Your thick, shiny pregnancy locks are not mere imagination. Most women find that pregnancy makes their hair grow thicker and faster. And it’s not the stress of having a newborn baby that causes hair to fall out for many new mothers! Here we're addressing some frequently asked questions about pregnancy hair, what you can expect postpartum, and what you can do about it.
How do hormones change during pregnancy and postpartum?
During pregnancy, our hormones change dramatically. The human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG—the hormone your pregnancy test measured to indicate pregnancy) spikes, along with several others like your blood volume, estrogen, progesterone, oxytocin, and prolactin. The spike in hormones prevents the usual rate of hair loss and aids in faster and better hair growth. Yay!
Immediately after childbirth, several of those hormones drop, followed by a gradual drop in blood volume. This results in your hair falling out in much bigger clumps than it normally does. However, that doesn't mean it's time to panic. The total volume of your hair loss probably isn't far off from what you would have lost over the last nine months (it might just seem that way because it's all happening at once).
Can I use heat styling tools while going through postpartum hair loss?
Using heat tools such as dryers or curling irons can make hair look even thinner. We suggest taking a break from that fancy styling to give your hair some time for the thinning phase to taper out.Another tip is to be more gentle when brushing your hair.
Is there a specific diet I have to follow for better hair post-childbirth?
It is crucial to make sure the body is getting all the nutrients it needs. So load up on fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats to ensure all of your needs are being met. Our favorite hair-boosting foods include those rich in iron, vitamins E, C, and D, omega-3s, magnesium, and beta carotene.
Do I need to take supplements to aid hair growth?
A well-balanced diet is important to improve and maintain a healthy set of locks. We're all about nourishing your hair from the inside and out! So, in addition to maintaining a healthy diet, we recommend using a nutrient-dense treatment on your hair and scalp (the scalp plays an important role in better hair growth).
What is the best haircare to use when experiencing postpartum hair loss?
Haircare rich in nutrients and free of additive chemicals is the best option, especially if you're breastfeeding. It is important to ensure that your hair and scalp are getting the essential nutrients in order to. At the same time, avoid chemicals such as parabens, silicones, and sulfates, which can be harmful to your hair and your health.
Is Act+Acre safe to use during and after pregnancy?
Definitely! We crafted a range of clean hair and scalp products so everyone can embark on their hair wellness journey—no matter where you are in life. Our patented Cold Processed® method ensures that our clean formulations are rich in nutrients and other safe plant-based ingredients.
