Mastering Postpartum Hair Loss on Curly Hair

Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss​

Welcoming a new life into the world brings immense joy and fulfilment, but it can also bring unexpected changes to your body, including postpartum hair loss. For many new mothers, the experience of losing hair after giving birth can be distressing, especially if you have curly hair. Understanding why this happens and how to manage it is crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls during this phase of motherhood.

Causes of Postpartum Shedding​

Postpartum shedding, also known as telogen effluvium, is a common phenomenon experienced by many women after childbirth. During pregnancy, elevated hormone levels prolong the growth phase of hair, resulting in thicker, fuller locks. However, once hormone levels return to normal post-delivery, hair transitions into the shedding phase, causing increased hair fall.

Normal Amount of Hair Loss​

It's essential to recognise that some degree of hair shedding is normal after giving birth. On average, women lose about 100 to 150 hairs per day, but during postpartum, this number may increase temporarily. While it can be alarming to see more hair fall out than usual, rest assured that it is typically a temporary condition that resolves on its own.

Duration of Postpartum Shedding​

Postpartum shedding typically peaks around three to four months after childbirth but can last up to a year for some women. The duration and severity of shedding vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and overall health.

What Can You Do To Help?

1) Keep Curls Hydrated​

Curly hair tends to be drier and more prone to breakage, making hydration a critical aspect of postpartum hair care. Opt for moisturising shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for curly hair to help retain moisture and prevent excessive dryness. Consider incorporating leave-in conditioners or hair oils to provide an extra layer of hydration and protection.

2) Gentle Handling of Curls​

During postpartum shedding, it's essential to handle your curls with care to minimise breakage and prevent further damage. Avoid tight hairstyles that put tension on the hair follicles, such as tight ponytails or braids. Instead, opt for loose styles that allow your curls to move freely without causing unnecessary stress on the scalp.

3) Scalp Nourishment with Oil​

Massaging your scalp with nourishing oils can help stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth. Choose natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil and gently massage them into your scalp using circular motions. Not only does this provide much-needed nourishment to the hair follicles, but it also helps relax the mind and reduce stress.

4) Deep Conditioning Benefits​

Deep conditioning treatments can work wonders for curly hair, especially during postpartum shedding. Look for deep conditioning masks or treatments enriched with moisturising ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or avocado oil. Apply the treatment to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, and leave it on for the recommended duration to restore moisture and elasticity to your curls.

5) Avoiding Heat Styling​

Excessive heat styling can exacerbate postpartum hair loss and damage curly hair, leading to further breakage and dryness. Minimise the use of heat styling tools such as flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers, opting for heat-free styling methods instead. Embrace your natural curls and let them air dry whenever possible to minimise stress on your hair.

6) Stress Management for Hair Health​

Stress can also make postpartum shedding worse, so it's essential to prioritise stress management techniques to support overall hair health. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to promote a sense of calm and reduce stress levels. Additionally, make time for self-care activities that bring you joy and help you unwind.

Featured products:​

Inahsi Soothing Mint Gentle Cleansing Shampoo - 8oz​

A hair care product that provides gentle and effective cleansing. The shampoo is designed to moisturise your hair while cleaning your scalp without stripping it of its natural nutrients.

With the cooling sensation of mint, it invigorates your senses while stimulating the scalp, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The formula is carefully selected to help you achieve healthy, shiny hair that looks and feels great.

Inahsi Soothing Mint Moisturizing Conditioner - 8oz​

The perfect hair care solution enriched with all the necessary nutrients. It moisturises, strengthens, and leaves your hair feeling soft. The cooling sensation of mint not only invigorates the senses but also stimulates the scalp to promote overall healthy hair.

Eden Bodyworks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner - 16oz​

Eden Bodyworks Jojoba Monoi Deep Conditioner is a top choice for hair repair, enriched with Coconut, Jojoba & Monoi Oils. It restores moisture, strengthens strands, and suits all hair types, including colour-treated.

Vegan-friendly and chemical-free, it's perfect for revitalising dry, damaged hair, balancing moisture, and revealing natural beauty.

Curl Flo Deep Conditioner Treatment - 250ml

An ultra moisturising, deep conditioning treatment which is protein free and absorbs in your strands to protect your curls. Achieve soft, silky and defined curls with this natural deep conditioner.

The formula is packed with the goodness of Mango Butter to drench your strands with moisture, while Rosemary & Lemongrass Oils work their magic to keep your hair healthy and vibrant.

KeraCare Leave-In Conditioner - 4oz​

KeraCare Leave-In Conditioner nourishes and hydrates hair, combating frizz and tangles for smoother, defined curls. Its natural ingredients and UV protection promote healthier, more manageable locks. Ideal for blow drying, it prevents breakage, leaving hair soft, lustrous, and beautifully moisturised.

Curl Flo Leave In Conditioner - 300ml​

Curl Flo Leave In Conditioner, infused with marshmallow root extract for superior slip and frizz control, perfect for extra moisture and manageability pre-styling. Formulated for coily, curly, and wavy hair, it soothes and nourishes the scalp with organic lemongrass oil, abundant in Vitamin B, strengthens follicles for healthier hair.

Sofn'Free For Natural Hair Manuka Honey and Avocado Hair & Scalp Oil - 100ml​

The nutrient-rich formula is dedicated to boosting the health of your scalp and hair. Crafted with the finest ingredients, including the nourishing properties of Manuka Honey and Avocado, this formulation is designed to revitalise your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

KeraCare Thermal Wonder 6 In 1 Thermal Protector - 4oz​

Keracare Thermal Wonder 6 In 1 Thermal Protector helps seal-in, protect and straighten your hair. It is a versatile solution that contains a host of botanical extracts, effectively hydrating your hair. It detangles your hair and makes your hair frizz-free thereby, reducing breakage and hair fall.

As I Am So Much Moisture Hydrating Lotion - 237m

As I Am So Much Moisture Hydrating Lotion provides essential nourishment, improving hair moisture and health. It eliminates frizz, treats split ends, and leaves hair smooth and protein-rich. This deep hydrating lotion offers textured hair, combining nutrition and style seamlessly.

Conclusion

Navigating postpartum hair loss can be challenging, but with the right care and attention, you can support healthy hair growth and maintain your curly locks.  By understanding the causes of postpartum shedding and implementing targeted hair care practices, you can support healthy hair growth and maintain vibrant curls during this transformative phase of motherhood.

Share these tips with fellow new moms to tackle postpartum hair loss and keep those curls flourishing!​

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