5 Tips You Can Use To Get Through Postpartum Hair Loss

During pregnancy, you may have been thrilled with your thick and lustrous mane of hair. But then once you have your baby you’re alarmed, even shocked, to find that your hair seems to be falling out. No, you’re not going bald. This is a temporary phase.

In the normal cycle of hair growth, some hair is lost every day. But during pregnancy, the increased levels of estrogen in your body freezes hair in the growing (or “resting”) phase of the cycle. Hair that would normally fall out stays put, resulting in thicker hair. After you give birth and your estrogen levels decline, however, all that hair that was resting starts to fall out.

This usually starts the third or fourth postpartum and ends by six months. But some women say it can last for a year. This temporary hair loss doesn’t mean you’re deficient in nutrition or vitamins*, it’s simply hormonal.

Here are some tips to keep your hair looking good during this transition:

1. Get a new cut.

First and foremost, pay a visit to a stylist for professional advice. It may be time to get a different hairstyle that will incorporate those fine hairs in the front.

If you previously had long hair or a layered cut with pieces that came down to the chin in the front, you may need to shorten that hair into long bangs that frame the face.

It’s a good idea to go shorter in the front. Sexy, short-in-the-middle, longer-at-the-sides or even bangs. Layering your hair all over will also give you more fullness.

2. Keep hair Moisturized

Always use a conditioner or a leave-in hair moisturizer after shampooing.

3. Try color

Coloring your hair is always a great way to give it body. If you feel that your hairline is receding and you have dark hair, highlighting the front can act as a camouflage. Or try glossing, a treatment that gives hair all-over shine.

4. Change the part

If you normally part your hair in the middle, a side part can disguise thinning hair at the temples.

5. Add texture

Sleek, straight hairstyles make thinning hair more obvious. If you usually blow out your hair or get relaxers, now may be the time to go with your natural curl. If you have straight hair, try doing a roller set or use a curling iron* to give your hair more volume and texture

*bonus*

6. Wear hair ornaments

Headbands*, scarves, and bandannas are fun and stylish ways to disguise hair loss. They’re especially popular with new moms who have little time to devote to hair care!