mainly involves taking care of your child, postpartum hair loss is a serious condition that majority face
women. Thicker, fuller hair is one of the best changes of pregnancy. Many pregnant women say
they have the best hair of their life during pregnancy. Unfortunately, just like pregnancy itself,
beautiful hair is temporary.
It can be a nasty surprise when your hair starts to thin out a few weeks (8-12 weeks) after your
baby was born. You may find loose hairs on your pillow and clothes, or hair may be clogging your shower drain.
This increase in hair loss is perfectly normal. It is due to the return of estrogen levels to the pre-
state of pregnancy.
Increased hair loss after having a baby is not a sign that you are losing your hair permanently. Your
the hair should return to its normal growth over time. When your baby turns one year old, you can
probably expect your hair to be as voluminous as it usually is at the roots.
Advice for new mothers struggling with postpartum hair loss.
Doctors recommend a healthy and balanced diet. It can help hair grow after the
the load shedding phase ends.
Use a volumizing shampoo – these contain ingredients like proteins that coat the hair, making it
appear fuller.
Avoid using heavy conditioners which can weigh hair down and make it limp.
Try a new hairstyle. Many new moms prefer short hair. A short style can make the hair look fuller.
Short hair can also be easier to style, which can save time.
Don’t tie your hair too tight. Do not use tight hair accessories such as rubber ponytail holders
or hair clips. Also, avoid too tight ponytails which cause pulling and hair to fall out easily.
If your hair continues to thin or doesn’t seem to be growing back, you can discuss this with
your dermatologist. You may have other health conditions causing hair loss, such as anemia or
thyroid condition, vitamin D or vit B12 deficiency that must be corrected. In severe cases, your dermatologist after a full evaluation will advise you on Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy which
helps regrow and restore receding hairline.
With contributions from Dr. Deepthi Ravishankar MD, FRGUHS Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, Davangere.
Learn more: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/hair-care
