Postpartum Hair Loss (Telogen Effluvium): Restoring Your Hair and Confidence After Birth

What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?

Postpartum hair loss is a common condition that many new mothers experience, often noticing a significant thinning of what was once thicker, fuller hair during pregnancy. This shedding, also known as “telogen effluvium,” typically occurs due to hormonal changes after giving birth and can last between 3 to 6 months. Approximately 50% of women in Singapore go through this phase, finding loose hairs on their pillows and clothing or even clogging their shower drains. At DrScalp, we understand the importance of hair to a woman’s confidence. New mums, there’s no need to worry—we have just the solution to help you manage this temporary hair loss effectively.

Normal Hair Growth Cycle

Understanding the hair growth cycle helps explain postpartum hair loss.
Here’s how hair growth works:

How Does Postpartum Hair Loss Occur?

01

Growth Phase
(Anagen)

During pregnancy, high oestrogen (hormone regulating female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics) levels prolong this phase, leading to lusher hair by keeping more hair in active growth.

02

Transitional Phase
(Catagen)

During pregnancy, fewer hairs transition to this phase due to the prolonged anagen phase.

03

Resting Phase
(Telogen)

After childbirth, the drop in oestrogen levels causes a larger proportion of hair to abruptly enter this phase, staying there for about 3 months.

04

Shedding Phase
(Exogen)

Around the third or fourth month postpartum, many hairs in the resting phase shed simultaneously, leading to noticeable hair loss.

Causes of Postpartum Hair Loss

Hormonal Changes

The significant hormonal fluctuations after childbirth are the primary triggers for shedding.

Stressful Event

The physical stress of childbirth itself can accelerate hair loss.

Anaemia

Iron deficiency post-childbirth can increase hair loss.

Breastfeeding

Influences hormone levels, particularly progesterone (hormone essential for menstruation and maintaining pregnancy), contributing to hair shedding.

Postpartum Thyroiditis

Inflammation of the thyroid gland (produces hormones regulating metabolism, energy, and body temperature) affecting hormone levels and potentially causing hair loss.

Diabetes

Chronic condition affecting hormone levels and hair health postpartum.

DrScalp's Postpartum Hair Loss Treatment

At DrScalp, we recognise the emotional and physical toll postpartum hair loss can take. With a baby to take care of and a slew of physical and hormonal changes occurring to your body, we want to take care of your hair at least – to provide you with a bit of pampering during these tough times.

 

DrScalp provides a nurturing environment for new mothers with private lounges for treatments, so you can sit back, relax, and forget about your troubles for a while. Our specialised postpartum hair loss treatments are crafted to rebalance your scalp’s health and stimulate hair regrowth, helping you regain your hair’s volume and strength. Mums are superheroes, and you deserve only the very best.

Postpartum Hair Loss Shampoo

For new mothers facing postpartum hair loss, our Growth Series Postpartum Hair Loss Shampoo and Conditioner offers a supportive solution. This series stimulates hair growth and reduces inflammation using gentle, natural ingredients like Red Clover Flower Extract and Hydrolysed Lupine Protein. These ingredients promote the active growth phase of hair and minimise follicle shrinkage.

Understanding that hormonal changes post-delivery can lead to an oily scalp, our Postpartum Oil Control Shampoo and Conditioner provides care with soothing botanical extracts and essential oils. It detoxifies and rebalances your scalp’s natural oils, reducing excessive sebum while nourishing the scalp. This fosters an environment for healthier and thicker hair growth.

By choosing these specially designed postpartum hair loss products, you can address postpartum hair concerns with care and focus on enjoying time with your baby.

Postpartum Hair Loss Complications

  • Excessive Shedding
    Typically, it’s normal to shed 50-100 hairs a day, but postpartum women might experience more significant shedding. If you’re losing large clumps of hair (e.g. 150-200 hairs a day) or your hair does not begin to recover within 12 months, consult a healthcare provider.

 

  • Emotional Impact
    Hair loss can lead to stress, anxiety, and lowered self-esteem.
  • Compulsive Hair-Pulling (Trichotillomania)
    Stress might trigger compulsive hair-pulling.

 

  • Hair Thinning
    Noticeable scalp exposure can cause embarrassment.

 

  • Delayed Regrowth
    Hair may take several months to a year to regrow.

 

  • Scalp Sensitivity
    Hair loss might make your scalp more susceptible to sunburn or injury.

Cost of Postpartum Hair Loss Treatment in Singapore

The number of sessions needed can vary significantly based on how severe your hair loss is, and some clinics offer package deals which might provide better value.

 

At DrScalp, we specialise in providing personalised hair loss treatments that are tailored to the unique conditions of postpartum hair loss. We recommend booking an appointment for a detailed consultation to discuss your specific hair health needs and to receive a treatment plan customised just for you.

 

The cost of hair loss treatment in Singapore can vary as follows:

Treatment Average Cost
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
$300 – $800 per session
Laser Therapy
$200 – $500 per session
Topical Medications
$50 – $200 per month
Hair Transplant Surgery
$5000 – $15000 depending on no. of grafts

Why Choose DrScalp for Postpartum Hair Loss Treatment?

Experiencing hair loss after pregnancy can be distressing, but DrScalp is here to restore not only your hair but also your confidence. Our specialised postpartum hair loss treatment is meticulously tailored to address the unique challenges faced by new mothers, ensuring results that are both effective and nurturing. Here’s why DrScalp stands out:

1. Advanced High-Frequency Comb Technology

For those experiencing the early stages of thinning hair, our gentle treatments help stimulate circulation and nourish hair follicles. Using strengthening ingredients and nourishing solutions, we promote hair regrowth and improve scalp health to reduce hair loss and encourage thicker, fuller hair.

2. Galvanic Scalp Massager

If your hair thinning is more advanced, our specialised solution such as ZynStem™ Bio-Cell, works to rejuvenate the scalp and stimulate hair growth. This advanced solution penetrates deep into the follicle using the NanoJet technology to target weak hair follicles, support healthy growth cycles, and restore balance to your scalp to improve hair density and thickness.

3. Personalised Treatment Plans

At DrScalp, we believe that every mother’s hair care needs are unique. That’s why we start with a detailed scalp analysis to create a personalised treatment profile that addresses your specific concerns. From hormonal changes to nutritional needs, our treatments are designed to target the root causes of your postpartum hair loss, ensuring tailored and effective solutions.

4. Holistic Approach to Hair Regrowth

We focus on more than just the symptoms of hair loss; we address the underlying causes by considering hormonal fluctuations and specific nutritional requirements. Our holistic approach not only restores your hair but also enhances its volume and strength, bringing about natural and lasting changes.

Choose DrScalp for your postpartum hair recovery journey, where we nurture your hair back to its pre-pregnancy glory, making it healthier and more resilient. Embrace a solution that understands the needs of a new mother and delivers with precision and care.

Postpartum Hair Loss Tips

Postpartum hair loss can feel overwhelming, but small, gentle steps can make a big difference in managing it:

  • Opt for Volumising Products
    Choose shampoos and conditioners that add volume, helping your hair look fuller. Follow the manufacturer’s advice closely for optimal results. For those who use our shampoos, following these instructions:
    • Gently apply and massage a generous amount of shampoo onto wet hair and scalp till lather. Gently rinse after with lukewarm water.
    • For maximum hair growth, we recommend using it daily with the particular series’ Conditioner and Hair Tonic (e.g. Growth Conditioner and Growth Tonic).
  • Gentle Styling
    Avoid tight hairstyles that pull at the roots. Loose styles and soft scrunchies are kinder to your hair.

 

  • Reduce Heat Styling
    Minimise the use of blow dryers and straighteners to protect your hair’s integrity.

 

  • Nutritional Support
    Keep up with prenatal vitamins and a balanced diet to nourish your hair and body.

 

  • Seek Support
    The DrScalp team is always on standby to help. We know how frustrating and confusing hair loss can be, and can provide personalised advice that’s quick and easy.

These tips can help you manage postpartum hair loss while nurturing your hair and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Postpartum hair loss typically starts around three months after childbirth and lasts up to six months. It’s usually temporary, with hair eventually returning to normal by the time your baby reaches his or her first birthday.

Postpartum hair loss typically resolves within 6 to 12 months after childbirth. Hair loss treatments might be required if the shedding is excessive or continues beyond this period to promote healthy regrowth and restore hair density.

No, postpartum hair loss cannot be entirely prevented. It is a natural process caused by hormonal changes after childbirth. However, maintaining a healthy diet and gentle hair care can help minimise the effects.

Yes, hereditary hair loss is one of the most common causes, especially in males (Male pattern baldness) and females (Female pattern baldness). It  typically involves a sensitivity to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which shrinks the hair follicles

Yes, genetics can influence postpartum hair loss. Women with a family history may notice more significant hair thinning. If concerned, do consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Consume vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables, milk, eggs, lean meats, whole grains, and leafy greens. After consulting your doctor, you may consider biotin and zinc supplements.

Medical Journal References

Galal, Sara Ahmed, et al. “Postpartum Telogen Effluvium Unmasking Additional Latent Hair Loss Disorders.” PubMed Central (PMC), 1 May 2024, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11107900.

 

Hirose, Asuka, et al. “Investigation of Exacerbating Factors for Postpartum Hair Loss: A Questionnaire-based Cross-sectional Study.” International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, vol. 9, no. 2, June 2023, p. e084, doi:10.1097/jw9.0000000000000084.