Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens & What You Can Do
You’ve made it through pregnancy and birth - your body has done something truly EXTRAORDINARY.
But just as you’re settling into life with your new baby, you notice it - clumps of hair in the shower, strands on your pillow, a thinning hairline...
Postnatal hair loss is incredibly common, yet it often catches new mums by surprise. The good news? It’s completely normal - and temporary. Here’s everything you need to know about why it happens, when to expect it, and how to look after your hair (and yourself) during this phase of recovery.
Why Does Postnatal Hair Loss Happen?
During pregnancy, many women notice their hair becoming thicker and shinier - a welcome side-effect of higher oestrogen levels. This hormone prolongs the hair’s growth phase, meaning fewer strands fall out than usual. One of pregnancy’s lovelier perks!
After giving birth, however, hormone levels drop rapidly - particularly oestrogen - and all that extra hair your body was holding onto starts to shed. This is known as telogen effluvium, a temporary hair loss caused by major hormonal changes, stress, or physical upheaval.
It usually starts around 2 to 4 months after birth and tends to peak between 4 to 6 months. For most mums, things begin to improve by baby’s first birthday.
How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?
On average, people lose 50 to 100 hairs a day. After birth, that number can jump to up to 300 hairs daily. It can feel dramatic, but it’s usually just your body catching up after months of hardly shedding at all. You might notice:
- More hair in the shower drain or on your hairbrush
- Thinning at the temples or along the hairline
- Overall reduced volume
- A more visible scalp in certain areas
If your hair loss seems excessive, patchy, or is accompanied by symptoms like fatigue or brittle nails, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP to rule out thyroid problems or nutrient deficiencies.
What You Can Do About It
While you can’t completely stop postnatal hair loss, you can support healthy regrowth and minimise breakage:
- Be Gentle with Your Hair: Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh brushing, or heat styling. Let your hair air-dry when possible, and use a detangling brush that is gentle on your hair.
- Use Nourishing Hair Products: Choose shampoos and conditioners free from sulphates, and opt for ones with strengthening, moisturising ingredients like biotin, keratin, or argan oil. Volumising products can help hair appear thicker.
- Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet: Protein, iron, zinc and vitamins A, C, D and E are all essential for hair health. Keep taking your postnatal supplements, particularly if you’re breastfeeding.
- Consider a New Haircut: A fresh trim or style can make a big difference - not just to how your hair looks, but how you feel. Layers or a fringe can help disguise thinner areas.
- Manage Stress: We know it’s easier said than done with a newborn, but stress can contribute to hair loss. Short daily breaks, gentle movement, breathing exercises, or simply asking for help can make a world of difference.
- Avoid Comparison: Everyone’s experience is different. Some mums hardly notice any shedding, while others feel like they’ve lost half their hair volume. Your body is doing important healing work - trust it.
When to Seek Help
If your hair loss continues well beyond 12 months postpartum, or if you notice bald patches, scabbing, or inflammation, it’s worth speaking with your GP or a dermatologist. Sometimes conditions like anaemia or thyroid imbalance may be the cause.
Postnatal hair loss is one of those lesser-talked-about parts of motherhood. It’s simply your body rebalancing after a HUGE, beautiful transformation. This phase - like so many in motherhood - is temporary. Your hair will grow back, (often starting with a funky, fluffy fringe - oh well!). In the meantime, be kind to your hair, your body, and your expectations.
You’ve done something remarkable. Now it’s your turn to feel supported, cared for, and confident - whatever your hair looks like today.
