Postpartum hair loss can be a frustrating and overwhelming experience for new mothers. With a new baby, lack of sleep and endless diaper changes, you have enough on your plate. Now you have to deal with hair falling out? Don't fret, dear mama, we're here to help you navigate the crazy world of postpartum hair!
First things first, let's talk about the hair life cycle. It's like the circle of life, but with hair, made up of four stages: growth, transition, rest, and shedding.
- There's the growth phase, where your hair is all "Hakuna Matata" and just living its best life. This is where your hair is actively growing and lasts 2-3 years.
- Then there's the transition phase, where your hair is like "Wait, what's happening? Why am I detaching from my blood supply?". This phase lasts for about 2-3 weeks.
- Followed by the rest phase, where your hair is all "I need a nap". It’s not actively growing and is preparing to shed. This phase lasts for about 3 months.
- Finally, the shedding phase, where your hair is like "Peace out, I'm outta here” and falls out.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes stimulate an increase in hair growth due to soaring oestrogen and progesterone levels. These growing hairs are influenced to stay within their growing phase longer than they would normally, resulting in thicker, more luscious hair.
However, once the hormones settle after birth, all the hairs that stayed in their prolonged growth phase suddenly transition to the shedding phase and hair loss occurs. As hair starts to grow back, these new ‘baby hairs’ are short, frizzy and less pigmented, which can make them appear fluffier and more unruly.
But don't worry, this is completely normal and these frizzy baby hairs will eventually blend in with your existing hair!
The good news is, there are some simple things you can do to help your hair get back to its pre-baby glory. Eating a nutritious diet full of vitamins and minerals that are good for your hair, like iron, biotin, and vitamin C, can make a huge difference. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for overall health and can help reduce stress, which can negatively impact hair growth.
When it comes to your hair care routine, go easy on the heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons, and let your hair air dry or gently towel dry instead. Using a gentle shampoo and conditioner like the StayX Hydrating Duo can help keep your hair nourished and hydrated. Or try the StayX Hair Perfecting Wand to give you a sleek finish to your mum bun.
Mamas, embrace the hair cycle. Treat yourself (and your hair) with some extra love and kindness, give it some time, and soon enough, you'll be rockin' a head full of healthy locks again! 💁♀️
And if you are concerned about your hair loss, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of a hair expert or a trichologist.
