Hair Loss After Pregnancy: What No One Warned You About (And How to Fix It!)

Oh, girl. You finally made it through pregnancy, labor, and those newborn nights that feel like they last a lifetime. And just when you think you're getting back to feeling a little more like yourself—BAM! Your hair starts falling out like crazy. Clumps in the shower, strands all over your pillow, and don’t even get me started on how your baby loves to grab onto what’s left of it.

First of all, let’s take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not going bald—I promise. Postpartum hair loss (also called telogen effluvium) is entirely normal, and it happens to A LOT of us. So, let’s talk about why it’s happening and, more importantly, how you can get that luscious mane back in full force.

Why Does Hair Loss Happen After Pregnancy?

Your hair’s been on a wild hormonal rollercoaster, just like the rest of your body. During pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep your hair in the “growth” phase longer than usual. This is why many mamas notice their hair is thicker and fuller while pregnant (yay!). But after birth, your hormones take a nosedive, and all that hair that’s been hanging on suddenly starts shedding all at once.

For most women, postpartum hair loss peaks around the 3-4 month mark, and things should settle down by the time your baby’s first birthday rolls around. But in the meantime, what can you do? Let’s get into it.

How to Reduce and Manage Postpartum Hair Loss

1. Check Your Nutrition

Your body just did something incredible, and now it needs all the right nutrients to recover. Focus on eating protein-rich foods, iron, biotin, and omega-3s to support hair regrowth. Think eggs, salmon, nuts, leafy greens, and drink lots of water. Sooooo much water! If you’re breastfeeding, you’re already losing extra nutrients, so make sure you take a good postpartum vitamin, too.

2. Be Gentle With Your Hair

Now is not the time for tight ponytails, harsh brushing, or excessive heat styling. Treat your hair like you would your newborn—super gently. Switch to a wide-toothed comb, use a microfiber or 100% cotton towel to dry your hair, and avoid hairstyles that pull at your scalp.

3. Use a Volumizing Shampoo & Scalp Treatment

A lightweight, volumizing shampoo can help give your hair some body while it’s going through this shedding phase. Also, don’t skip your at-home scalp treatments, including scalp massage, which will help stimulate hair follicles and promote growth.

4. Consider a Haircut

Sometimes, a good trim or fresh layers can make your hair look and feel fuller. Plus, it’s a great excuse for some much-needed self-care.

5. Massage Your Scalp

A few minutes of scalp massage daily can increase blood flow and encourage hair regrowth. You can even add a few drops of rosemary or peppermint essential oil to help boost circulation.

6. Be Patient (I Know, It’s Hard!)

Postpartum hair loss is temporary, even though it feels never-ending. Your hair will grow back, and in the meantime, lean into hairstyles that work with what you’ve got—like textured waves, messy buns, cute hats, or headbands for those awkward regrowth phases.

When Should You Worry?

If your hair loss seems excessive past the one-year mark, or if you’re noticing bald patches or thinning that doesn’t seem to be improving, it might be worth checking in with your doctor. Conditions like postpartum thyroid issues or nutrient deficiencies can sometimes be the culprit.

You’re Not Alone

I know it’s frustrating, but trust me—you are still gorgeous, even if your hairbrush is looking like it’s collecting a wig’s worth of hair every day. Be kind to yourself, nourish your body, and give your hair a little extra love. Before you know it, those little baby hairs will start popping up, reminding you that your hair is on its way back.

And until then? Rock what you got with confidence, because you’re a total powerhouse!

xoxo, Jazz