Postpartum Hair Loss is probably one of the hardest things any new mom can experience! Not all moms experience it, but those that do may be alarmed and stressed trying to cope with it. Remember mommies, you cannot prevent it, but you can try to slow it down as much as possible! This “excessive hair shedding” is natural after giving birth as it is a result of falling estrogen levels. The only thing that gives you hope is to know that you’re not alone! To know that you’re not the first or the last to experience this! To know that it’s not forever and it eventually ends! Finally, to know that you can lean on another mommy’s experience and support to feel better.
*Disclaimer* Please check with your doctor before using any product(s) listed. This blog post represents a personal experience and by no means is meant to convince or promote a specific products. ALWAYS consult with your doctor before trying any new product
For me, the hair loss didn’t happen right away, it snuck up on me four months after giving birth. It started out with me losing some in the shower, some more when brushing, until I ended up with massive amounts of hairs falling without even touching my head. My hair started thinning and I had no idea that it could be related to postpartum. I knew then that I had to do something, so I consulted my dermatologist. Here is my before pictures:
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
The good news is that postpartum hair loss is not forever! For many moms it peaks at four months; thats when women start to notice excessive shedding of hair. But there is a light at the end of the tunnel. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, women can expect to regain their hair by the baby’s first birthday, if not sooner. In this article, the AAD offers dermatologist tips for women who are experiencing the postpartum hair loss.
Postpartum Hair Treatment That Worked For Me
After initially examining me and listening to my concerns, my dermatologist ordered blood work to review before making any recommendations. I was hoping that he can draw some conclusions and help save what’s left of my hair. After he examined my hair and reviewed my blood work, he recommended that I start using Rogaine. This is mouse-like medication that you apply once daily to the areas affected. According to my doctor and the instructions on the medication, you can expect to see progress after 2-3 months of use.
Thankfully for me, after using Rogaine for just 1 week, I was able to notice an evident difference, which leads me to believe that this product really works. Here are my progress pictures after using Rogaine for 1 week:
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It may not be a quick recovery, as I hoped it would be, however, it’s a step in the right direction! Another great thing about this product is that up until recently, patients needed a prescription from their doctor in order to buy the medication, however, this has changed. Rogaine is now available over the counter at all drug stores as well as Amazon.
Additional Remedies and Treatments for Postpartum Hair Loss
While Rogaine has been very effective in treating my postpartum hair loss, it is not the only remedy available on the market. I would recommend that you check out this post, for alternative remedies that can help restore your hair such as maintaining a healthy diet and reducing stress. Other experts from Simply Well Family recommend vitamins and minerals that can aide in your postpartum hair loss. In this post they discuss in depth the specific vitamins you need to take as well as their benefits.
Whether you decide to use Rogaine, or take supplements or use a volumizing shampoo it’s important to be patient and gentle with yourself, who knows, this could be the remedy your hair needed all along!
Written by: Uostena Botros
Edited by: Mariham Hanna
Thank you for sharing! Postpartum hair loss was the worst! I still think my hair could use a little help so maybe I’ll give Rogaine a shot!
I thought Rogaine only kept your hair in while you were using it, the second you stop using it, doesn’t it fall out again because that is the only thing keeping it in?
Hi cookingwithtyanne, thank you for taking the time to comment. As mentioned in the post, this is merely the experience of a mom who was advised by her dermatologist to use Rogaine. She has seen results using the product but please do your own research and consult with your doctor before trying any new product(s). Thank you 🙂