Bringing a new life into the world is transformative, but so are the physical changes that come with it. One of the most common (and unexpected) changes many women face is postpartum hair loss. If you’ve been noticing more strands in your brush or on your pillow a few months after childbirth, you’re not alone. This temporary shedding is normal, but understanding what’s happening can help you feel more in control.
Let’s break down what causes postpartum hair loss, how long it typically lasts, and the best ways to manage it naturally, without harsh treatments or stress.
What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?
During pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep your hair in a prolonged growth phase (anagen), making it look fuller and thicker. But after delivery, estrogen levels rapidly drop, pushing many hair follicles into the fall (telogen) phase. This shift is what leads to a condition called telogen effluvium, where more hair than usual falls out at once.
This typically begins 2–4 months after childbirth, peaks around month 4–5, and gradually improves by the time your baby is around one year old. In most cases, it resolves on its own without any permanent damage.
What Can Make Postpartum Hair Loss Worse?
While hormone fluctuations are the main culprit, a few additional factors may influence the severity:
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Extended Breastfeeding: Some research suggests long-term lactation may prolong telogen effluvium.(Source)
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Preterm Delivery: Women who experience preterm labor may undergo greater physiological stress, which can exacerbate shedding.
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Emotional Stress: Anxiety, sleep deprivation, and postpartum depression can all increase cortisol levels, further impacting hair health.
4 Natural Ways to Manage Postpartum Hair Loss
While you can’t stop this process entirely, there are safe and gentle ways to support your scalp and hair health during this transition period.
1. Prioritize a Hair-Healthy Diet
Your hair is a low-priority organ when it comes to nutrient distribution. So if your diet is lacking, your hair often shows it first. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help speed up recovery.
Key nutrients to include:
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Protein: Hair is made of keratin, a structural protein. Include tofu, paneer, dal, quinoa, yogurt, or soy-based foods.
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Iron: Low iron is a common postpartum issue that can worsen hair fall. Add spinach, sesame seeds, jaggery, or iron-fortified cereals.
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Biotin and B-vitamins: Essential for hair structure and root strength. Found in whole grains, almonds, walnuts, peanuts, and leafy greens.
- Vitamin D and Zinc: Crucial for hair growth cycles. Get sun exposure, mushrooms, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and fortified plant milks.
2. Adopt a Gentle Hair Care Routine
Postpartum hair is often more fragile, so treating it kindly can go a long way in preventing breakage and promoting growth.
Dos:
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Use a wide-tooth rosewood/neemwood comb and detangle from the ends upward.
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Wash with shampoos containing ingredients like panthenol, caffeine, biotin and follow with nourishing conditioners containing ingredients like amino acids, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
You can also incorporate a hair growth serum into your routine, applied once daily on the scalp. Look for formulations with clinically studied actives such as Redensyl, Anagain, and plant stem cells to help stimulate follicles and support regrowth.
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Let hair air-dry; avoid towel rubbing or rough brushing.
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Use satin pillowcases to reduce friction overnight.
Don’ts:
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Avoid tight ponytails or buns that tug on roots.
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Minimize the use of straighteners, curling irons, and dryers.
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Skip over-washing; 2–3 times a week is ideal.
3. Reduce Stress—It Matters More Than You Think
Your hair follicles are surprisingly responsive to emotional and physiological stress. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the natural growth cycle and worsen hair fall.
Simple ways to ease stress:
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5-minute deep breathing or guided meditations daily
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Postnatal yoga or light stretching to regulate hormones and improve circulation
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Daily walks, ideally in nature, to boost serotonin levels
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Talking it out—don’t hesitate to seek professional help or support groups if you're feeling overwhelmed
Nurturing your mental health is just as important as caring for your hair.
4. Scalp Massage Can Stimulate Growth
Daily scalp massages increase blood flow to the hair follicles and help distribute natural oils. Use your fingertips or a silicone massager with gentle circular motions for 3–5 minutes. You can enhance this by using a light botanical oil (like rosemary, sweet almond, or argan) a couple of times a week.
Not only does it feel soothing, but it also signals your body to focus on scalp regeneration—something that might be deprioritized postpartum.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
If your hair shedding continues beyond 12 months postpartum, becomes patchy, or is accompanied by symptoms like an itchy scalp, flaking, or changes in hair texture, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. Conditions like androgenetic alopecia, thyroid imbalance, or chronic postpartum telogen effluvium may require more targeted support.
Final Thoughts
Postpartum hair loss can be disheartening, but it’s entirely normal. It’s your body’s way of readjusting after months of hormonal change. The good news? With time, patience, and a little natural care, your hair will likely return to its pre-pregnancy fullness.
Support your journey with science-backed products, balanced nutrition, and low-stress habits. And if you’re looking for a safe, effective hair care routine tailored for sensitive, recovering scalps, explore the Dr. Su Hair Care Collection to begin your gentle restoration.