Call (866) 471-8869 for FREE Consultation
Actress Selma Blair Draws Attention to Post-Pregnancy Hair Loss
by Marisa Amorasak
Shortly after giving birth to her first child, actress Selma Blair was horrified to find that her hair was falling out. The ultra-thick and luxurious hair that so many women experience during pregnancy had given way to clumps of hair in her shower’s drain and massive tangles in her hairbrush.
“It just started falling out at the three-month mark,” Selma told People magazine. The 39 year old said that she had to take extra time out of her day just to collect the fallen hair.
Post-partum hair loss is quite different from the long mane typical of some pregnant women, who find that their hair grows thicker than ever while with child. Some believe that their hair also becomes shinier and healthier. The truth is, pregnancy doesn’t cause hair to grow any faster or thicker than before—it just slows the rate of hair fallout. Normally, about 90% of the hair is in the growth phase while the remaining 10% is in a resting stage. Once the resting stage has been completed, the hair naturally falls out through brushing, washing, or natural movement. The hormones in pregnancy stall the hair follicle’s ability to shed the hair, meaning more hair that would normally fall out of your scalp stays attached. The hormones can also change the texture of the hair, making curly hair straight and straight hair curly.
After birth, your hormones and hair growth cycle will resume. While it may appear as though an abnormal amount of hair is falling out, it’s just build-up from the pregnancy. The more dramatic buildup of hair you experience during pregnancy, the more you are likely to shed afterwards. So don’t be alarmed by large clumps of hair showing up around your living space—it’s quite normal, and a healthy sign that your body’s chemicals are returning back to your pre-pregnancy state.
“Generally, the first question we ask when women complain about this, is, ‘Are you complaining about it because of what you see in the shower or what you’re seeing on your head?’” said Dr. Donnica Moore, the president of health education and consulting firm Sapphire Women’s Health Group.
Your hair should return to its normal cycle in about six months after the birth of your child. After that period, if you notice thinning sections or bald patches, it’s appropriate to see your doctor. Major hair loss after pregnancy may suggest a nutrition deficiency that’s detrimental not only to your own health, but possibly your child’s if you are breastfeeding. It may also be a sign of female pattern baldness.
It’s unlikely that new mothers are experiencing permanent hair loss. But if you are, there are proven effective ways to permanently restore the hair you used to have. Contact our representatives today to learn more about hair restoration options like hair transplants laser hair restoration, and topical drugs like Rogaine. We’d be happy to book you a consultation with a hair loss specialist in your area who can best assess your needs.
Call 866-471-8869 for FREE Consultation
