Postpartum Hair Loss: What to Expect and the Best Treatments to Try

June 23, 2025

Postpartum hair loss, clinically known as telogen effluvium, is a common condition experienced by many new mothers. According to Dr. Jennifer Sawaya, MD, FAAD of the Center for Aesthetic Laser Medicine Scottsdale, a division of U.S. Dermatology Partners, telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss characterized by a sudden increase in hair shedding, typically in response to a stress on the body. This can include metabolic, medication, and hormonal related changes. Typically, the increase in hair shedding occurs about 3-4 months following the internal change. Most women will notice some degree of this postpartum and it can be very distressing if not expected. In this blog, Dr. Sawaya walks through some of the best treatments and preventive measures for postpartum hair loss and discusses how to find the right product for hair loss following pregnancy.

What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?

Explaining postpartum hair loss, Dr. Sawaya says, “During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels keep hair in the anagen (growth) phase for longer periods, leading to thicker, fuller hair. After childbirth, estrogen levels drop drastically, pushing hair follicles into the telogen (shedding) phase. This results in increased hair loss, which typically begins around three months postpartum, peaks between four to six months, and gradually improves by the one-year mark.” While postpartum hair loss leaves many women feeling self-conscious, it is a temporary phase in your postpartum journey. With the right products, you can support hair regrowth and overall scalp health.

Best Products for Postpartum Hair Loss

To effectively manage postpartum hair loss, Dr. Sawaya recommends, “Incorporating the right postpartum hair loss prevention and treatment products into your daily routine is essential. Below, I outline three simple options that address nutritional deficiencies, strengthen hair follicles, and stimulate regrowth. While the hormonal shift and increased period of hair shedding cannot be prevented, there are some things postpartum women can do to support hair regrowth as well as overall hair health.”

Prenatal Multi-Essential Supplement by Needed

Why It Works: Continuing a high-quality prenatal supplement postpartum ensures the body receives essential nutrients to support hair regrowth. This women’s health supplement provides vital components like iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins that are crucial for maintaining healthy hair. The product is best for preventing further hair loss and thickening hair for women who experience mild postpartum hair loss.

Product Benefits:

  • Supports postpartum hair growth and overall health
  • Prevents nutritional deficiencies that contribute to hair thinning
  • Contains hair-friendly nutrients such as biotin, iron, and folate

Shop Now: Needed Prenatal Multi-Essentials

Nutrafol Women’s Postpartum Supplement

Why It Works: Nutrafol Women’s Postpartum Supplement harnesses many of Nutrafol’s hair growth benefits in a formula developed specifically for postpartum women. It contains a blend of omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, collagen, and adaptogens that restore hair health by supporting follicles, balancing hormones, and reducing stress-related hair loss. This option is good for moderate postpartum hair loss to boost growth and prevent additional shedding.

Product Benefits:

  • Safe for breastfeeding mothers
  • Targets the root causes of postpartum hair loss, including hormonal shifts and nutrient deficiencies
  • Strengthens hair, improves density, and reduces shedding

Show Now: Nutrafol Women’s Postpartum Supplement

Topical Minoxidil (Rogaine)

Why It Works: Minoxidil is an FDA-approved treatment that promotes hair regrowth by stimulating blood flow to the scalp and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of hair follicles. It is particularly beneficial for women experiencing significant hair thinning or bald patches.

Product Benefits:

  • Clinically proven to stimulate hair regrowth
  • Effective for those with visible hair thinning and even bald spots
  • Easy to apply and integrates well into daily routines

Application Tip: Apply twice daily to the scalp for optimal results.

Shop Now: Women’s Rogaine Extra Strength 5% Minoxidil Foam

Additional Treatments & Tips for Managing Postpartum Hair Loss

While supplements and topical postpartum hair loss treatments aid hair regrowth, adopting healthy hair care practices is equally important. Here are some additional tips for improving postpartum hair growth:

Gentle Hair Care

  • Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails or buns that increase hair breakage and place pressure on the follicles, encouraging shedding.
  • Minimize the use of heat styling tools such as curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers.
  • Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner to keep hair healthy and hydrated.

Healthy Diet for Hair Growth

  • Consume a diet rich in protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and biotin. These nutrients are all essential for strong, healthy hair.
  • Incorporate leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fatty fish into your meals to support hair follicle health.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Consider consulting a dermatologist about PRP therapy, which involves injecting your own platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair growth. These clinical treatments are often beneficial to jumpstart hair regrowth following pregnancy.

When to See a Dermatologist

In most cases, postpartum hair loss resolves naturally within 6-12 months. However, it may be time to see a dermatologist who can assess your condition and recommend personalized treatments, such as prescription medications or in-office procedures. It may be time to schedule a dermatology visit if:

  • Hair loss persists beyond 12 months postpartum
  • You notice bald patches or significant thinning
  • You experience other symptoms such as scalp itching, redness, or irritation
  • You would like reassurance

Final Thoughts: Be Patient & Consistent

When making a decision about what to use for postpartum hair loss, Dr. Sawaya says, “This temporary condition can be managed with the right products and hair care habits. Consistency is key. By using effective treatments, maintaining a nutritious diet, and treating your hair gently, you promote regrowth and restore your hair’s fullness over time. However, I know how stressful postpartum hair loss can be for my patients. Working with a dermatologist can minimize the impact of this condition and improve hair health more quickly.”

Schedule a Dermatology Consultation

If you’re concerned about your postpartum hair loss, consider scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist for a personalized treatment plan. Schedule a consultation a visit with a skilled dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners, using our online request form. Our local dermatology team members look forward to hearing from you soon.

If you’re in the Scottsdale area, you can contact the Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sawaya or one of her trusted colleagues.

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