The Perfect Solution for Postpartum Hair Loss
Posted by Santana Fell on 2024 Aug 20th
The journey of motherhood is one filled with joy, anticipation and unconditional love right from conception. Giving the gift of life to another human is no short of a miracle.
Amidst the whirlwind of emotions and idealizing the role of mothers, many fail to acknowledge the bittersweet struggles that come with it on a physical, mental and emotional level.
Common irreversible physical conditions and mental challenges caused by massive changes a woman’s body undergoes during pregnancy and childbirth are often overlooked and downplayed. From postpartum hair loss and postpartum depression to a woman’s whole world turning around overnight are unspoken realities that need not be vocalized.
Among the many changes that take place postpartum, hair loss is one significant factor of concern that aids in postpartum depression but can be fixed with a few tips and tricks.
What is postpartum hair loss?
Many new mothers observe severe hair loss after childbirth. This sudden shedding and loss of hair after delivering a baby is called postpartum hair loss. It doesn't generally occur immediately after birth but takes a couple of weeks or months post-delivery.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, an average of 40-50% of women will experience postpartum hair loss. These women shed about 400 strands per day, which is quite an alarming number to deal with.
What causes postpartum hair loss?
Pregnancy hormonal changes play a significant role in postpartum hair loss. During pregnancy, elevated hormone levels, particularly estrogen, prolong the hair's growth, resulting in thicker, more luscious locks. However, after childbirth, as hormone levels recalibrate, the hair compensates by shedding. This typically occurs around three months postpartum and lasts about a year, varying from person to person.
How does postpartum hair loss aid in postpartum depression?
While postpartum hair loss is a natural process for many women, it doesn't make it any less distressing. Dealing with an entirely dependent tiny human and the changes and adjustments that come after having a baby can trigger some mums who feel overwhelmed with their new way of life.
Those mothers already suffering from uncontrollable postpartum depression find it almost impossible to navigate hair loss, causing further self-worth issues and increasing their depression and anxiety.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
Postpartum hair loss begins around 3-4 months after delivery and generally lasts about a year. As hormones stabilize, hair loss stabilizes, too.
Is postpartum hair loss permanent?
No, the good news is that postpartum hair loss is temporary. After about one year of childbirth, hair shedding reduces and is replaced by new hair growth, which will eventually return to pre-pregnancy levels.
Can postpartum hair loss be prevented?
Postpartum hair loss is entirely out of your control, but you can always practice damage control. Eating healthy, exercising, reducing stress, opting for a mild shampoo and a nourishing conditioner to support your hair and scalp health, avoiding heat styling, and not wearing tight hairstyles are some ways to reduce hair loss.
Tips for Coping with Postpartum Hair Loss and Promoting Regrowth
While dealing with hair loss involves mental strength, effective products can assist in controlling and easing this process, encouraging the growth of healthier, stronger hair.
Eat healthy: A nutrient-rich diet is foundational. Focus on incorporating a variety of proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats into your meals. Nutrients particularly beneficial for hair health include iron, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin. Considering post-partum nutritional supplements can also be wise, but always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Supplements: To manage postpartum hair loss effectively, incorporating multivitamin tablets, Maca, collagen, and zinc supplements into your diet can be beneficial. Multivitamin tablets provide essential vitamins and nutrients to prevent deficiencies that could lead to hair loss. Maca, a versatile supplement known for balancing hormones, can alleviate hormone-related discomfort and reduce hair loss. Collagen supports hair strength by enhancing the proteins in hair and the skin around hair follicles, leading to healthier, thicker hair. Zinc, crucial for hair growth, should be included in your routine, especially if it's not already part of your multivitamin intake.
Rosemary oil: Start using hair growth-enhancing natural oils like rosemary oil. Additionally, you can use minoxidil but do so with a doctor’s advice as it may affect breastfeeding. Remember, consistency is key. These products require several weeks or months of regular application before noticeable results appear.
Hairpieces for women: Women’s hairpieces are the best for instant volume and coverage, concealing hair loss like a pro. Human hair topper for women are ideal for smaller or specific areas of hair loss. They can conceal bald or thinning regions while blending with one’s natural hair to provide a seamless, realistic appearance.
Women's wigs are more suitable for severe hair loss. They have a glueless full cap base that covers the entire scalp and can be attached without needing tape or liquid adhesives.
Amanda, one of Superhairpieces’ many satisfied customers, used both toppers and human hair wigs to combat postpartum hair loss. She loves to wear wigs not only to get a full head of hair again but also because of two benefits — the fact that the results are instant and you can attach them in a matter of minutes without spending too much time. "A wig is pretty much instant,” Amanda said. “You can achieve pretty much whatever style you want with a wig and [snaps fingers] just like that. If you're a busy mom, you can just snap on a wig and not have to spend a ton of time and effort.” More than anything, hairpieces helped Amanda get out of a dark place.
Watch her story here:
The postpartum period is intensely transformative for your hair and your entire being. Being gentle with yourself, embracing support from loved ones, and finding moments for self-care amidst the new routines can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and, consequently, the health of your hair. When embracing these strategies, remember you're not alone in this journey. Countless new mothers navigate the challenge of postpartum hair loss, which can be significantly improved with the right approach. It’s all about fostering patience and nurturing yourself and your hair back to health.
If you or anybody you know is facing hair loss, Superhairpieces has your back! Our high-quality human hairpieces are precisely what you need to regain your confidence and self-image. Let's join hands through your postpartum challenges and emerge victorious.