth, so new mothers experience greater hair loss than normal starting around 3 month postpartum.
Don't worry, you're not going bald. Your body is just getting back to normal. It's temporary and your hair should be back to normal in 12 months.
THE SOLUTION:
1- Take your Vitamins:
Vitamins B, C, E, zinc and selenium are all nutrients you need for healthy skin, hair and nails, so don’t stop taking vitamins after you give birth.
2- Be Gentle:
Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner. Shampoo only when necessary and use a wide-toothed comb to minimize tangling. Avoid rubber bands and try a scruchie instead.
3- Eat Well
You are what you eat. The antioxidants and flavonoids found in fruits and veggies promote hair growth. Iron and protein-rich foods have been shown to counteract hair loss.
Hi! i wanted to share i made some good changes to my diet that helped and being my second pregnancy i was desperate to not experience the amount of shedding I had my first pregnancy. i ended up starting a postpartum hair vitamin from baby blues (www.babyblues.care) it has helped slow down the shedding and i’m back to the growth phase .. also while being on it for about 3 months my hair no longer has that dry easily breaking feeling. just wanted to share another tip!