Postpartum Hair Loss – What’s the Deal?

As if new mums didn’t have enough to deal with, as many as 50% of us suffer from hair loss post childbirth.

Postpartum hair loss typically starts around three months after you’ve given birth and is all down to those pesky pregnancy hormones.  Remember when you were pregnant and noticed that your hair was extra thick and glossy?  The elevated levels of estrogen in your body actually prevented hair loss (normally we lose around 100 hairs a day).  Add to this your increased blood volume and circulation and you had the perfect recipe for luscious locks.

Once your baby arrives however, your levels of estrogen drop and your hair is making up for the previous nine months by shedding in larger volumes.

If you are experiencing postpartum hair loss, don’t worry, it’s only temporary and your mane should be back to normal by your child’s first birthday.

In the meantime, what should you do with your diminishing hair?  Ann Marie Ogg, senior stylist at Judena Hair in North Bondi, recommends taking supplements and using a good quality shampoo and conditioner specifically for hair loss.

“Cutting hair shorter is a good idea and styling with ghd waves makes hair look fuller,” she says.  Hair contouring could also help.  “We add different tones of colour around the face to give the illusion of an oval face shape, which is the most desirable face shape”.

Speak to your hairdresser about the best solution for your hair type and length.  If your hair loss is severe or continues for more than a year postpartum, be sure to consult your doctor.

Try the following to help you with your shedding hair:

  • use a good quality volume shampoo and conditioner followed by a volumising mouse or spray
  • be gentle on your hair when combing or brushing – use wide tooth
  • avoid using straighteners until your hair is strong again
  • Continue with prenatal vitamins – can help.
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