A mama’s guide to navigating postpartum hair loss

Around the four-month mark, my little bundle of joy grew more interactive and chatty—it was adorable! I was finally getting the hang of parenting and learning to embrace my body’s changes (droopy belly skin and all) when the dreaded postpartum hair loss kicked in. It was heart-wrenching! I’d wake up to hair strands covering my pillow and find myself walking on what felt like a carpet of fallen hair. My hairline began visibly receding around my forehead, and patches of bald spots appeared on my scalp. Despite the joy of watching my child grow cuter by the day, I felt utterly miserable and unattractive. But here’s the good news: while postpartum hair loss is intimidating, it doesn’t last forever! Here are the tried and tested tips that helped regrow my hair.

The reality behind postpartum hair loss

Feeling desperate and curious about my hair loss, I launched into a full Google research spree. I learnt that postpartum hair loss stems primarily from hormonal changes after giving birth. During pregnancy, increased estrogen levels gift you with longer, and thicker hair. But after delivery, those estrogen levels plummet—and so does your hair. Research also suggests other contributing factors like physical and emotional stress, nutritional deficiencies, and genetics. Most women notice it around three months postpartum.

As a new stay-at-home mother, I struggled to find moments for self-care and proper nutrition, which likely worsened my situation. The good news from my research? Postpartum hair loss is completely normal, and hair typically regrows within a year after giving birth.

Still, knowing the science didn’t ease my emotions. As my child’s primary caregiver, my plummeting confidence affected my ability to be the strong support my family needed. The bald spots were so obvious that I avoided photos and declined social invitations. I became self-conscious and increasingly isolated.

Coping strategies and the magical serum

Noticing my depression about my hair loss, my husband stepped in with much-needed support. He took over childcare duties to give me time for self-care and helped prepare nutritious meals. With renewed motivation, I decided to try hair growth products. We invested in a set from PHS HAIRSCIENCE that included shampoo, conditioner, scalp primer, and tonic—one of the best purchases I’ve made since becoming a mum!

Hair growth from 4 months to 9 months postpartum

The results were remarkable! New hair began appearing on my bald spots after just one week, which motivated me to continue the treatment consistently. Within nine months postpartum, my bald spots had disappeared, replaced by healthy baby hair sprouting all over my head! Initially, these new growths created a somewhat messy look, but as they lengthened, my hair became neater and more manageable.

Now at 21 months postpartum, my hair has essentially returned to normal. I still occasionally apply hair growth serums, though I’m considering more budget-friendly alternatives to the PHS HAIRSCIENCE bundle, which is quite expensive for a stay-at-home mum. Brands like Grafen and BiOSys offer promising options. My advice? Invest in products you trust and that fit your budget. Beauty shouldn’t break the bank!

A message to other mamas in the thick of shedding

Dear mama with hair on your pillow and in your shower drain, I see you. That moment of panic when you run your fingers through your hair and come away with what feels like half your head? I’ve been there. Please know this: what you’re experiencing right now is temporary. I promise. Though it may not feel like it when you’re vacuuming hair from every corner of your home, this shedding season will pass. Your hormones will stabilise, and those fuzzy little baby hairs will make their appearance.

While navigating this challenging phase, remember that your worth as a mother has nothing to do with your hairline. Your baby doesn’t care about the bald spots only you can see—they care about your smile, your voice, and your comfort. The love you’re pouring into this little human is what truly matters. Motherhood asks so much of our bodies, and each change, including hair loss, is evidence of the incredible journey you’ve undertaken to bring your child into this world.

Be gentle with yourself and accept help when it’s offered. Whether it’s someone watching the baby while you get a confidence-boosting haircut, a friend who listens without judgment, or a partner who steps up so you can focus on self-care—say yes to support. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Remember: you are so much more than your hair. This phase will pass, and what will remain is the strength you discovered, the resilience you built, and the beautiful bond with your child that grows stronger every day.

You’ve got this. We’ve got this. Together.

* This article is not sponsored. This article is my personal experience boosting hair growth after giving birth. *

Leave a comment