How To Protect Your Hair: Before, During and After Pregnancy

By Di Di Payne

Sometimes pregnancy can bring on some of the most noticeable - and emotional - changes to a woman's hair. During pregnancy, high levels of estrogen prolong the anagen phase ( growth phase) as discussed in the previous Blog 4 Contributors of Hair Loss. This phase makes the strands appear thicker, fuller and more lustrous. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop rapidly, and many of those hairs that were "held in" suddenly shift into the telogen phase ( resting/shedding phase). This is what causes postpartum shedding, which typically begins about 2-4 months after delivery and can last a little over a year.

Postpartum Shedding and Hormonal Changes

While genetics can set the foundation how your hair grows- or how it thins - hormones often act as the trigger that brings those genetic tendencies to the surface. For example, if you have a family history of thinning or shedding, hormonal shifts from pregnancy, menopause or even birth control can accelerate the process. You have to understand both your genetic background and your body's hormonal rhythm to take early action, support your scalp health, and manage changes with confidence rather than surprise.

Before and During Pregnancy:

Choose low-manipulation styles: If possible, opt for protective or low tension styles such as loose braids, twists, cornrows ( located under the Natural Luxe ) service or even silk presses- anything that keeps stress off the scalp.

Moisturize regularly: Use pregnancy-safe oils and leave-ins like Ruby's Roots Organics Hydration Growth Oil

Maintain a nutrient-rich diet: Foods high in protein, iron, biotin, and omega-3s support strong strands. Continue taking prenatal vitamins as directed by your doctor - they also help to maintain healthy hair and nails.

Keep the scalp clean and stimulated: Gentle cleansing sprays like Ruby's Roots Organics Refresh Me Moisturizing Cleanser™ help keep buildup away, promoting circulation and follicle health.

After Pregnancy: Regrowth and Recovery

Be patient and gentle: Avoid panic shedding! This stage is temporary, so focus on gentle detangling, minimal heat and soft updos that protects your strands.

Regular trims: Cutting away split or fragile ends prevents further breakage while your new growth comes in.

Continue nourishing from within: Postnatal vitamins ( with your doctor's approval), iron, vitamin D3, and collagen can help support regrowth.

Scalp care is key: Massage your scalp with  Ruby's Roots Organics Hydration Growth Oil and a Wooden scalp massager 2-3 times per week to stimulate blood flow and encourage new growth.

Hydrate often: Hormonal changes can also affect your scalp's moisture balance- drink plenty of water and maintain a consistent moisturizing routine.

Embrace natural fullness: As hair returns to normal, experiment with lightweight, textures styles like twist-outs, bantu knots, or rod sets that add volume without stress. All of these styles can be found under  Natural Luxe or Natural Elite on the service menu.

It is important to know: postpartum hair shedding is temporary - your hair isn't falling out permanently. Once your hormones stabilize, your growth cycle will usually reset and new strands will begin to emerge.

When To Seek Help:

Many clients get so worried during postpartum shedding and tend to want to know if "its gone on too long". I get it, it's scary and you have so many concerns of when will it grow back or it seems like "more" shedding than normal. The truth is, it isn't more its just all at one time. However, if excessive shedding continues longer than 12-14 months postpartum or you notice bald patches, you can consult with me ( a licensed trichologist) or your dermatologist. Sometimes, postpartum thyroid changes or anemia can prolong hair loss, and addressing those underlying issues can jumpstart your regrowth.