You’ve just had a baby — congrats! Between diaper changes, feedings, and baby snuggles, there’s a lot going on. But then… you notice more hair than usual in your brush or shower drain. Is this normal? Are you going bald?
Take a deep breath — postpartum hair loss is very common, and in most cases, it’s temporary. Let’s talk about why it happens, what to expect, and how to care for your hair during this time.
Why Does Hair Fall Out After Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, your body goes through major changes — including changes to your hair. Thanks to high hormone levels (especially estrogen), many moms say their hair looks thick and shiny while pregnant.
But after giving birth, hormone levels drop — and fast.
This sudden shift causes more hairs than usual to enter the “shedding” phase of the hair cycle. It’s called telogen effluvium, and it usually starts about 2 to 4 months after birth.
What Postpartum Hair Loss Looks Like
You might notice:
Hair coming out in clumps while brushing or showering
A thinner ponytail
Extra hair on your pillow or clothes
A receding hairline near your temples
Don’t worry — most moms do not go completely bald. It may feel like you're losing a lot, but you're just catching up on hair that didn’t fall out during pregnancy.
How Long Does It Last?
The good news?Postpartum hair loss is temporary. For most people, hair starts to grow back in 6 to 12 months.
If it continues beyond a year or if you notice bald spots or excessive thinning, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional. In San Jose, many moms turn to trichologists for help (hair and scalp specialists).
Simple Tips to Help Your Hair Recover
While you can’t stop postpartum shedding completely, you can support your hair’s health:
Eat well – Include iron, protein, and vitamins like biotin and zinc
Be gentle – Avoid tight hairstyles and harsh brushing
Use the right products – Look for shampoos and conditioners made to strengthen or volumize
Massage your scalp – It helps boost blood flow and can support new growth
Avoid heat tools – Give your hair a break from blow dryers and straighteners
Bonus tip: Don't stress too much — that can make things worse!
When to Get Help
If you’re still seeing hair loss after a year, or if your scalp is itchy, sore, or flaky, it’s time to get it checked out. Other issues like thyroid imbalance or iron deficiency could be hiding underneath.
At New Look Institute, we are experts on postpartum hair loss and scalp care. Located right here in San Jose, our team uses science-backed trichology to figure out the root cause of your hair concerns. We offer personalized solutions to help new moms feel confident again — without the guesswork. Contact us today for your free consultation and take the first step toward healthier, fuller hair.
