If you're reading this, you may have had a new baby recently, so huge congratulations! However, there's also a good chance that you're now experiencing hair loss — a not-so-welcome result of giving birth, says Shobhana.
Coping with hair loss after giving birth
Many new mums find that they quickly lose a lot of hair after giving birth. The good news is that this is normal and, in most cases, it's temporary and doesn't mean there is anything wrong.
What causes postpartum hair loss?
"Pregnant women often find that their hair gets thicker and greasier," explains Shobhana. "This is probably related to estrogen which changes the usual cycle of hair growth and loss, so the scalp holds onto hair for longer. You may also notice thicker eyebrows and eyelashes."
After birth, all that extra hair is shed when estrogen levels fall. It may feel alarming, but it's usually just your hair returning to its pre-pregnancy state. Patience is key — hormone levels can take a few months to settle.
New mums can also develop thinning after a stressful birth. This is called telogen effluvium and typically appears around three months after the triggering event. Again, it's usually temporary and the hair regrows.
Help for post-baby hair
While you're waiting for your hair and hormones to settle down, Shobhana suggests taking these positive, confidence-boosting steps to ensure you stay looking and feeling good:
Try a head massage
Massage helps dial down stress while stimulating blood flow across your scalp to encourage healthy hair regrowth.
Change your hairbrush
Avoid harsh bristles and metal combs. Opt for softer, natural bristles to massage your scalp and protect fragile strands from breakage. Ask us if you'd like advice.
Use thickening products
Thickening shampoos, conditioners, mousses and hairsprays can add body. We can also recommend serums and leave-in treatments tailored to your hair.
Eat your veg — and plenty of protein
Dark green vegetables, berries, eggs, lean meat, fish, seafood and dairy all help give your hair the nutrients it needs to recover.
Thinning hair styling tips for mums
"Pop in for a consultation and be inspired," says Shobhana. There are different things you can try to help disguise temporary hair loss and bring back some of that pre-pregnancy pizzazz:
- Move your parting — thinning often shows more along your usual parting. A simple switch can make a noticeable difference.
- Go shorter or more layered — ask us which styles will make the most of your post-baby hair.
- Try a new hair color — highlights or balayage can create the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.
- Rock a color spray — temporarily disguise sparse areas for a fuller, more voluminous look.
- Experiment with extensions — they're not just for length. We can use them to add volume while your hair recovers.
When to see your GP
Our clients' health and safety always comes first. It's best to get advice from your GP if:
- Your hair loss persists beyond the usual postpartum window.
- Clumps of hair are falling out.
- You have bald patches.
- Your scalp is painful, burning or inflamed.
Book a consultation today
Would you like expert advice on how to cope with post-baby hair? Call now to book a consultation or ask about our self-care retail products.
Free Postpartum Hair Consultation
Scalp Analysis • Gentle Styling Advice • Thickening Treatments • Nourishing Retail Products
Tracy Naglee • Tracy Grant Line • Livermore Second St
Tracy: (209) 879-9852 • (209) 221-0342 | Livermore: (925) 236-2680