Welcome to motherhood! It’s a journey filled with joy, sleepless nights, and yes, unexpected surprises - postpartum hair loss. Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Here’s everything you need to know about why it happens, how to manage it, and most importantly, how to embrace this phase with confidence.
The Hormonal Rollercoaster
First things first, let’s talk hormones. During pregnancy, your estrogen levels skyrocket, prolonging the growth phase of your hair. This means your hair stays put, giving you that luscious, thick mane. But after giving birth, those hormone levels drop sharply, triggering more hair follicles to enter the resting phase, also known as the telogen phase. The result? Increased hair shedding.
When to expect it
Postpartum hair loss typically kicks in about two to four months after childbirth. You might start to notice more hair in your brush or clogging up the shower drain. It’s most intense around the four to six-month mark. But here’s the good news: it’s temporary. Most women find their hair returns to its normal growth cycle within six to twelve months.
Factors for Postpartum Hair Loss
- Not all moms will experience postpartum hair loss the same way.
- Genetics, overall health, and hormonal balance play a big role. While about 50% of women will notice increased shedding, the severity can range from mild to more noticeable thinning.
Managing Postpartum Hair Loss
So, what can you do? Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this phase:
1. Nourish from Within
- Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is key. Think biotin, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin C. Postnatal supplements can be a great way to ensure you’re getting what you need too.
- Incorporate TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) foods like black sesame, mulberries, kelp, walnuts, chestnuts, duck, winter melon, lotus root, red dates, longan, dark leafy greens, red meat and organ meat (chicken or pig's liver) to support hair health.
- Read more about the Top TCM herbs and food for hair loss
2. Gentle Hair Care
- Opt for mild shampoos to minimize breakage.
- Elevate your hair care ritual with the The Revitalizing Hair and Scalp Serum to help balance your scalp’s microbiome, fostering a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Consider traditional practices like using a scalp gua sha comb, which promotes blood circulation to the scalp.
3. Smart Styling
- During this time, avoid tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling, as they can exacerbate hair loss.
- Embrace gentle hairstyles that don’t strain your hair follicles and give your scalp a break.
Embrace the chaos
Postpartum hair loss can be unsettling, but remember, it’s a natural part of the postpartum journey. Approach this phase with kindness and patience. Celebrate your body for the incredible job it’s done bringing new life into the world.
Understanding postpartum hair loss and knowing how to manage it can help you feel more in control. This phase is temporary, and with the right care, your hair will bounce back. You’ve got this, mama!
At Jing Botanics, we’re here to support you through every stage of motherhood. Our products combine modern scalp care with TCM principles, offering a holistic approach to hair health. Remember, you’re not alone.
