Hair Loss and Motherhood
Many new moms are surprised to be shedding more hair than usual in the first few months after giving birth, but it's perfectly normal. And there's no need to panic. This is normal — and not true hair loss. Dermatologists refer to this condition as excessive hair shedding. The excessive shedding is caused by falling estrogen levels.
The good news is that this excessive shedding is temporary, and you do not have to do anything to remedy it. Most women see their hair return to its normal fullness by their child’s first birthday. Many women regain normal fullness even earlier.
Tips for new mothers
If the excessive hair shedding bothers you, these tips can help until your hair regains its normal fullness.
Use a volumizing shampoo. These shampoos tend to contain ingredients like protein that coat the hair, making the hair appear fuller.
Avoid any shampoo labeled “conditioning shampoo.” These contain heavy conditioners that can weigh down the hair and make it look limp.
Use a conditioner formulated for fine hair. These contain lighter formulas that will not weigh down hair.
Use conditioner primarily on the ends of your hair. Applying conditioner to your scalp and all of your hair tends to weigh down hair.
Avoid conditioners labeled “intensive conditioners.” These are too heavy.
Another option is Try a new hairstyle. Some haircuts make hair look fuller. An experienced stylist can tell you what will work for you.
Beware of a hair tourniquet
New mothers also should watch out for hair tourniquets. A hair tourniquet forms when a strand of hair falls out and wraps around a baby’s toe, finger, or other body part. A single strand can wrap so tightly that it cuts off circulation or causes an infection.
So, Don’t panic. Knowing what to do, however, can be helpful.
If you see a shed hair wrapped around your baby finger, toe, or other body part, you must remove it. Here what you should do:
Look for a loose end and gently unwind the hair.
If you can't find a loose end, so you’ll need something to gently cut the hair, such as a scissors.
If you cannot remove the hair because it is wound too tightly or enmeshed in your baby’s skin, you need to get medical help.
Hair falls out for many reasons
Many new moms experience excessive hair shedding after pregnancy. Hair shedding usually peaks about four months after giving birth. By their child’s first birthday, most women regain their normal hair growth. If your hair does not regain its normal fullness after one year, you may want to see a dermatologist. Something else may be causing your hair to fall out and an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
For more information, kindly get an appointment at Dr Gauri’s Skin & Hair Clinic (702-464-3430).
