8 ways to counter hair fall postpartum
Worried about postpartum hair loss? Here are ways to counter it.
While postpartum depression is the most talked about problem after delivery, the other troubles are usually ignored as they don't need too much medical intervention. Postpartum hair loss is one such problem that many new mothers experience. Sometimes you may even have hair falling out in clumps after pregnancy. But don t fret. This is a normal phenomenon and it even has a scientific name Telogen Effluvium (postpartum hair loss). This condition occurs in around 50 percent of women after delivery. The good news is that this condition is not permanent. Within 12 months of childbirth, a woman recovers the natural thickness of her hair. Here are five things that happen to you after delivery that no one talks about.
Why does it happen?
During pregnancy, there is an increase in the level of the hormone estrogen in the body. This prevents the process of natural hair fall. This is also the reason why most women feel that their hair has grown in volume during pregnancy. Since the growth phase is prolonged, only fewer strands remain in the resting phase during which they shed. But after childbirth, the estrogen levels drop and a large number of strands move on to the resting phase. So there is an inordinate amount of hair loss. It is not possible to prevent the loss of hair after childbirth. However, there are several remedies that can be used to minimize hair loss. Here are six causes of excessive hair fall that you need to know.
Here are some easy and natural ways to prevent hair loss postpartum.
1. Postpartum vitamin supplements
According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), a woman who has just given birth should consume vitamin E, vitamin C, B-vitamins, zinc and biotin through her diet. These vitamins are also needed to reduce hair fall post pregnancy. But keep in mind that:
- A postpartum vitamin supplement should be taken along with a diet consisting of lots of fruits and vegetables.
- Before embarking on a vitamin supplementation program, one should consult the doctor to ensure that you don't inadvertently overdose.
2. Biotin supplement
Vitamin B-complex consists of biotin. This vitamin is especially important to reduce hair fall post pregnancy because it functions in the synthesis of hair proteins like keratin. Lack of biotin has been associated with hair breakage, hair loss and brittle nails. To include biotin for hair treatment post-pregnancy:
- Take 5 mg of biotin or B-complex supplementation postpartum to counter hair loss.
- Try using shampoos and conditioners fortified with biotin. However, there is no scientific proof of their efficacy.
3. Yeast hair mask
There is a reason why beer is considered good for hair. It contains yeast, which helps to counter postpartum hair loss. Here is why washing your hair with beer postpartum could help:
- Yeast present in the beer has folic acid, riboflavin and biotin all good nutrients for hair growth.
- It gives strength to hair and makes it shine.
- Also, a hair mask can be made with brewer s yeast to reduce hair fall post pregnancy. Here are five hair masks for dry hair.
4. He Shou Wu a Chinese herb
The consumption of the Chinese herb He Shou Wu, is recommended after pregnancy to reduce hair fall. Here is how it works:
- The herb contains zinc and has anti-inflammatory action.
- It is said that this herb can prevent greying hair.
5. Fenugreek or methi seeds hair mask
Fenugreek seeds contain protein and nicotinic acid which encourage the growth of hair. The presence of lecithin moisturizes hair and gives it strength. To use fenugreek to counter postpartum hair loss, follow these steps:
- Soak fenugreek seeds in a bowl overnight.
- Strain the liquid and use it to massage the scalp.
- Next, wrap your head with a towel for four hours.
- Wash your hair with shampoo and apply a conditioner as usual. Here are 15 other health benefits of fenugreek or methi you need to know.
6. Essential fatty acid supplementation
Essential fatty acids such as omega-3-fatty acids, omega-6-fatty acids and omega-9-fatty acids are necessary for healthy hair. Include more of flaxseed and fish oil in your diet as they are rich sources of these essential fatty acids. They also lower the levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol or bad cholesterol levels.
7. Almond oil massage
Almond oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E, which are necessary nutrients for healthy hair. Massaging hair with warm almond oil 2-3 times a day helps prevent further hair loss.
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid and omega-6-fatty acids that promote hair growth. Once a week, massage a mixture of warm castor oil and almond oil on the scalp. Castor oil can also be mixed with coconut oil for similar results.
For better hair health, a few tips will go a long way in reducing hair fall post pregnancy:
- Do not wash hair with hot water.
- Comb hair with a wide-toothed comb.
- Use a good quality mild shampoo to keep hair clean.
A little care, along with some home remedies, will prevent excessive hair fall post pregnancy. Gradually, you hair will return to its natural thickness.
Image source: Getty Images
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