Pregnancy can bring about many changes in your body. It also happens to be the time when your crowning glory is at its most lush and voluminous. Then the moment you say hello to your bundle of joy and poof… postpartum sets in and you say goodbye to your thick and lustrous hair.
What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?
There’s no need to freak out — this is a completely normal phenomenon. On average, a person loses 100 strands of hair a day. During pregnancy, however, your body has an increased level of estrogen, which in effect, freezes the hair’s normal cycle to the resting phase. This prevents your hair from falling out, giving you a fuller mane during pregnancy. Your hair can’t be in the resting phase forever and as soon as you give birth, estrogen in your body will go back to its normal level and your crowning glory will resume from where it left off in its cycle.
Most women, especially those with long hair, experience hair loss since giving birth and this condition may last for 6-12 months. Strands of hair may fall from all over your head or along your hairline. It may fall off in clumps especially when you shower or brush your hair.
What Can You Do to Minimize Hair Loss?
This hormonal hair loss is completely normal and temporary. However, if you want to minimize the number of hair strands you keep sweeping off the floor, here are some tips.
Opt for a shorter ‘do. It’s easier to manage, more baby-friendly, and a short-layered haircut will make your hair look fuller.
Eat healthy food during pregnancy and postpartum. Take prenatal vitamin supplement religiously — this is not only good for your hair, but you’re also ensuring the health of your baby as well.
Experiment with various hair products. Hair mousse and thickener can help give your hair a fuller look. Use shampoo sparingly and only when necessary. Ditch heavy conditioners as they will only weigh down your hair strands.
Be extra gentle with your hair. Don’t tie up your hair tightly using a rubber band. Use barrettes or scrunchies instead. And go for a wide-toothed comb to minimize shedding when detangling your hair.
Skip any chemically-based treatments for the meantime and avoid using a blow dryer as well as curling and flat irons at least until your hair is back to its normal phase.
If you notice excessive shedding, talk to your healthcare specialist. While hair loss after giving birth is normal, if accompanied with some other symptoms, it may be a sign of other medical conditions like postpartum thyroiditis or anemia and should be treated accordingly. If you’re looking for hair loss solutions click here to set up a free consultation at Custom Hair Tampa Bay.
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