- Hair shedding after pregnancy often starts around 3 to 6 months postpartum and typically improves within about a year.
- Protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin A support hair structure and scalp health, and can be emphasized through diet and postnatal supplements when recommended.
- A dermatologist evaluation is important if hair loss is severe, causes patches, or continues beyond the expected postpartum timeframe, especially while breastfeeding.
Postpartum hair loss can be managed with a balanced diet that includes enough protein, vitamins, and minerals, along with gentle scalp care. Regular scalp massage and daily brushing may also help support healthy hair.
Hair shedding after pregnancy is common due to hormonal changes. It often starts around 3 to 6 months after delivery and typically improves within 1 year.
If hair loss continues beyond this timeframe, it is important to see a dermatologist. Treatment should be tailored to the postpartum period and avoid interfering with breastfeeding.
Basic tips
Some tips to help reduce postpartum hair loss include:
1. Increasing protein intake
During the postpartum period, especially when breastfeeding, it is important to follow a nutritious and well-balanced diet to support both mother and baby.
Including high-protein foods is essential, as protein supplies amino acids essential for producing keratin, hair's primary building block, and may help ease postpartum shedding. Opt for eggs, lean meats, fish, or legumes to meet these needs effectively.
2. Getting enough zinc
Zinc is important for reducing postpartum hair loss because it is involved in keratin synthesis, which supports hair development, repair, and strength.
For this reason, it is recommended to include foods such as Brazil nuts and lean beef in the diet.
3. Eating iron-rich foods
Iron is an essential mineral in the postpartum period because it helps prevent anemia, which can reduce oxygen delivery to body tissues, including the scalp.
This can contribute to telogen effluvium, which can cause excessive postpartum hair shedding.
For this reason, it is recommended to consume iron-rich foods such as beans, beets, and parsley.
4. Massaging the scalp
Gently massaging the scalp can increase blood circulation in the area, which may stimulate hair follicles and support hair growth.
Use your fingertips to gently massage the area with light circular motions for 5-10 minutes.
5. Consuming vitamin A
Vitamin A is also important for hair because it helps nourish hair follicles, which may reduce postpartum hair loss and support new hair growth.
Vitamin A can be found in foods such as raw carrots and spinach.
6. Take postnatal supplements
Taking postnatal supplements can help provide nutrients needed in the postpartum period and support breastfeeding.
These supplements contain essential vitamins and minerals for this phase and may also help with postpartum hair loss.
Postnatal supplements often include B-complex vitamins, iron, folic acid, omega-3s, vitamin D, and calcium, and should be used as directed by your OBGYN or midwife.
7. Drinking fortified smoothies and juices
Another option is to drink 2 glasses per day of fruit-and-vegetable juice or smoothies, which can help replenish vitamins and minerals that support hair strength and growth.
Suggested recipes include: 1 carrot + 1 apple + 1 tablespoon of ground Brazil nuts, or 1 carrot blended with the juice of 2 oranges. You can also try making a smoothie out of plain yogurt, papaya, avocado, and 1 Brazil nut.
8. Using products for fragile hair
Using shampoos, conditioners, and hair-loss serums from reputable brands may help reduce postpartum hair loss and support new hair growth.
Vitamin A ampoules may also be used to keep hair looking healthy and hydrated, although vitamin A tends to be more effective when it is obtained through food.
9. Washing hair only 3 times per week
Avoiding washing and brushing the hair more than 3 times per week may help limit hair breakage and shedding.
It can also help to use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair and remove knots.
10. Avoiding heat styling
Postpartum hair loss often stops naturally about 1 year after delivery, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
During this period, it is recommended to avoid heat styling, including flat irons and blow dryers, and to avoid chemical procedures like perms or relaxers, even if not breastfeeding.
This is because postpartum hair can be more fragile and prone to breakage, and excessive heat can further damage hair and worsen shedding.
11. Brushing hair daily
Brushing hair daily in a gentle way, without pulling or applying too much force, may help with postpartum hair loss.
This is because brushing can increase scalp circulation and support nutrient delivery to the hair follicles, which may help strengthen hair and reduce shedding.
Soft-bristle brushes or gentle combs are recommended.
12. Taking medication for hair loss
When hair loss is very intense and leads to visible thinning or patches, a dermatologist may recommend iron supplements, since anemia during pregnancy and postpartum can also contribute to hair loss.
A dermatologist evaluation may also be appropriate if hair does not regain its normal fullness after one year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
A dermatologist may also recommend specific medications for hair loss.