Postpartum Hair Changes? Read This

18 March, 2025

Motherhood is a beautiful and transformative journey. As your body (and life) adapts to the cascade of changes, so does your hair!

It’s completely normal to notice changes in texture, thickness, or even shedding in the months after childbirth. While this can feel unsettling, know that these changes are to be expected and your body will adjust in time. Armed with the right nourishment and targeted support, you can support your body and restore the thick, healthy hair of your dreams.

So, why does your hair change so much after having a baby?

The Science Behind Postpartum Hair Changes

During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels extend the hair’s growth phase (anagen), leading to luscious locks. You may have noticed new baby hairs growing, thicker hair, or fast growth. However, after giving birth, these hormone levels drop significantly, triggering more strands to shift into the shedding phase (telogen), which typically peaks around three to six months postpartum. This process, known as postpartum hair shedding, is temporary but it can be alarming! For some, the natural growth phase may restore to normal within 12 months; however, every individual’s postpartum nutrient and recovery requirements are different. In the meantime, there are many ways you can support yourself.

The Importance of Scalp Health during Postpartum

Scalp health is the foundation of strong, healthy hair, especially postpartum when hormonal shifts can trigger increased shedding or changes to hair strength.

A well-nourished scalp supports hair follicles, promoting regrowth, hair strand thickness, and minimizing hair loss. Factors like blood circulation, hydration, and the health of the scalp’s delicate microbiome all play a role in creating the ideal environment for new hair to thrive.

The below tips can help to restore balance and encourage fuller, healthier hair:

  • Scalp massage: Gently massaging the scalp for a few minutes daily helps to improve blood circulation, which can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your scalp (and entire body) hydrated. Dryness can lead to flakiness, irritation, or an imbalanced scalp microbiome.

  • Use a scalp serum: Our Vita-Growth Scalp Serum is formulated with 7 clinically backed actives that have been tested for efficacy to deliver powerful, measurable results. The proof is in the science:

    • Capilia Longa™ - Reduces hair loss by up to 89%*

    • Baicapil™ - Increases hair density by up to 59%*

    • Capixyl™ - Stimulates hair growth by 35%*

    • Hairiline™ - Rebalances scalp microbiome*

  • Avoid heat styling: Minimize the use of hairdryers, straighteners, or curlers, which can dry out the scalp and hair, leading to breakage and thinning.

  • Protective hairstyles: Wearing loose, protective hairstyles can prevent hair breakage and scalp irritation, especially if you’re dealing with postpartum hair shedding.

Nutrients to Support Hair + Scalp Health

Restoring your thickest, fullest hair starts from within. In your postpartum phase, look to add in an abundance of diverse whole foods to nurture your entire body to thrive.

Look to add these key nutrients in:

  • Zinc: Essential for hair follicle function and growth, zinc helps prevent excessive shedding and supports scalp health.

  • Iodine: Crucial for thyroid health, which regulates hair growth cycles and prevents thinning.

  • Iron: Low iron levels can contribute to hair loss, as iron helps deliver oxygen to the scalp and follicles.

  • B Vitamins: Biotin, niacin, and B12 play a key role in energy production for hair cells and encourage strong, healthy strands.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats help nourish the scalp, reduce inflammation, and support hydration.

  • Protein: Hair is made of keratin, a protein that relies on amino acids from collagen and dietary protein for strength and resilience. Where needed, you can look to supplement these with quality forms.

  • Supplementation: Look to include a targeted, science-focused ingestible hair formula with zinc and iodine, as guided by your health professional.

*Capilia Longa™ results from combing test over 4 month period, compared to placebo. Baicapil™ results from microphotographies of scalp after 3 months of application. Capixyl™ results from an ex-vivo model after 8 days of treatment compared to untreated follicles. Hairiline® results from a clinical in-vivo study.