You did it—you brought a tiny human into the world (gold star for you!), but now your once-glorious hair seems to be jumping ship.
Clumps in the shower? Strands all over your pillow? Hair clinging to your baby’s onesie? It’s enough to make you scream, “What’s happening to me?!”
Here’s the deal: post-pregnancy hair loss (known as postpartum hair loss) is totally normal. It happens to about half of all new moms, usually kicking in around three to four months after delivery.
Sure, it feels like you’re shedding enough to knit a small sweater, but this is just your body hitting the reset button. Deep breath—you’re not going bald, promise.
Oh, and when your hair starts growing back, don’t be surprised if it comes with a plot twist. Straight strands might wave, tight curls could loosen—it’s all part of the postpartum hair rollercoaster.
So, let’s talk about it. In this post, we’ll figure out why your hair is staging a protest, what to expect in the coming months, and some easy, practical ways to manage it. You’ve got this!
Postpartum Hair Loss: Why Your Hair’s Freaking Out
If your hair suddenly starts falling out around three months after giving birth, don’t panic—you’re not alone. By month four, the shedding often peaks, with up to 200 strands saying goodbye every day. Sound familiar? Deep breath—you’ve got this.
Here’s the good news: it’s temporary. Most women see things calm down and hair loss tapering off between six and twelve months postpartum. Phew, right?
So, why is your hair staging this mass exodus? Let’s break it down so you know exactly what’s happening—and how to handle it like a pro.
Blame It on Shifting Hormone Levels
Let’s talk hair science (don’t worry, it’s quick!). According to the National Library of Medicine, every strand of hair on your head goes through three main stages—anagen (growth), catagen (pause), and telogen (shedding)—whether or not you are pregnant:
- In the anagen phase, your hair is thriving—growing longer and fuller every day.
- The catagen phase is basically a coffee break for your hair—it pauses growing but doesn’t shed.
- And finally, the telogen phase is when your hair says, “That’s enough!” and falls out to make space for new strands.
According to the American Institute if Dermatology, your hormones (looking at you, estrogen!) pull off a magic trick during pregnancy. They keep your hair in the growth phase way longer than usual. Less shedding, more growing—it’s why your locks feel thicker, fuller, and totally goddess-like.
But then baby arrives, and the hormone party ends. Estrogen levels nosedive, and suddenly, all those strands that stayed in the growing phase move into shedding mode at once.
Normally, about 10–15% of your hair is shedding at any time. The postpartum period after a new baby? That number jumps to 30% or more. Your hair is basically saying, “Time to catch up!”
It might feel like you’re losing all your hair, but here’s the truth: you’re just shedding the strands you would’ve lost over the last nine months. It’s not forever, I promise.
Postpartum hair loss usually peaks around 3–4 months, but once this telogen phase wraps up, your hair follicles shift back into growth mode. Those tiny baby hairs sprouting along your hairline? They’re proof your hair is bouncing back.
By 6–12 months, most women see their hair return to its new normal. So hang in there—you’re not losing your crown, just going through a phase. Your hair’s comeback is already in the works!
Stress Isn’t Helping
Let’s be real—life with a newborn is pure chaos. Sleepless nights, nonstop feedings, and the pressure to “do it all” can leave you running on fumes. And guess what? Your hair feels the stress as well.
When stress hits, your body kicks even more hair into the shedding phase—a condition called postpartum telogen effluvium.
Research shows that high cortisol (a.k.a. the stress hormone) further messes with your scalp by cutting off blood circulation to your hair follicles. The result? Shedding lasts longer, and regrowth takes its sweet time.
So, what’s the game plan? Start with small wins. Take a minute to breathe deeply, sip on a soothing cup of tea, or sneak in a quick mindfulness moment. These little rituals help calm your body and give your hair the boost it needs to get back on track.
Feed Your Body, Fuel Your Hair
Your hair thrives when your body gets the nutrients it needs—but pregnancy and breastfeeding can drain your reserves. Deficiencies in essentials like iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D can leave your hair struggling to keep up.
The good news? Once you’re back to a healthy diet, your hair will follow suit, returning to its usual texture and growth. The better you nourish your body, the faster your hair will bounce back.
Why Does Hair Look Different Post-Baby?
Noticing your hair feels finer, coarser, or has a completely different texture after giving birth? You’re not imagining it—and you’re definitely not alone. These changes are all part of your hair’s natural regrowth process.
Here’s the deal: after you give birth, your hormones do a major reset. These hormonal changes directly affect your hair follicles, which can lead to changes in texture, curl pattern, and thickness.
That’s why your regrowth might feel softer, curlier, straighter, or even coarser than before.
It’s not your old strands “transforming.” It’s brand-new hair growing in with a fresh start, responding to your body’s new balance.
But this is temporary! Most women notice their hair settles into a “new normal” within six months to a year. Think of it as your hair’s way of turning the page—it’s a fresh start for those locks.
Take Charge of Postpartum Hair Loss: Simple Steps for Healthy, Happy Hair
Dealing with postpartum hair loss can feel like one more thing on your already overflowing plate—but you’ve got this!
The best news? There are simple, effective ways to manage it and give your hair the love it needs to bounce back.
Exfoliate Your Scalp Like a Pro
Your scalp deserves a deep clean! Exfoliating shampoos and scalp scrubs clear away buildup, dead skin, and excess oil to create a healthy foundation for hair growth.
Use them sparingly—just 1–2 times a month is plenty to avoid over-drying your scalp. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner to lock in moisture and keep your hair happy.
Delicious Locks: Eat Your Way to Healthier Hair
We’ve all heard the broad-stroke “eat a balanced diet” advice. Let’s break it down with specifics that actually help your hair (and overall health):
Protein with a Purpose: Aim for lean proteins (like turkey, tofu, and salmon), but also ensure you get enough L-lysine (found in legumes, spirulina, and lean meats) for optimal hair-building.
Omega-3 Magic: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are loaded with Omega-3 fats, which may help reduce dryness and scalp irritation. Don’t do fish? Chia seeds, hemp seeds, and algae-based supplements can also do the trick.
Minerals to the Rescue: Iron, zinc, and selenium are critical for hair health. Dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, and Brazil nuts are small changes you can incorporate easily.
Daily Postnatal Vitamins: If you’re breastfeeding (or even if you’re not), postnatal vitamins are formulated with the nutrients you need at this stage, which can also support healthy hair regrowth.
Bonus: Don’t neglect good ol’ hydration. Hair (and scalp) dryness can give the impression of even more shedding. Keeping your water intake up helps maintain overall scalp health.
Pamper Your Scalp with Oils
Scalp oils aren’t just luxurious for new mothers—they’re powerful! Oils like castor, rosemary, and coconut nourish your scalp, fight dryness, and promote regrowth.
Massage a small amount into your scalp once or twice a week, leave it on for 30 minutes (or overnight if possible), and rinse it out with a gentle shampoo. This simple ritual can leave your scalp feeling refreshed and your hair looking healthier.
Try “Scalp Napping”
Tight ponytails and buns might be your go-to, but they put too much stress on your scalp. Loosen up and let your scalp “nap”!
Take a moment to release your hairstyle, gently shake out your strands, and give your scalp a quick massage in small circles.
This reduces tension, boosts blood flow, and gives your follicles the TLC they need to grow healthier hair. Just 2–5 minutes a day with your fingertips (or a scalp massager) can make a big difference.
Ditch Harsh Products
Postpartum scalps can be extra sensitive, so swap harsh shampoos and heavy styling products for gentler options.
Choose sulfate-free shampoos and lightweight conditioners with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or argan oil. These keep your scalp calm, moisturized, and free from irritation.
And give the heat tools a break—your hair will thank you!
Supercharge Regrowth with Hair Supplements
Want to help your hair bounce back faster? Hair supplements are your new best friend! Packed with all the nutrients your hair craves, they fill in the gaps that come with the whirlwind of new mom life.
Let’s talk about some professional favorites for postpartum women:
Nutrafol Postpartum: Designed just for new moms, this supplement is packed with goodies like ashwagandha to fight stress, marine collagen to strengthen your hair, and biotin to boost growth.
Viviscal: A go-to for thinning hair, this supplement features a unique AminoMar marine complex plus biotin, zinc, and iron to help nourish your scalp and promote thicker, stronger strands.
Hair Strong by HUM: These gummies are packed with biotin, folic acid, zinc, and PABA to improve strength and texture while encouraging regrowth. They’re as effective as they are fun to take!
SugarBearHair: Another gummy favorite, these are loaded with biotin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E to keep your hair healthy and shiny. Perfect for busy moms who prefer a chewable option.
Pro Tip: Before starting a supplement, check with your doctor—especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Try Low-Level Laser Therapy
Yes, laser therapy at home is a thing! Research proves that low-level laser brushes or caps use painless red light to stimulate your hair follicles. They improve blood flow and nudge dormant follicles back into the growth phase.
While it’s not an overnight miracle, consistent use—just 10–15 minutes a few times a week—can help reduce shedding and speed up regrowth. It’s an easy way to supercharge your postpartum hair care routine.
Styling Tips: Fake It ‘Til You Make It
Postpartum hair can be tricky—noticeable hair loss, thinning spots, uneven regrowth, and those tiny “baby bangs” seem to have a mind of their own. But don’t worry! With the right styling hacks, you can work with your hair, not against it.
Embrace the Headband
Keep it chic with a padded or knotted headband to disguise sparse areas around your hairline. They also hold back any stray baby hairs (the short new hairs that love to stick straight up).
Bonus: it doubles as a fix for those “I didn’t have time to wash my hair” days.
Go for Texturizing Products
Sea salt or sugar sprays add gritty volume, giving the illusion of thicker hair. For a quick root boost, apply a volumizing mousse at the crown and blow-dry with your head flipped upside down.
Just remember to clarify your scalp afterward so that no product buildup slows down new growth.
Flattering Cut
If you have time for a quick salon trip, tell your stylist you’re experiencing postpartum shedding—they’ll likely have some great tricks up their sleeve.
My stylist’s recommendation? Ask for “invisible layers” or “graduated layers” around the face. This can add volume and shape to thinning hair.
Quick Hair Check: Is It Normal Post Partum Shedding or Something Else?
If you’re shedding excessively or notice abnormal scalp itching or patches of hair loss, try this quick “pull test.”
Gently tug a small section of clean, dry hair. Losing 2–3 strands is normal. But if you’re pulling out handfuls, consult a trichologist to confirm it’s postpartum shedding and rule out health issues like a thyroid disorder.
Finally, remember that you grew and delivered a tiny human! Your body is recalibrating from a massive physical and hormonal event, and your hair is simply starting a brand-new chapter—just like you and your little one.
FAQs
These are the most frequently asked questions about postpartum hair loss. Have one of your own? Drop it in the comments below, and we will get back to you ASAP.
What are the effective treatments for postpartum hair loss?
While postpartum hair loss is a common concern after pregnancy and childbirth, there are ways to manage it. Focus on a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Gentle hair care practices, such as scalp massages and avoiding tight hairstyles, can also help.
How soon after delivery can postpartum hair loss start?
Postpartum hair loss typically begins around 2-4 months post-delivery. This coincides with shifts in pregnancy hormones as your body adjusts to life as a new mother. It’s important to note that the onset can vary from woman to woman. Some may notice changes earlier, while others may experience it later.
Is it normal to experience hair loss a year after giving birth?
While most women experience postpartum hair loss within the first six months after delivery, some cases can last longer. The duration can extend from six months to a year, depending on how each woman’s body adjusts.
If you’re still experiencing significant hair loss after a year, it’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. They can rule out other potential causes of hair loss.
What home remedies can help reduce excessive shedding post-delivery?
There are several home remedies that may help reduce postpartum hair loss. Gentle scalp massages can stimulate blood flow to hair follicles. Using natural oils like coconut or almond oil may also nourish the scalp.
A protein, iron, and vitamin-rich diet can support healthy hair growth. Staying hydrated and managing stress through relaxation techniques may also improve hair health.
Do you suffer from post-pregnancy hair loss? What’s your go-to solution?
Anubha Charan is a powerhouse in the luxury beauty industry, with over 15 years of expertise shaping the global beauty narrative. As the former Beauty Director at Marie Claire, she worked with the magazine's French headquarters to craft cutting-edge beauty content for international audiences.
Anubha's bylines have appeared in some of the world’s most prestigious publications, including Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Travel + Leisure, WebMD, and Architectural Digest. She is also the co-author of Paris Bath & Beauty, a Simon & Schuster book on French beauty rituals.
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