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Dealing With Hair Loss After Pregnancy
by Jane Meggitt
You’re doting on your little bundle of joy, but post-pregnancy hair loss has you worrying you and your newborn may soon sport similar scalps. Don’t despair. Post-pregnancy hair loss is temporary, and your tresses will soon grow back. In the meantime, the right hair style can disguise hair loss and make you feel better about yourself as you adjust to becoming a mom.
Post-pregnancy Hair Loss
When you’re pregnant, you’re estrogen levels soar. When people comment on a pregnant woman’s “glow,” it’s not imaginary. All that estrogen helps your skin and hair, with the latter displaying more volume than usual. Once you give birth, estrogen levels tumble, and higher levels of cortisol – the stress hormone – after birth causes hair to shed. Within about two months of giving birth, many women lose up to one-third of their hair. That hair does grow back, but it tends to return in a thinner, finer version. The hair loss tends to concentrate around the temples and hairline.
A New Look
Hair stylists recommend several do’s and don’ts for new mothers dealing with hair loss. Avoid pulling the hair back into a ponytail or up into a bun. Tight styles put tension on hairs and can actually accelerate hair loss. Your stylist may suggest wearing the hair forward to disguise a receding hairline, or bangs and a fringe to further deceive the eye. A cut that frames your face may also hide hair loss. If you have long hair, the hair loss is probably more obvious. Consider a short, easy-care cut. As a new mom, tending to long locks is now a luxury. You also don’t want long hair strands twisting around your baby’s fingers and toes. That does happen, and is known as a “hair tourniquet.” Ouch.
Hair Care
During this period, your basic hair care may change. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo a few times a week, and massage your scalp while in the shower. Massaging helps with stress reduction for both your hair and scalp. You may want to use mousse to give your thinner hair more volume, or experiment with hair thickeners.
Diet and Supplements
A change in your diet and taking certain supplements can help to boost hair regrowth. Eat foods with plenty of protein, including eggs, kale and red meats. A biotin supplement also aids hair – and nail – growth. By the time your little one celebrates his or her first birthday, your hair should be back to normal.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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