As if out-of-whack hormones, sleepless nights and a screaming newborn aren’t enough, many new moms experience hair loss within 2 to 3 months after giving birth. Yes, that means mamas must say goodbye to that thick, shiny mane they sprouted during pregnancy. So what causes the hair fall? Typically, hair growth occurs in three stages: the anagen phase, which is the growth phase; the catagen phase, which is the transitional period that follows the anagen phase; and the telogen phase, or the resting stage when hair follicles fall out. Hair in the resting stage sheds every 2 to 3 months, but, since hair loss is delayed during pregnancy, all that hair that should have fallen out months before falls out around three months postpartum. The good news? The extreme hair loss is only temporary, and by adding just a few steps to your daily routine, you can find ways to manage the dreadful shedding. Follow these easy tips and be on your way to thick, healthy hair in no time!
Step 1: Resist the urge to throw your hair up in a bun everyday.
It’s no secret: New moms are lucky if they can squeeze in a shower, let alone style their hair. Although it may be tempting to throw your hair into a messy topknot, don’t! The baby hairs around your temples are extremely delicate and if they’re constantly pulled taut in a bun, the hair may fall out and leave you with thin, uneven or even with bald patches. Instead, loosely pull hair back in a low pony with a hair bungee or twist it up with a clip.
Step 2: Take those prenatals and eat clean.
If you’re breastfeeding, you may still be on the prenatal train to ensure your baby gets the nutrients he or she needs, but even if you’re following the formula route, take your prenatal vitamins daily as directed. Although it’s not proven that prenatals stimulate hair growth, they do provide nutrients like biotin, zinc and iron. Also, as difficult as it may be with a newborn, make sure you’re eating enough protein and green veggies to help get your hair back on track.
Step 3: Give your hair extra TLC.
Limit hot tool use to once or twice a week. Also, invest in quality products that protect thinning strands and stimulate hair growth, such as Spectral.CSF Hair Stimulating Treatment for Women, and make sure to treat tresses to a nourishing shampoo and conditioner (like Nia Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner) at least once a week.
Follow these tips daily to keep thinning strands at bay, and within a few months, your hair will be on the mend!
For even more hair care tips, be sure to stalk DS Labs on Bangstyle and follow them on Instagram @DSLabsGlobal for all their latest innovations!