Hair loss and lactation

It is normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day, but in the first 3 months after the birth of the baby, the amount of hair loss is much more excessive. So this phenomenon is a myth that is blamed on breastfeeding.

Causes of hair loss during lactation

It is natural for hair to fall out. In fact, it is part of the natural hair cycle. Growth lasts between 2 and 3 years and is asynchronous, which means that not all hair grows equally and does not fall out at the same time.

During the cycle, 90 % of the hair is growing and between 10 % and 15 % is in a resting phase. This resting hair falls out and new hair begins to grow.

So it is normal for hair to fall out. However, during pregnancy and postpartum there is a disruption in the normal cycle. Hormones secreted by the body during pregnancy produce accelerated hair growth, causing less hair loss.

In the postpartum period, what will happen is that the hair that did not fall out during pregnancy will be lost. This phenomenon, known in medicine as telogen effluviumis normal and reversible.

Tips to minimize hair loss during breastfeeding

Although you can't stop hair loss during lactation because it is a normal process, you can minimize it by following some natural tricks to take care of your hair during this period of time.

1. Consume vitamin B

Vitamin B6 is a great ally of hair. In fact, according to Palafox Virgil, it was demonstrated that oral administration of vitamin B6 improves the condition of hair loss.. However, it is up to the specialist to prescribe this type of supplements.

Recall that vitamin B is a group comprising vitamin B1 (known as vitamin B2) and vitamin B3 (known as vitamin B3). thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), B5 known as pantothenic acid, B6 (pyridoxine) and B7 or biotin. B9 is folic acid and B12 is cobalamin.

B6, B7 and B12 are the most widely recognized for hair care.. However, all of them play fundamental roles in the body, such as obtaining energy from food.

These nutrients may already be included in your postpartum recovery plan, so be sure to consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

Reducing stress

Taking steps to reduce your stress levels also helps you regulate hormonal imbalances.

Practice different relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation or breathing exercises. Make time for regular light to moderate exercise, which can also help reduce stress. If you are feeling overwhelmed, ask friends or loved ones to help you take care of the baby or do household chores.

Although postpartum hair loss is stressful, it is a completely normal symptom of the change in your hormones after childbirth. However, one of the postpartum symptoms you shouldn't neglect is depression. Be sure to talk to your loved ones or your doctor if you are feeling very anxious, angry or overwhelmed during the weeks and months following childbirth.

Change your hairstyle

You may have heard the cliché of the "mom haircut": a shorter hairstyle that many new mothers choose after their baby is born. While many women choose this "mom" hairstyle for practical reasons, this shorter style can also help you reduce the appearance of postpartum hair loss. 

Regardless of your hair length, change the way you style your hair to reduce the abuse you subject your hair to. Reduce heavy brushing to avoid pulling your hair out or splitting the ends, and try not to forcibly stretch your hair with hairstyles such as ponytails, African-style braids or hair extensions. 

Modify your hair care routine

It is possible that modifying your hair care routine can help further reduce hair loss. Try using a postpartum hair loss shampoo that is enriched with biotin and silica, and a deep moisturizing conditioner.

Hair is more fragile when it is wet, so brush gently after washing your hair or wait for it to dry. Choose the cool air setting on your hair dryer and avoid using hot rollers or flat irons to avoid further damage to your hair due to excessive heat. 

Your hair can also enjoy the benefits of other specialized products that a dermatologist can recommend, such as scalp sprays and hair masks.

Go natural

While you have postpartum hair loss, give your tresses freedom instead of trying to dye your hair or using harsh gels and sprays to fix it.

You can choose natural oils, which are said to help strengthen hair growth and reduce or stop hair loss:

• You can add a few drops of peppermint oil in your shampoo to help moisturize your hair and improve its shine.
• Eat fish or flaxseed oil. This can help you regain the optimal concentration of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, which contribute to healthy hair.
• You can try massaging almond oil or castor oil into your scalp to stimulate hair growth.

Be patient

Hair loss can be a postpartum symptom that causes alarm and distress in many women, but as the old saying goes: this too shall pass!

In a nutshell

Usually the hair loss will correct itself as hormone levels return to normal. Try not to worry about this temporary hair loss and accept that it is just a normal part of recovery from childbirth.