Even though giving birth to a child is exciting, a woman's body may experience some unexpected changes. After giving birth, postpartum hair loss is a typical issue many women experience. Hormonal changes bring on this particular type of hair loss, usually starting several months after delivery. A woman's body creates a lot of estrogens during pregnancy, which keeps her hair growing and helps her develop a fuller, thicker head. However, these hormone levels fall following delivery, causing the hair to enter the flaking period leading to hair loss.
Hair loss is among the most prevalent and distressing changes after giving birth. This condition can make new mothers feel insecure and uncertain about managing their hair shedding. This piece will discuss postpartum hair loss, what you should know, and how Advanced Hair Studio can help.
How Common Is Postpartum Hair Loss?
After giving birth, postpartum hair loss is a normal condition many women experience. Up to 50% of new moms experience shedding in the initial few months postpartum.
Postpartum hair loss can happen for many causes. The body's hormonal changes are one of the major causes. Pregnancy causes the body to produce more hormones, which keeps the hair in its growing phase. After delivery, estrogen levels drop, causing the hair to enter the shedding phase.
- Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to postpartum hair loss and hormonal shifts. For instance, hair loss can be caused by biotin or iron deficiency.
- Stress and lack of sleep can also make postpartum hair loss worse. New mothers frequently experience stress and sleep deprivation, and these circumstances can result in hair loss.
- Postpartum hair loss may also be influenced by depression and stress. Cortisol levels may be higher in newly melancholy women, which could result in hair loss.
After giving birth, hair loss affects a lot of women. Although it can be upsetting, it typically only lasts a few months before going away. Speaking with a hair loss specialist if you're worried about postpartum hair loss is important.
Stages of Hair Growth Cycle
The three major phases of the hair growth cycle include:- Anagen The hair follicle's active growth period is known as the anagen phase. The hair follicle produces hair during this stage, and the shaft lengthens in this period. Depending on where hair grows, the anagen period lasts a different time. Eyelash hair only lasts a few weeks, whereas the anagen phase of head hair can last several years.
- Catagen There is a transitional phase called catagen between the telogen and anagen stages. The dermal papilla feeds the hair follicle with nutrients and starts to constrict and separate from the hair follicle during this stage. The hair shaft also stops developing at this point.
- Telogen The resting stage in the hair growth cycle is known as the telogen period. The hair follicle is dormant, and the shaft is not developed. The dermal papilla is not connected to the hair, which is fixed in the follicle. The hair follicle will enter the anagen phase, where a new hair shaft will develop.
Difference between Normal and Excess Hair Fall
A normal human scalp has approximately 100,000 hair follicles, all at various different stages of the hair growth cycle at different times. Variables like hair color, thickness, and density can affect the number of hairs. The genetics and ethnic heritage of a person can also affect the thickness and density of their hair, but normally about 90% of the hair follicles will be in the growth phase, and about 10% with be in the resting phase at any given time.- The cycle of hair development includes normal hair fall as a natural process. The head typically loses between 80 and 150 hairs per day. As hairs reach the end of the Anagen phase, these hairs shed and go into the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle.
- On the other hand, excessive hair fall occurs when hair loss outpaces the rate of hair regrowth. Over time, this may cause a discernible decline in hair volume and density.
- A frequent reason for excessive hair loss is telogen effluvium, in which the body experiences a sudden shock or stress that prompts many hairs to enter the telogen phase and shed all at once.
- It's important to remember that what one person may deem normal hair loss may not be the same for another. Variables like age, gender, genetics, and way of living can all affect how much hair falls out.
Hair loss is bothersome, and instead of stressing out about how to fix the issue, visit a professional at the AHS clinic for an Advanced Hair Check, so the expert can help you diagnose and figure out a suitable solution.
How Can Postpartum Hair Loss Be Prevented?
Postpartum hair loss is a common worry for new mothers despite being a normal part of the postpartum time, and it can still be upsetting. While breastfeeding mothers are not likely to receive extensive medical therapy for postpartum hair loss, some options remain after it ends. A few of the hair loss therapies we provide at Advanced Hair Studio include:
- Platelets-Rich Plasma (PRP) Before being injected into the scalp, a tiny amount of the patient's blood is processed to concentrate the platelets in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) hair treatment. Development factors derived from platelets may promote hair development and enhance hair texture. PRP is a slightly invasive procedure that may significantly help promote hair growth.
- Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Light energy is used by low-level laser treatment (LLLT), a non-invasive method, to stimulate hair follicles and encourage growth. The light energy penetrates the scalp, stimulating blood flow toward the hair follicles and promoting new, healthy hair development. LLLT is risk-free and harmless, making it suitable for use alone or with other hair loss treatments.
- Minoxidil Minoxidil is a topical medication applied directly to the scalp to promote hair development. It extends the hair cycle's growth period and increases blood flow to the hair follicles. Men and women can use minoxidil because it is an over-the-counter medication.
Not everyone may profit from these therapies, despite the possibility of their success. However, you must consult a hair doctor before beginning hair treatments, particularly if you are breastfeeding. A trichologist can assist you in weighing the advantages and disadvantages of your various treatment options.
How to improve the Situation?
Postpartum hair loss can be managed through lifestyle changes, including nutritional modifications and stress management techniques. The tips that follow can help new mothers prevent postpartum hair loss:
- Supplements Supplements with biotin, iron, and vitamin D can encourage healthy hair development. Biotin, or vitamin B7, is essential for good hair growth. Ensure you get enough vitamin D because it has been linked to hair loss.
- A healthy Balanced Diet A diet rich in iron, protein, and vitamins can encourage healthy hair development. Eggs, nuts, leafy veggies, and lean meats are rich sources of these nutrients.
- Managing Stress It's essential to practice stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises because stress can cause hair loss. These methods can aid in lowering tension levels and encouraging general relaxation.
- Drinking Plenty of Water It's important to stay hydrated to encourage healthy hair development. Consuming water can hydrate the skin and encourage the development of strong, healthy hair.
It's crucial to realize that postpartum hair loss impacts many new mothers frequently and is natural and that many contributing factors are beyond our control. However, excessive worry about hair loss can make it worse. Because anxiety causes hair loss, controlling stress levels through relaxation techniques and self-care is essential. A wholesome, balanced diet can encourage strong hair development and general well-being. While new mothers may be concerned about postpartum hair loss, stress management, and a healthy lifestyle can help lessen the effects and encourage healthy hair growth.