This is How to Handle Postpartum Hair Loss

When you have a new baby on the way, postpartum hair loss is likely the last thing on your mind. Instead, you’re likely focused on what color to paint the nursery (you’re nesting!) and how to prepare for your baby shower. But, in between thinking about décor and celebrating new life, you may notice that your pregnancy is impacting your beauty look. You’re already familiar with the idea of the pregnancy glow; you may even have a pregnancy skin care routine in place. But what about your hair? With your mane, it’s usually post-pregnancy when things seem to start going south for your strands—AKA experiencing hair loss after pregnancy. It’s good to be prepared with a hair care routine to manage postpartum hair loss. So, grab a pen and paper and get ready to take notes—we’re offering a lesson on how to handle postpartum hair loss (and what exactly postpartum hair loss is) below.

WHAT IS POSTPARTUM HAIR LOSS?

Before you start stressing, postpartum hair loss is totally normal. According to the Mayo Clinic, during pregnancy, elevated hormone levels increase the ratio of growing hair to resting or shedding hair, leading to an extra-lush head of hair. Of course, once those elevated hormone levels go away, hair loss after pregnancy comes into play. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), states that many new moms see noticeable hair loss a few months after having a baby. Dermatologists refer to this condition as excessive hair shedding, according to the AAD, which is caused by falling estrogen levels.

HOW TO MANAGE POSTPARTUM HAIR LOSS

Now that you know a little bit more about what postpartum hair loss is, it’s time to get down to business. The good news? The AAD states that postpartum hair loss is temporary. In fact, most women see their hair return to its normal fullness by their child’s first birthday—if not earlier—according to the AAD. While there’s no action that you need to take for postpartum hair loss, there are a few tips we can provide to help manage postpartum hair loss until you regain your normal mane. Take notes on our three tips below!

POSTPARTUM HAIR CARE TIP #1: USE A VOLUMIZING HAIR CARE LINE

The AAD recommends using a system of volumizing shampoos and conditioners. We’re fans of the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo, which should be paired with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Conditioner. Together they revive fine, flat hair while infusing hair with luminous shine and providing lasting volume with no weigh down.

POSTPARTUM HAIR CARE TIP #2: TAKE IT EASY ON THE CONDITIONER

Speaking of hair care systems, the AAD suggests avoiding heavy, intensive conditioners as they may weigh your hair down, leading to a limp appearance. Instead, opt for one that’s formulated for thin or fine hair. Consider using the L’Oréal Paris EverStrong Thickening Conditioner, paired with the L’Oréal Paris EverStrong Thickening Shampoo. This duo fortifies fragile, thin hair to promote thicker-looking locks.

Editor’s note: Per the AAD, it’s also a good idea to focus conditioner only on the ends of your hair to avoid weigh down.

POSTPARTUM HAIR CARE TIP #3: MAKE THE CHOP

The AAD states that some haircuts can make your hair look fuller and that many new mothers prefer short hair for this reason, as well as the fact that it can be easier to manage and less time-consuming. Need some recs for haircuts for fine hair? Consider rocking a blunt bob, lob, or U shape layers. To learn about these cuts and get more haircut inspo, check out the 25 Best Haircuts for Thin Hair.

POSTPARTUM HAIR CARE TIP #4: SWITCH UP YOUR STYLE

Aside from your haircut, your hairstyle can also help create the illusion of a fuller mane. Here are three styling tips to try.

Styling Tip #1: Change your part. A deep side part can help add instant lift to your roots, creating the appearance of a more voluminous mane. So, swap your middle part for a side-swept ‘do!

Styling Tip #2: Use a volume spray. For long-lasting volume and body, a volumizing root spray will be your best friend. Spritz the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT High Lift Creation Spray onto your roots for instant lift and volume. Fake it ‘til you make it!

Styling Tip #3: Pop in extensions. You may be familiar with using hair extensions for length, but have you considered using them for added thickness and volume? If you’re experiencing postpartum hair loss, extensions can be a temporary fix for adding instant depth to your mane.

Want more thin hair beauty tips that could be helpful for managing postpartum hair loss? Check out our 12 Hair Hacks to Make Thin Hair Look Thicker.