Postpartum hair loss: practical steps to manage and recover fully

Acknowledging what you're going through

If you're noticing more hair in your brush after welcoming a little one into your life, you're not alone. Postpartum hair loss is a common experience for many new moms, and it can feel surprising, noisy, and even scary when you’re already juggling feeding, sleep, and a new routine. The good news is that this phase is usually temporary, and with a few practical steps—plus a little patience—your hair can regain its previous fullness over time.

Postpartum hair loss happens because your body is making big hormonal shifts after pregnancy. Those hormones that helped your hair stay in a growing phase during pregnancy begin to shift back, and you shed what you didn’t shed while pregnant. The process typically peaks in the first three to six months after birth but can continue a bit longer for some people. The exact timeline varies from person to person, and many find that their hair slowly returns to its normal thickness within 12–24 months. If you’re breastfeeding, your hormone levels may influence the pace, but you aren’t alone in this journey—and there are things you can do to feel more in control.

If you’re also dealing with sleep deprivation, stress, and the emotional rollercoaster of new parenthood, the added worry about thinning hair can feel heavy. It’s okay to acknowledge those feelings. You’re doing a lot, and small, steady steps can make a real difference. You deserve support, realistic expectations, and hope that your hair can come back to its prior fullness with time and care.

If you’re looking for credible information alongside practical tips, you may also find useful insights in our posts about other hair-loss topics such as What causes hair thinning in women: hormones, symptoms, and fixes and Postpartum hair loss: does it grow back after pregnancy and nursing?. For more science-backed context, explore our internal resources like How It Works and Science.

What you’re likely dealing with right now

• A temporary increase in shedding as hormones rebalance
• Fluctuations in hair density, especially around the crown or temples
• The emotional impact of seeing more hair in brushes and in drains
• A strong desire for practical steps that feel doable amid the busy days of new motherhood

Understanding these feelings helps you feel less alone. Now, let’s focus on what you can do in the next weeks and months to support your hair and your well-being.

What causes postpartum hair loss and what it means for you

The hormones that protected your hair during pregnancy drop back to pre-pregnancy levels after birth. This can trigger shedding that’s more noticeable than usual. The good news is that this shedding isn’t typically permanent damage—it’s part of a natural reset. With time, most people see their hair regrow to its previous thickness.

You may also notice that your hair’s texture or thickness feels different for a while. Scalp care, gentle handling, and consistent routines can help your hair recover its strength while you adjust to your new normal as a caregiver.

If you’ve experienced hair loss after illness or after a significant life change, you might find some of the same strategies helpful. For example, post-illness recovery strategies and daily habits that support hair health are covered in our related posts, so you can tailor approaches to your current situation.

For more context from trusted sources, you can read about postpartum hair loss and general hair loss information from reputable organizations: Mayo Clinic offers overview information on hair loss and its causes, AAD provides guidance on different types of hair loss in women, and NIAMS (NIH) covers fundamentals of hair loss and regrowth. These sources can help you feel informed as you navigate your own journey:

• Mayo Clinic: Hair loss – causes, symptoms, and when to seek help
• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Women and hair loss – practical distinctions and options
• NIH NIAMS: Hair loss – fundamentals and recovery considerations

How to support recovery: practical steps you can take now

Managing postpartum hair loss is about gentle care, steady routines, and hopeful expectations. Here are practical steps you can start today. They’re designed to be doable alongside caring for a newborn and without requiring overhaul of your entire day.

1) Be gentle with your hair

• Switch to a mild, nourishing shampoo and a conditioner that’s designed for daily use. Look for sulfate-free formulas that won’t strip moisture.
• Use a wide-tooth comb or a soft brush, especially when your hair is wet.
• Avoid tight ponytails, braids, or heat-heavy styling that can pull on the roots or create more breakage.
• Give your hair a break from coloring or chemical treatments in the first year after birth if possible.

2) Support your scalp and strands

• Gentle scalp massages can help stimulate circulation and comfort. A few minutes daily can be a small but meaningful habit.
• If you like scalp oils, choose lightweight formulas and apply sparingly to avoid buildup. Some people find scalp serums especially soothing, but always patch-test first.
• Consider a targeted hair regrowth approach as part of a broader routine. If you’re curious how these options work, you can explore How It Works to understand the idea behind serums and active ingredients.

3) Prioritize nutrients and overall health

• Continue with a prenatal or postnatal multivitamin as advised by your clinician, especially for iron, vitamin D, and B-vitamins, which can influence hair health.
• Focus on protein-rich foods, since hair is made from protein. Examples include lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy or fortified alternatives.
• Iron and ferritin levels are particularly important for hair health. If you’ve had heavy postpartum bleeding or fatigue, talk to your healthcare provider about checking your iron status and whether a supplement is appropriate.
• Hydration matters, too. Water supports overall health and can influence how your hair feels from scalp to tip.

4) Tame stress and protect sleep quality

• Sleep is hard with a newborn, but small wins help: short, restful breaks when possible, or sharing duties with a partner or family member.
• Mindful moments—breathing exercises, gentle stretching, a warm shower—can ease stress and support your body’s healing process.
• Consider gentle movement or light exercise as you’re cleared by your healthcare team; physical activity can improve mood and energy, which indirectly benefits hair health.

5) Be mindful of hair color and styling choices

• If you color or heat-style, consider giving your hair a break for a few weeks after a wash. When you do color, choose gentler formulations and downtime after application to reduce stress on strands.
• Embrace low-effort hairstyles on busier days: loose buns, soft waves, or headbands can reduce visible thinning while you wait for regrowth.

6) Consider options for targeted support

Some people look to topical products or serums in addition to the daily care plan. A well-chosen serum can supplement a healthy routine and may support regrowth alongside the body’s natural rebound. If you’re curious, you can learn more about how these products work and what to expect by visiting [How It Works]. And if you’re ready to explore options more concretely, our Pricing page is a helpful next step: Pricing.

Reading tip: If you’re also dealing with a related concern, you might find our post on postpartum hair loss’s longer-term trajectory helpful: read "Postpartum hair loss: does it grow back after pregnancy and nursing?" for a closer look at timelines and expectations.

Realistic expectations and what to monitor

• Hair regrowth after postpartum is a gradual process. You might notice a period of shedding before you see new growth, which is a normal part of the cycle resetting.
• The pace of regrowth varies widely. Some people see improvement within several months; for others, it takes a year or more. Consistency matters, and small, sustainable steps win out over dramatic changes.
• If you notice sudden, patchy hair loss, or if you shed a lot more than usual, it’s wise to consult a clinician. Conditions like alopecia areata or thyroid issues can mimic postpartum shedding and require specific care. You can explore trusted information about different hair-loss types on reliable medical sites or discuss with your doctor.

If you’re ready to explore options that fit your lifestyle and needs, you can check Pricing to review potential plans and products. And for a broader understanding, you can also explore Science and Results to see how others have progressed with different approaches.

When to seek help sooner rather than later

• If your shedding continues beyond 12–24 months or worsens, or you notice patchy bald spots, seek medical advice.
• If you have symptoms like severe fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath, these can be signs of anemia or other conditions that deserve medical evaluation.
• If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and considering any topical treatments, talk with your healthcare provider first to ensure safety for you and your baby.

Remember, you’re not failing as a new mom because your hair is changing. Your body is going through a powerful transition, and your hair’s return to its former fullness is a real possibility with time and care. The goal is steady, compassionate steps that feel doable in your daily life.

A gentle ending with hope

Your journey through postpartum hair loss is valid, and your patience matters. Tiny daily actions add up, and there is a path forward that respects your rhythm as a parent. If you’re ready to take the next step, exploring options on Pricing can help you plan what to try next. When you’re ready, you can also revisit the idea of a focused hair-regrowth routine as part of a holistic approach—whether that includes a product like Bomi Hair Labs Hair Regrowth Serum as one option among others, alongside good scalp care and nutrition. Learn more about how such strategies fit into your routine by visiting How It Works.

You deserve support, clear information, and a sense of progress. You’re doing an amazing job, and there is light ahead—your hair, your confidence, and your well-being can come through this season stronger. If you’d like ongoing guidance and practical tips, keep returning for approachable, empathetic insights tailored to the realities of new motherhood.

If you’re ready to explore options, check Pricing. If you’d like to connect with additional practical tips, you can also review Science and Results to see what people are experiencing today. And for more context on the postpartum journey itself, a helpful read is the linked article on postpartum hair loss and regrowth timelines.

Helpful Bomi Links

• Our Science
• How It Works
• Clinical Results

Trusted Research

• American Academy of Dermatology — Hair Loss Guide
• NIH Alopecia Resource
• Hair Loss Research (DermNet NZ)

Read More from the Bomi Notebook

• Hair loss after menopause: what helps and what doesn't work today
• Hair Loss in Women: Causes, Signs, and Practical Treatment Options
• Peptide Treatments for Hair Loss: What the Research Says Today