Why Postpartum Shedding Feels So Cruel (and What You Can Do About It)

You’re holding your beautiful new baby in one hand — and a clump of your own hair in the other.

It’s not the picture of motherhood anyone prepared you for.

If you’ve found yourself staring at your brush, your shower drain, or even your pillow in disbelief at the amount of hair you’re losing, please know this:
You are not alone, and it’s not your fault.

Postpartum shedding is a reality for up to 90% of new mothers. But while it’s extremely common, it’s also extremely distressing. The good news? It is temporary — and there are simple, natural ways to support your scalp and hair through this transition.

Let’s unpack what’s really happening with your hormones, your hair cycle, and what you can do today to feel more in control of your regrowth journey.

Why Is My Hair Falling Out After Having a Baby?

During pregnancy, your body is flooded with hormones, especially estrogen.
Estrogen prolongs the "growth phase" of your hair cycle, which is why many women notice thicker, fuller hair while pregnant. It’s like your strands are on an extended holiday.

But after birth, as your hormone levels drop to pre-pregnancy levels, all that hair that was “on hold” suddenly enters the shedding phase at once. This is called telogen effluvium.

It usually starts around 6–12 weeks postpartum and can last for several months.

How Long Will Postpartum Shedding Last?

The shedding typically peaks at about 4 months postpartum, then gradually slows down. For most women, things stabilise by 6–12 months after giving birth.

However, factors like stress, lack of sleep, nutrition gaps, and thyroid imbalances (hello, new mum life) can make it worse or prolong the recovery.

Can You Stop Postpartum Hair Loss?

You can’t completely stop the natural shedding process — it’s your body recalibrating itself. But you can do a lot to support a healthy regrowth phase and prevent prolonged shedding.
The goal is to nourish your scalp, feed your follicles, and manage stress (as much as realistically possible with a newborn).

Here’s how:

Natural Ways to Support Hair Regrowth After Baby

1. Feed Your Follicles From Within

Your body just grew a whole human! It’s time to replenish lost nutrients.
Focus on iron, vitamin D, zinc, and B-complex vitamins (especially biotin). These are crucial for hair health and energy levels.

Tip: Look for postpartum-friendly supplements and nutrient-dense meals like bone broth, leafy greens, seeds, and oily fish.

2. Gentle Scalp Massage with Growth Oils

Massaging your scalp increases blood flow to your hair follicles, which helps wake up sleepy strands. Using a nutrient-rich oil takes this to the next level.

Our go-to? Follicle Fuel Pro+.
It’s packed with proven natural stimulants like rosemary oil (known in studies to rival minoxidil), peppermint oil for circulation, and pumpkin seed oil, which blocks DHT — a hormone that can worsen hair thinning.

Plus, it’s postpartum safe and free from harsh chemicals.

3. Be Kind to Your Hair

Avoid tight hairstyles, heavy heat styling, and rough towel drying.
Switch to a satin/silk bonnet or pillowcase at night to reduce friction and breakage.

4. Stress Management (Even in Small Moments)

This one’s easier said than done, but even micro-moments of calm matter. Try 5-minute breathing exercises, short walks, start a prayer routine to guard your mind or a few mindful stretches while the baby naps. Chronic stress can prolong shedding — small resets can make a big difference.

5. Herbal Helpers

African botanicals can be powerful allies. Look for:

• Fenugreek — rich in protein and nicotinic acid to strengthen hair.

• Amla (Indian Gooseberry) — packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.

Fun fact: These are ingredients we intentionally include in our formula to work synergistically with your body.

When to See a Professional

If you notice bald patches, significant thinning beyond the 12-month mark, or other symptoms like fatigue and weight changes, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP or dermatologist to rule out underlying conditions like thyroid imbalance or anaemia.

Final Words of Comfort

Postpartum shedding feels personal, but it’s not a reflection of you doing anything wrong. It’s a sign of your body’s incredible transition and recovery. With patience, daily nourishment, and natural support, your hair can bounce back — and often comes back even stronger.

In the meantime, give yourself grace.
Your body has done something extraordinary, and this phase is just part of the journey.

✨ Ready to support your scalp naturally?
Explore Follicle Fuel Pro+ and give your hair the TLC it deserves.