For many mothers, their hair during pregnancy is shinier, thicker, and healthier than ever before. That's why the moment a few months after childbirth, when handfuls of hair start appearing on the brush, can feel stressful. However, this is a completely natural biological process called telogen effluvium.
The Effect of the Hair Cycle and Estrogen on Hair Loss
To understand postpartum hair loss, one must understand the hair's life cycle. Normally, 100-150 hairs fall out per day. Normally, about 85-90% of hair is in the growth phase (anagen), and the rest is in the resting phase (telogen), after which the hair falls out. During pregnancy, high estrogen levels alter this balance: they forcibly keep hair in the growth phase longer than usual. In this situation, hair does not fall out at the normal rate, and many experience their hair thickening during pregnancy.
What happens after childbirth?
When the baby is born, estrogen levels plummet. This signals the hair follicles to enter the resting phase. Approximately 3–6 months after childbirth, all the hairs that should have fallen out during pregnancy shed simultaneously. For many, this only happens after breastfeeding ceases, but this is highly individual. Thus, it is not a permanent thinning of the hair but rather the release of a "backlogged" shedding phase. Many also experience scalp dryness or oiliness as hormone levels fluctuate, which is why it is important to pay attention to scalp care and well-being.
How can you support your scalp and hair growth?
Although hormonal hair loss cannot be completely stopped with external agents or cosmetics (because the cause is internal), you can, and should, support new hair growth and scalp well-being:
1. Gentle washing: Opt for shampoos that do not contain strong sulfates or are too stripping. A mild shampoo and a double wash work best for many! Gentler shampoos cleanse the scalp without irritating it, which is important for new, delicate growth.
2. Scalp massage: A light massage, for example, during washing, stimulates blood circulation in the scalp. This ensures that the hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients through blood flow. Scalp massage for a new mother is also relaxing, and a partner or postpartum doula can perform it.
3. Nutrition: Hair building blocks come from within. Ensure sufficient intake of iron, zinc, and biotin – amidst breastfeeding and baby life, a balanced diet is hair's best friend too. Easier said than done, we know.
4. Scalp moisturization: It is advisable to choose a light supporting product for the scalp that nourishes and moisturizes it. A moisturized, balanced scalp also doesn't get oily as quickly. Our Baby Hair Boost hair water contains moisturizing aloe vera leaf juice and xylitol, which care for scalp well-being without making it feel greasy. Red algae extract and rosemary nourish the scalp, thus supporting new hair growth. How to use: Spray the hair water onto clean, towel-dried hair and let it dry, or blow-dry and style as desired. Tip! You can use the hair water all over the scalp, or as a targeted treatment for areas where hair loss is most visible.
Should you be concerned about hair loss?
Postpartum hair loss usually normalizes by the time the child turns one. If hair loss is very severe, the scalp shows symptoms, or the situation continues for a long time, it is advisable to have ferritin or thyroid values checked by a doctor.
Remember: What you see on the brush is a sign that your body has done tremendous work and is now returning to its own rhythm. Blame it on hormones, babe.