Postpartum hair loss: Causes, treatments and what’s normal

What is postpartum hair loss? 

Postpartum hair loss happens when you shed a lot of hair months after giving birth. It’s a common condition and is thought to be caused by hormonal changes happening in your body. 

On top of losing hair, you may notice that the condition of your hair changes in the months after giving birth. It may feel drier and appear less shiny. These changes can feel disheartening, particularly alongside other physical signs of childbirth, for example, leaky breasts or increased stretch marks, but they are all a natural part of the process. Keep in mind that hair loss is temporary and is another symptom of your postpartum recovery.

When does postpartum hair loss start?

Unlike some other postpartum symptoms, hair loss doesn’t occur until around three months after giving birth. Hair loss is believed to be mainly caused by the natural drop in estrogen levels that occurs after childbirth. The exact timing of these hormonal shifts will, of course, vary between individuals. For most people, the shedding will subside, and their hair will return to its usual fullness within six months to one year after giving birth.

How does postpartum hair loss occur?

You may notice you’re finding more hair on your pillow when you wake up in the morning, or perhaps more strands are coming out when you brush or comb your hair. This is all down to the life cycle of hair follicles.

If you experienced thicker hair in pregnancy, this was caused by your hormone levels effectively pausing the process that causes your hair to shed. This meant that you didn’t lose as much hair as you normally would. In the postpartum period, this process of shedding resumes, but because of the increased amount of hair, you will notice an increase in hair loss. 

How common is postpartum hair loss?

Postpartum hair loss is very common — one study found that more than 90% of women surveyed had experienced some form of postpartum hair loss. It’s nothing to worry about, but hair loss at any time of life can be alarming or distressing, especially if you aren’t expecting it. 

More research needs to be done in this area, but it’s thought that hair loss can be made worse by other factors associated with the postpartum phase, such as stress, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, it’s extra important to take care of yourself to aid a healthy recovery during this time. 

Is postpartum hair loss permanent?

The good news is that this type of hair loss isn’t permanent and lasts only a few months. For most people, hair loss will stop by six months to one year postpartum. If you notice you’re still shedding a lot of hair after this time, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. Hair loss can be a symptom of something else, such as an iron deficiency or thyroid condition.

How to manage postpartum hair loss

In most cases, postpartum hair loss is a natural occurrence that, while inconvenient and in some cases distressing, will go away on its own. If you have extreme hair loss or loss persists for more than six months to one year postpartum, you should talk to your doctor. In the meantime, you can do a few things at home to manage your hair loss, including:

• Choose a gentle shampoo or conditioner
• Reduce the amount you wash, brush, or style your hair
• Avoid heat treatments or use styling tools on a cooler setting 
• If you wear your hair up, tie it up loosely to avoid pulling or tugging 
• Eat a healthy diet and try to get as much sleep as you can (we know it’s not always easy)
• Avoid crash diets; your body needs nutrients as part of your postpartum recovery, even more so if you’re breastfeeding 
• Consider getting a trim: you may find shorter hair makes hair loss less daunting and can be easier to maintain while you care for your newborn

Do prenatal supplements help with postpartum hair loss?

There is little to no evidence to suggest that prenatal supplements can help reduce hair loss or promote hair growth postpartum. However, it's your choice if you want to continue with supplements or want to give them a go. Always make sure you check with your doctor before taking any additional vitamins or minerals to make sure it’s safe for you as well as for your baby if you’re breastfeeding.

Dealing with postpartum hair loss

After birth, our bodies undergo many changes, and some symptoms can be surprising if we don’t know about them. The postpartum journey looks different for everyone, but you may find it helpful to discuss your experience with your support network — you may find others who have been through what you are now experiencing.

If you are worried about the amount of hair you are shedding, you can always talk to your doctor to see if everything is normal, and they may be able to offer you additional advice.

Postpartum hair loss home remedies

If you want to manage postpartum hair loss at home, you can try a few simple remedies. While there is limited evidence to support these methods (specifically in treating postpartum hair loss), you may find home treatments relaxing and enjoyable as part of your postpartum self-care routine. Keep in mind that severe hair loss should always be treated by a doctor and these remedies do not replace professional medical management.

Coconut oil (it’s not just for cooking with)

An easy-to-get ingredient often cited as a superfood, coconut oil can make a great addition to your hair care routine in the postpartum period. It’s natural and gentle, and massing oil into the scalp can help with blood flow, which in turn can promote hair growth. Coconut oil is a versatile home remedy during pregnancy and can help with other postpartum symptoms like stretch marks. 

Apple cider vinegar rinse

Vinegar has long been used as an at-home solution for shiny hair, and there might just be some science behind this retro remedy. It’s thought the acidity in apple cider vinegar can help balance pH and bring luster back to dull hair. A 2014 study found that alkaline-heavy shampoos can lead to increased dryness and breakage, and the acidity in apple cider vinegar can help combat just that. However, this handy hair hack is all about balance, and it’s important not to overdo it. Dilute no more than five tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a pint of water, and limit your vinegar rinses to a couple of times a week.

You can incorporate vinegar into your regular hair-washing routine by adding a ‘rinse’ after washing and conditioning your hair as normal. Leave the water/vinegar mix in your hair for a few moments before rinsing with warm water. 

Honey shampoo

Known for its antifungal and antibiotic properties, honey is a frequently praised health food, but did you know it can also be used as shampoo? Homemade hair wash may be gentler than some shop-bought options, and you can make a very simple shampoo by mixing honey with water and applying it in the shower as you would with your regular shampoo. 

Research is limited when it comes to how effective honey is in a postpartum context, but one small study found that regular use of honey helped treat itching, scaling, and hairloss in both male and female patients.

Homemade hair masks

From egg to avocado to onion, there are loads of recipes out there for homemade hair masks. These are a cost-effective way to show yourself some self-care. While the jury may still be out on just how effective these home remedies are in treating postpartum hair loss, we’re fully behind you in taking some time to focus on your well-being. Remember that self-care combats stress, which in turn promotes all kinds of recovery.

What foods help with postpartum hair loss?

Although it might be challenging to follow a healthy and balanced diet while you’re busy taking care of your newborn, getting good nutrition in this special period is well worth the effort. Your body is going through a big transition and needs a nutritional boost. There are certain foods known to help promote healthy hair, including:

• Fatty fish: If sushi was off the menu for you during pregnancy, then it’s time to reach for the chopsticks again. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are packed with Omega-3 oils that promote healthy skin and hair. 

• Green veggies: Leafy greens like spinach and kale contain Vitamin A, which has an important role in hair growth. Iron deficiency has also been linked to hair loss, but thankfully, green veg is typically packed with this important mineral which also helps combat tiredness (we think that’s pretty important right now).

• Eggs: Containing amino acids and vitamins that are essential for hair growth, eggs are rich in protein and double up as a handy ingredient for a hair mask. 

• Avocado: Quick to prepare and easy to eat in a salad or on toast, the humble avocado has plenty of benefits to offer during your postpartum recovery. They are also full of B Complex Vitamins, as well as potassium and magnesium, postpartum research is limited, but separate studies have shown these promote hair growth in menopausal women and those with PCOS. Just like eggs, you can also use avocado as an ingredient in a homemade hair mask. 

• Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries are all abundant with Vitamin C, an important player in collagen production (which is key to healthy hair and skin). There are lots of ways to incorporate berries into your diet, from putting them on cereal in the morning to having them as a sweet treat at the end of your day. 

• Red meat: A good source of zinc and iron, red meat like beef, lamb, or venison can be eaten as part of a healthy diet to promote hair growth and repair. Research suggests zinc plays an important role in hormonal regulation. 

When should I see my healthcare provider?

We hope you’ve learned a lot about what to expect with postpartum hair loss. If you’re still worried or have experienced hair loss for more than six months to one year after having your baby, now is the right time to talk to your doctor. They can help answer any additional questions you may have and can offer further tests and treatment as needed.

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