Hair loss during pregnancy, everything you need to know!
Publié le 18-04-2024 et mis à jour le 02-10-2024
Pregnancy is an incredible time in a woman's life, but it can be accompanied by some physical changes that can be disconcerting.
One of these changes is hair loss during pregnancy. Even if the majority of future mothers have dream hair during pregnancy, massive loss is sometimes observed.
Although it is normal to lose some hair every day, some women may notice a significant increase in hair loss during pregnancy.
In this article, we explore the reasons for pregnancy hair loss and share tips for preventing it.
I. Pregnancy hair loss: how to explain it?
It is important to note that hair loss during pregnancy is a normal phenomenon that affects many women. Two main causes explain this phenomenon.
1. Pregnancy and hormones
Increased estrogen levels during pregnancy can affect hair in different ways.
Some women notice an improvement in the texture and appearance of their hair, with an increase in thickness and shine.
However, other women may experience more hair loss due to hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy.
This hair loss is often temporary and most women regain their normal hair density a few months after giving birth, others also experience postpartum hair loss unfortunately.
2. Pregnancy-related deficiencies
During pregnancy, deficiencies of certain nutrients can impact hair health.
As the fetus draws directly from the mother's reserves during pregnancy, deficiencies can occur.
For example, iron deficiency is common among pregnant women and can lead to hair loss during pregnancy.
Being essential for hair growth, iron is necessary for the metabolism of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to tissues, including the scalp and hair follicles.
As a result, iron deficiency can slow hair growth, weaken it, and make it more likely to fall out.
Similarly, a vitamin D deficiency can cause hair to become thinner and increase the risk of hair loss, while a zinc deficiency can also contribute to hair loss.
It is therefore essential that pregnant women ensure they eat a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for their own health and that of their baby.
II. Pregnancy hair loss: tips to avoid it
Although it is not possible to completely prevent hair loss during pregnancy, there are steps you can take to minimize its impact. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Adopt a healthy diet:
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins (including biotin and vitamin E) and minerals (like zinc and iron) is essential for hair health. Include foods such as eggs, green vegetables, nuts and whole grains in your diet to promote healthy hair.
See our article: nutrition during pregnancy
2. Avoid stress:
Stress can make hair loss worse. Try to manage your stress by practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or activities that help you relax.
3. Use gentle hair products:
Avoid hair products with harsh chemicals that could damage your hair. Instead, opt for gentle, natural hair products.
4. Avoid excessive heat:
Limit the use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons, as excessive heat can damage your hair and make it more susceptible to breakage.
Finally, talk to yourmidwife or gynecologist. The healthcare professional may prescribe a blood test to identify and supplement a possible iron or vitamin deficiency.
III. What products to use to prevent hair loss during pregnancy
When looking for hair products to prevent hair loss during pregnancy, look for those that are specifically designed to strengthen hair and stimulate growth. Some beneficial ingredients include biotin, vitamin E, zinc, iron, and herbal extracts like aloe vera and ginseng.
In addition, you can do a keratin treatment, such as the Absolu de Kératine treatment from D-LAB, which is compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
