Postpartum Hair Loss
Postpartum hair loss is absolutely normal, and should be expected. Your hair, skin and nails all become stronger and healthier during pregnancy due to the hormones in your body. This often means that your hair may become thicker and longer than what you’re used to. However, 6-12 months after pregnancy, you may notice changes in hair texture and density. This can mean that your previously straight hair now has a wave to it or you’re noticing a lot more hair in the drain than before. Every body and every pregnancy can be different.
There are some steps you can take to help you get through this frustrating time.
1) Supplements like biotin or vitamins that promote healthy hair, skin, and nails will help. Make sure to speak with your doctor before ingesting anything (especially if you’re breastfeeding). Since healthy hair during pregnancy was due to changes inside of your body, using vitamins to promote growth from the inside will help.
2) Trimming your hair every 3 or so months will help maintain the health of your hair. Keeping your ends clean and even will prevent future breakage, and make it look fuller and thicker. Mention any problem areas to your stylist, as there may be specific styles you can wear in the meantime.
3) When you notice the new growth coming in, you can reduce the frizz and fly always by spraying hairspray on to a thick bristles brush and brush the hairs down. If you notice a lot of new growth in the temple areas, ask your stylist about side swept or straight across bangs.
4) Using a high quality shampoo regularly, as well as a cleansing or chelating shampoo once every week or two, can help keep your follicles and scalp clean from free radicals that could block new growth.
5) If you notice that the new growth has a different texture that before pregnancy, sitting down for a consultation with a stylist can be very beneficial. They will be able to teach you new techniques to dealing with the new texture.
6) Use products and treatments at home that are meant to help retain thickness and length. Thickening products (such as the Redken High Rise line) and strength and length builders (Redken Extreme Mega Mask and Redken Extreme Lengths) can also be beneficial.