Both this time and postpartum are stages full of changes that affect women’s hair health. Stylist Leonardo Rocco gives advice on how to keep hair healthy and shiny during this special time in life.
Today I want to talk to you about a topic that affects many women during and after pregnancy: hair care. As a professional hairstylist, I want to share with you my tips and experiences on how to take care of your mane during this unique time of life.
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What happens to hair during pregnancy?
It is important to note that pregnancy is a time when women experience many changes. The increase in blood volume and hormone levels causes many women to have longer, fuller and shinier manes.
Estrogen production (mainly female sex hormones) keeps hair in the anagen or growth phase.
This prevents normal daily hair loss, we usually lose between 80 and 100 hairs, making the hair look thicker and more abundant. Moreover, the production of androgens (mainly male sex hormones) stimulates hair growth.
Your hair can also look better than ever because you put a lot of emphasis on nutrition and the consumption of vitamins, proteins and supplements such as folic acid among others.
On the contrary, some women, due to the lack of vitamins, since many of them are consumed for the baby’s nourishment, have dull, brittle hair and split ends. Another disorder that pregnant women may suffer is in the scalp, as it can become more oily and in some cases drier.
Hormonal alterations can also cause the total transformation of the follicle, causing straight hair to become wavy or curly hair to become frizzy. All of this is normal and nothing to be alarmed about.
How to take care of your hair during pregnancy
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To maintain healthy hair during pregnancy, I recommend a diet rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, biotin and folic acid. According to Mayo Clinic, these nutrients are essential for hair growth and can be found in foods such as nuts, eggs, spinach and avocado.
In addition, it is crucial to maintain a hair care routine. On the other hand, radiant hair serum can be a great ally to combat dryness and frizz.
In addition to the right products, it is also important to consider the hairstyles you choose during pregnancy. Avoid hairstyles that pull on the scalp, such as tight ponytails or braids, as they can cause stress and damage to the hair follicles.
9 essential steps to take care of your hair during pregnancy
- Maintain a balanced diet. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals that promote hair health, such as vitamin E, biotin, folic acid, iron and protein. This includes foods such as spinach, eggs, nuts, avocado, fish and lean meats.
- Hydration. Make sure you drink enough water. Hydration is essential for maintaining the overall health of the body, including the scalp and hair.
- Use gentle products. Choose gentle products free of harsh chemicals for hair care. Also, since during pregnancy there is an increased production of oil on the scalp, you should wash your hair with specific shampoos for oily scalp.
- Avoid tight hairstyles. Hairstyles that pull on the scalp, such as tight ponytails or braids, can cause stress on the hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
- Perform scalp massages. This simple practice can help increase blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote healthier hair growth.
- Limit the use of heat. Excessive use of heat tools, such as flat irons or blow dryers, can damage hair, so try to allow your hair to air dry whenever possible. Avoid washing with very hot water, try to use lukewarm water.
- Use nourishing treatments. Many women find that their hair dries out during pregnancy. That is why it is important to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and I recommend you to use an ultra nourishing mask once a week to restore it.
- The use of hair dyes. It is recommended not to apply hair dye during the first 3 months of pregnancy. You can also use those that are completely natural and do not contain ammonia.
- Consult a professional if necessary. If you experience drastic changes in your hair or scalp, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a dermatologist or trichologist. They can give you more specific and personalized advice for your situation.
Postpartum hair care
After giving birth, your body and hair go through a period of adaptation. Your hair tends to lose strength and break. To recover it, in addition to a good diet, it is essential to continue with a routine of hair care.
Why does hair fall out after childbirth? Hair loss after childbirth, postpartum alopecia, also known as “telogen effluvium,” is quite common and is due to hormonal changes in the body. During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels in the body can cause the hair to enter a growth phase, which can result in thicker, fuller hair.
However, after delivery, estrogen levels begin to normalize, causing more hair to enter the “resting” or telogen phase. This is the period during which hair stops growing and eventually falls out, which can lead to more noticeable hair loss.
This postpartum hair loss is usually temporary and generally begins 2 to 5 months after delivery, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Most women will see their hair return to normal within 6 to 12 months after delivery. This is a natural physiological process that you shouldn’t worry about.
After that, the lost hairs will be replaced by new ones and the regular rhythm of growth will return to normal. But there are factors that can prolong hair loss more than usual, such as stress or breastfeeding. It is important to remember that every woman is different, and if hair loss is severe or persistent, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a health professional.
What vitamins and minerals should be taken?
Hair loss during pregnancy may be related to a lack of certain essential nutrients. Here are some vitamins and minerals that may be important for maintaining hair health during pregnancy:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7). This vitamin plays a key role in the health of hair, skin and nails. A deficiency can lead to hair loss. Biotin can be found in foods such as liver, eggs, nuts, seeds, dairy and some fruits and vegetables.
- Folic acid (Vitamin B9). Folic acid is vital for the formation of new cells, including hair cells. Green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans and lentils are good sources of folic acid.
- Vitamin D. Some studies have associated vitamin D deficiency with hair loss. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, foods such as oily fish, eggs and fortified dairy products, and also from supplements.
- Iron. Iron is essential for the production of blood cells that supply oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. A deficiency can cause anemia, which can lead to hair loss. Foods rich in iron include red meats, seafood, spinach and legumes.
- Zinc. This mineral is vital for healthy hair, skin and nails. A deficiency can result in hair loss. Sources of zinc include meats, seafood, pumpkin seeds, legumes and nuts.
- Selenium. Selenium is a mineral that helps the body produce special proteins, called selenoproteins, which play a role in protecting hair and skin. Selenium is found in foods such as Brazil nuts, seafood, meat and poultry.
- Silicon. Silicon can improve hair health, strengthen hair and give it shine. It can be found in foods such as oatmeal, beets and peppers.
It is important to remember to always seek the advice of a health professional before starting supplements, as some may have side effects or interact with other medications. Also, nutritional needs may vary from person to person, especially during pregnancy.
Remember, pregnancy and postpartum are full of changes, but with proper care and attention, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful.
*Leonardo Rocco is a renowned celebrity hair artist, spokesperson, platform artist, educator, television personality, salon owner and creator of a line of hair care products. Born in Argentina, with Italian roots, he has lived in Miami for the past 21 years where he developed his international professional career. He owns Rocco Donna Hair and Beauty Art, two super exclusive beauty salons, the first located on Ocean Drive and 1stStreet and the second at the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort in NorthBeach, he is also the creator of his Rocco Donna Professional product line.” IG | @leonardorocco1