When Does the Postpartum Hair Loss Stop? (And What Can You Do?)

Nov 18

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Spoiler: You’re not shedding forever—even if it feels like it.

If you’re several months postpartum and suddenly noticing clumps of hair in the shower drain, extra fallout on your pillow, or a thinner ponytail… you’re not imagining it.

Postpartum hair loss is incredibly common, and while it can be surprising (and honestly, alarming), it is temporary.

Let’s break down why it happens, when it stops, and what you can do to support healthy regrowth.

🌿 Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen?

During pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep more hairs in the growth phase. That’s why so many pregnant people notice thicker, fuller, shinier hair.

After birth, those hormone levels drop rapidly—and all the hairs that were “paused” in the growth cycle begin to shed at once. This stage is called telogen effluvium, and it’s normal.

Most parents experience postpartum hair loss regardless of:

Birth method
Feeding method
Hair type
Genetics

It’s a hormonal shift—not something you caused.

📅 When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start?

Most people notice shedding beginning around:

8–12 weeks postpartum (very common)
Sometimes earlier if they weaned from breastfeeding
Sometimes later if hormone changes happen more gradually

Shedding can feel intense—like way more than your usual daily loss—but it's part of the cycle resetting.

⏳ When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Stop?

The short answer: around 6–12 months postpartum.

For most parents:

Shedding peaks around 3–4 months
It slows noticeably around 6 months
Hair typically returns to its normal fullness by 12 months

A small group may take up to 15–18 months, especially if breastfeeding or experiencing additional hormonal shifts—but even then, the hair almost always grows back fully.

💇‍♀️ What You Can Do to Support Healthier Hair

While you can’t stop the hormonal process, you can encourage healthier regrowth and minimize the intensity of shedding.

1. Keep Taking Postnatal Vitamins

Nutrients like biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D support hair health—especially if you’re breastfeeding or recovering from blood loss.

2. Eat Protein-Rich Foods

Add an extra protein source to your meals!

Such as:

Eggs
Tofu
Greek yogurt
Chickpeas
Nuts + seeds

3. Be Gentle with Your Hair

Avoid:

Tight ponytails
Harsh brushing
High-heat styling
Chemical treatments

Choose loose styles and soft scrunchies to reduce breakage.

4. Switch to Volumizing or Strengthening Products

Thickening shampoos (this one is EWG-verified!), lightweight conditioners, and leave-in serums can instantly help hair look fuller.

5. Scalp Massage

A few minutes a day boosts circulation and encourages new growth. It feels good and it’s effective.

I personally love this scalp massager!

6. Talk to Your Doctor If It Feels Extreme

If shedding is severe or comes with fatigue, dry skin, or mood changes, ask about:

Thyroid imbalances
Iron deficiency
Both are treatable and more common postpartum than people realize.

💛 A Gentle Reminder

Postpartum hair loss can be jarring and emotional, especially at a time when your body is already going through so many changes.

But you are not doing anything wrong—and you’re not alone.

Your hair will grow back.
Your fullness will return.

And this phase, like so many in the first year of parenthood, is temporary.

Kasumi Mori