How to Prevent Hair Fall After Pregnancy: Expert Advice

Postpartum hair loss is a common ailment that begins around three months after birth and can last up to six months. It is a natural and transient component of pregnancy. Let’s look at the causes of hair loss after pregnancy and what you can do to manage this condition effectively.

Understanding Postpartum Hair Fall

Embracing motherhood is a beautiful experience, but it often results in bodily changes, such as postpartum hair loss. Some women may be surprised and disappointed to notice their hair thinning a few weeks after their baby's birth.

Causes of Hair Fall After Pregnancy

Decreased estrogen levels cause excessive shedding. The good news is that this excessive shedding is only transitory and requires no action. Most women's hair returns to normal fullness by their child's first birthday. Many women regain normal fullness much earlier.

Normal Hair Cycle Changes During and After Pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones cause many hairs in the growing phase (anagen) to transition abruptly into the resting phase (telogen). A few months later, you lose the hair. You have 80,000 to 120,000 hairs on your scalp and shed up to 100 each day. In postpartum hair loss, you lose more than 100 hairs every day.

Expert Tips to Prevent Hair Fall After Pregnancy

Pregnancy-related hair loss is very transient and does not require treatment. However, the AAD recommends the following tips for postpartum haircare:

1. Making the switch to volumizing conditioner and shampoo

2. Avoid shampoos labeled "conditioning shampoo" and conditioners labeled "intensive conditioners."

3. Apply conditioner to the ends of the hair rather than the scalp.

4. Using a conditioner designed for thin or fine hair.

5. Trying out a new hairstyle that creates the illusion of a fuller look.

• Maintain a Balanced Diet

A lack of iron, zinc, vitamin D, or other vital elements in the body causes hair loss. Hair growth supplements in your diet with natural sources of vitamin D, iron, zinc, calcium, and protein.

• Gentle Hair Care Practices

1. Be Gentle When Washing: Use a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo that will not strip your hair of natural oils. Wash your hair 2-3 times per week to keep it from becoming overly dry or fragile. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water, which can dry out your hair and scalp.

2. Condition your hair regularly: Use a deep conditioner or hair mask once a week to keep it soft and hydrated. After washing, use a leave-in conditioner to detangle your hair and prevent breakage.

3. Handle wet hair with care: Wet hair is more likely to break. Detangle hair gently with a wide-tooth comb, beginning at the ends and working your way up.

4. Reduce heat styling: Allow your hair to air-dry rather than using a blow dryer. If you have to use heat, apply a heat protector first. Flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers should be used less frequently.

5. Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Choose loose hairstyles such as low ponytails, buns, and braids. Avoid tight buns, ponytails, and braids because they can cause hair and scalp damage.

6. Nourish: Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as biotin, vitamin D, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Drinking plenty of water promotes scalp health and keeps hair hydrated.

7. Regular Trims: Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks helps prevent split ends.

8. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Bleaching, perming, and relaxing treatments can all weaken and damage hair.

9. Gentle Scalp Massage: It can increase blood flow to the hair follicles, further promoting hair growth.

• Manage Stress Levels

Some women's hair may thin and shed as a result of stress or shock. This disorder, known as telogen effluvium, affects a tiny proportion of pregnant women. The first trimester can be stressful for the body since the hormonal balance changes rapidly to support the growing baby.

• Postpartum Supplements

Postpartum hair loss is a result of hormonal changes after pregnancy, it usually goes away on its own, Certain nutrients can help maintain hair health. Nutrients that can help you manage hair loss after pregnancy, are biotin, iron, vitamin D, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, collagen, vitamin E, folic acid, and protein.

• Scalp Care

Caring for your scalp is equally as important as caring for your hair, especially during sensitive times such as postpartum and hair loss. Some scalp care practices to consider include keeping your scalp clean, exfoliating, massaging, moisturizing, balancing your scalp pH and dandruff, sun protection, avoiding tight hairstyles, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, avoiding heat damage, monitoring, and stress management.

Natural Remedies for Postpartum Hair Fall

1. Treat deficiency: Eat well. Don't ignore your health. In addition to low estrogen levels, hair loss after delivery is caused by a lack of nutrients in the body. Hair loss occurs due to a lack of iron, zinc, vitamin D, or other vital elements in the body. Vitamins should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet; continue taking your prenatal vitamins even after your baby is born.

2. Curd: It is a great tonic to restore the shine of your hair and prevent excessive hair fall. It is considered one of the best hair conditioners. Apart from including it in your diet, apply it to your scalp and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Wash it off with regular water to get soft and shiny hair.

3. Amla: It has been used in Ayurveda for many years to nourish hair. It is used to strengthen hair roots, maintain hair color, and increase shine. Boil amla with coconut or almond oil till it becomes black, then use the hair oil to massage your hair or incorporate it into your diet to gain the benefits.

4. Egg whites: Make a hair pack by combining one egg white, two tablespoons of olive oil, and one tablespoon of honey. Apply it to your hair. Leave it on your hair for about 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Egg white is high in protein, which encourages hair growth, while honey adds gloss and olive oil strengthens the hair.

5. Fenugreek seeds: These tiny seeds can work wonders for your hair. It encourages healthy hair growth and prevents hair loss. Soak the fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Strain the water and form a paste from the seeds. Apply the paste to your scalp and leave for 30 minutes. Use the filtered water to rinse your hair. Do it twice a week for the best results.

6. Dry fruits and flax seeds: Include these items in your daily diet to support healthy hair development. These are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote health.

7. Bhringraj: Include it in your diet, or make a paste from fresh bhringraj leaves and apply it.

8. Aloe vera: Apply aloe vera gel to your scalp and leave it for half. It stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which encourages hair growth, hydrates the scalp, and prevents dandruff.

9. Regular massage: Massage with coconut oil, amla oil, or almond oil improves blood circulation, resulting in increased hair growth.

10. Coconut: Massage coconut milk onto your scalp to decrease hair loss. You may also burn coconut shells to ashes and then add the ashes to the oil before massaging your hair. Regularly massaging with this will reduce hair loss and boost hair volume. 

Homemade Hair Masks

A scalp oil, as well as a DIY scalp oil recipe, can help with postpartum hair loss. It contains nourishing oils like jojoba and castor, as well as stimulating essential oils. When applied to the scalp, this oil can increase blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote hair growth. Ingredients include jojoba oil (2 tablespoons), castor oil (2 tablespoons), rosemary essential oil (10 drops), peppermint essential oil (5 drops), and lavender essential oil (5 drops).

In a small bowl, combine the jojoba oil and castor oil. Add the rosemary, peppermint, and lavender essential oils, and stir thoroughly. Transfer the oil blend to a glass dropper bottle. Apply the oil to your scalp, focusing on the areas where you are losing hair. Massage the oil into your scalp for 5–10 minutes. Leave the oil on your scalp for at least 30 minutes, or overnight. Wash your hair as usual.

Herbal Treatments

1. Aloe Vera: It has soothing and hydrating characteristics that can help calm an inflamed scalp, alleviate dandruff, and stimulate hair. Apply, After 20-30 minutes, and rinse.

2. Rosemary: Rosemary increases blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. It also has antibacterial qualities that promote scalp health. Brew rosemary leaves in water to make a rinse, or use rosemary essential oil diluted in carrier oil for a scalp massage.

3. Lavender: Lavender contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities that can soothe the scalp and alleviate dandruff. It also encourages relaxation, which can help with stress-related hair difficulties. Add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your shampoo, conditioner, or carrier oil for a soothing scalp massage.

4. Nettle (Stinging Nettle): Nettle contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as iron and silica, all of which can strengthen and encourage hair development. It also reduces scalp inflammation. Make a nettle tea rinse by steeping dried nettle leaves in boiling water, then chill and use as a last rinse after shampooing.

5. Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds can reduce dandruff, strengthen hair, and stimulate hair growth. They contain proteins and nicotinic acid, then crush and apply the paste, and leave for 30-45 minutes.

6. Calendula: It contains anti-inflammatory and therapeutic qualities that help soothe sensitive scalps and encourage hair development. Brew calendula flowers in hot water, then cool and use as a rinse. Alternatively, mix calendula with a carrier oil and apply it to the scalp.

7. Chamomile: It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, and treats sensitive scalps and dandruff. Make chamomile tea and use it to rinse your hair after shampooing.

8. Henna: Henna is used to treat hair, add luster, and improve scalp health. It contains natural antifungal and antibacterial effects. To make a paste, combine henna powder and water (and other substances such as yogurt or lemon juice). Apply it to your hair and scalp, let it sit for a few hours, and then rinse it off.

9. Peppermint: Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that helps calm the scalp and increase blood circulation. It also contains antibacterial properties. Mix peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your scalp.

10. Hibiscus: Its flowers and leaves are high in vitamins and amino acids, which help strengthen hair, prevent dandruff, and stimulate hair growth. Paste flowers and leaves, or blend hibiscus powder with water or yogurt. Apply it to your scalp and hair, leave for 30–60 minutes, and then rinse.

11. Amla: Amla is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to strengthen hair follicles, decrease hair loss, and promote healthy hair development. Apply amla oil to the scalp or make a paste from amla powder and water. Apply it to your scalp and hair, leave it on for 30-45 minutes, and then rinse it.

12. Green Tea: It has antioxidant properties, helps prevent hair loss, encourages hair growth, and soothes the scalp. Brew green tea (cool it), and rinse it. You can use green tea extract alone or in combination with a carrier oil.

13. Bhringraj: Bhringraj is a traditional Ayurvedic herb that promotes hair growth, reduces hair loss, and improves scalp health. It can be used to massage the scalp or made into a paste with water and applied as a hair mask.

14. Horsetail: It contains silica, which can strengthen hair, prevent breakage, and stimulate hair growth. Brew horsetail tea, use it as a hair rinse, or take horsetail supplements.

15. Sage: It contains astringent characteristics that might help regulate oil production on the scalp and prevent dandruff. It also promotes natural hair darkening.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seeking expert help for scalp or hair problems is important, especially if you have persistent or severe symptoms. Excessive hair loss, persistent scalp itching or irritation, unexplained bald patches, scalp sores, lesions, or unusual bumps, scalp pain or tenderness, severe dandruff, unusual hair texture changes, scalp infections, hair not growing back, side effects from hair products or treatments, hormonal changes, psychological impact, scalp conditions that affect sleep, and family history.

Recognizing Abnormal Hair Loss

It's natural to lose some hair each day, specific patterns or rates of hair loss can be a sign of underlying problems. The difference between normal and abnormal hair loss, including hair loss, abnormal hair loss, diagnosis, and treatment.

• Consulting a Dermatologist or Trichologist

With so many different reasons for hair loss, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis, which is why consulting a dermatologist is the best option. Dermatologists are medically trained, whereas trichologists are qualified and registered with the Institute of Trichologists.

• Medical Treatments and Interventions

Here is an overview of the most common therapy options:

1. Minoxidil: It is a vasodilator that promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to the follicles. It is widely used to treat pattern baldness in men and women. Applied straight to the scalp, usually twice per day. It can decrease hair loss and boost regrowth in certain people. Results may take several months to become apparent.

2. Corticosteroids: They lower inflammation and suppress the immune system, making them effective in treating autoimmune diseases such as alopecia areata. It can be used topically, injected into the scalp, or consumed orally.

3. Topical Immunotherapy: This includes applying chemicals to the scalp, such as diphencyprone (DPCP), to cause an allergic reaction, which may aid in hair regrowth in cases of alopecia areata. It is used under medical supervision. This can cause hair regrowth in some people.

4. Finasteride: It prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that shrinks hair follicles and causes hair loss. It is mostly used to treat male-pattern baldness. It can reduce hair loss and boost regrowth, but the results are only temporary.

5. Spironolactone: Anti-androgen medication, is used to treat hair loss in women by blocking the effects of androgens that cause hair loss. This can reduce hair thinning and promote hair regrowth in women with androgenic alopecia.

6. Oral Corticosteroids: It has been used to inhibit the immune system and reduce inflammation. It may help with hair regrowth, but long-term use is limited due to adverse effects.

7. Immunosuppressants: These medications suppress the immune system and are sometimes prescribed for severe cases of alopecia areata or other autoimmune-related hair loss. They can help reduce hair loss, but there are major hazards.

8. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: In PRP therapy, the patient's blood is extracted, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into the scalp. The growth factors in PRP may help increase hair growth and thickness. Many individuals have increased hair density and thickness, particularly when combined with other therapies.

9. Hair Transplant Surgery: Hair follicles are harvested from densely-haired parts of the scalp and transplanted into thinning or balding areas.

10. Laser Therapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy or LLLT): It stimulates hair follicles and encourages hair growth by increasing blood flow and cellular activity. Some studies indicate that LLLT can enhance hair density, particularly in androgenetic alopecia.

11. Scalp Micropigmentation: Cosmetic treatment in which tiny, tattooed dots are put on the scalp to resemble hair follicles, creating the illusion of fuller hair or a shaved head.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about hair loss, scalp problems, and their treatments.

• Question: How Long Does Postpartum Hair Fall Last?

• Answer: Hair fall peaks four months after the birth of the baby. By the time the baby turns one year old, women's hair starts growing again. If your hair does not regain its natural fullness after one year, you should consult a dermatologist.

• Question: Can Hair Fall Be Completely Prevented After Pregnancy?

• Answer: Hair loss after pregnancy can cause stress and anxiety. Hair loss during childbirth is natural and common. And, while you can't avoid it, the appropriate hair products and hairstyles can help while you wait for your hair to regrow.

• Question: Are There Any Specific Products Recommended for Postpartum Hair Care?

• Answer: There is no therapy for postpartum hair loss, but the following techniques can make your hair feel fuller and prevent additional loss and damage: Select a shampoo and conditioner that adds volume.

Embracing the Changes and Taking Care of Your Hair

Embracing and caring for your hair, particularly during times of hair loss or other changes, can be both uplifting and practical. Some advice and methods that will help you have healthy hair, hair care, nutrition and hydration, hair loss, protective measures, mental and emotional well-being, researching options, and practicing patience.

Long-Term Hair Health Tips

Maintaining long-term hair health requires a combination of good habits, a healthy lifestyle, and consistent treatments. Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, follow a hair care routine, control hair loss, take care of scalp health, trim regularly, manage stress, avoid tight hairstyles, use hair care products, health issues, professional treatments, make healthy lifestyle choices, and stay informed. By implementing this into your daily routine, you can help keep your hair healthy and vibrant for longer, making it look and feel its best over time.

Conclusion

Some people may have hair that thickens and grows faster during pregnancy. People who have recently given birth may have postpartum hair loss. This happens when hormone levels change. Postpartum hair loss can occur but is usually transient. Many people may experience a peak in hair loss four months following childbirth. If a person's hair does not return to its original state after a year, they should consult a doctor.