Are you a new mom and seeing extra hair on your brush every morning? Don’t worry, it’s completely natural to experience some shedding post-pregnancy. Our hormones are going back to normal, which means hair growth is also returning to its natural cycle.

Your body can handle the change just fine on its own, and your hair will grow back normally, but if you want to help support the growth process, try some of these tips:

Be gentle

Your hair is as strong as ever right now, but any regular breakage will probably be more noticeable during your first few postpartum months. Every morning, try running a paddle brush with natural bristles carefully through your hair, starting at the ends. If possible, avoid using rubber elastics and opt for metal-free hair bands instead.

Massage

To help stimulate natural hair growth, gently massage peppermint or rosemary oil into your scalp while you shower. These two powerful oils are known to boost your hair’s growth stage, plus they smell fantastic. A really great scalp massage can also help you get a restful night’s sleep.

To get the most bang for your buck (and for your time), try the Hair La Vie Shampoo and Conditioner Set in the shower. Of course, they’ll cleanse and conditioner your scalp and hair with 21 natural ingredients, but they also contain peppermint oil to support the hair cuticle for strength and horsetail extract, a mineral known to promote existing hair growth. 

Supplement

Another effective way to boost hair health is by supplementing your diet with extra biotin, flaxseed oil, and zinc. These nutrients will not only promote hydration and follicle strength but will also help support your energy levels as you care for your newborn. 

A supplement will help maintain your hair’s natural cycles and promote the health of existing hair growth during these crucial postpartum months. For best results, take for at least three months after your baby is born.

Try a lob

Some new moms decide to chop their hair after they notice the shedding begins. A textured lob is a popular—and versatile—style to try post-baby. For added lift, try bending over and brushing your hair upside down. It’ll both stimulate your scalp and give your hair a quick pop of volume. 

Nature can be annoying, especially when it affects your hair, but take comfort in knowing that it’ll start going back to normal on its own after a few months. In the meantime, you now have an arsenal of tips to keep your beautiful hair healthy as it returns to its regular cycle.

Still pregnant? We’ve added some extra tips just for you

First, why is your hair so thick right now, anyway? You can thank the extra estrogen in your system. Higher levels of this hormone can prolong the hair growth phase, which means fewer strands will shift into the shedding stage. The end result is the appearance of thick, full hair that looks like it’s been blow-dried by a celebrity stylist.

Occasionally, these estrogen surges can have the opposite effect. If you’re pregnant and seeing the effects of post-baby hair ––extra shedding, bald spots, etc. –– fear not. Just like your thick-haired counterparts, these changes are all temporary. Your hair will go back to normal a few months post-pregnancy.

Whether your hair is struggling or looks healthier than ever, you’ll still want to support it with some extra TLC. We added 4 more tips to help keep your hair gorgeous throughout your pregnancy.

Embrace your type

It’s essential to keep track of your hair type during this hormonal upheaval. While your hair may have been stick-straight all your life, you may notice that it’s become wavy overnight. Some women have reported changes in their natural moisture –– their dry hair has become oily or vice versa.

Whatever your new hair type is, make sure to embrace it. Shampoo more regularly if it’s turned oily, or you can try Hair La Vie Nº 77 for dry strands.

Avoid coloring

While the American Pregnancy Association states that hair coloring is probably safe after the first trimester, we still recommend avoiding any synthetic dyes, especially those containing ammonia. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your baby's health.  

If you absolutely can’t avoid the dye, we recommend trying a henna-based, all-natural option.

Shampoo responsibly

If you’re shooting for an all-natural pregnancy, make sure to extend it to your shampoos and conditioners. Try to avoid synthetic fillers and additives, and look for sulfate-free shampoos that offer conditioning ingredients like avocado and jojoba seed oils.

Hair La View Dry Shampoo

Of course, you may not have time to shampoo and condition your hair every day with your new schedule. Hair La Vire’s volume replenishing Dry Shampoo was formulated with you in mind.

Cruelty and toxin-free, it's made with soap nut to clean and freshen up your hair in between washes, cleansing black clay and bamboo to absorb the oils, and meadowfoam seed oil to clear the impurities. 

You may not have the actual time to spare for hair wash, but that doesn’t mean your hair should suffer. Hair La Vie’s Dry Shampoo will leave you with fresher-looking, healthier hair that will have you feeling refreshed and ready for a whole new day filled with baby-firsts.

Final thoughts

While hormones have the biggest effect on your pregnancy hair, stress can also play a role. With the extra doctor visits, juggling work and baby showers, and planning for a new family member, it’s no wonder that so many women experience more stress than usual during pregnancy. If the excess adrenaline exposure lasts over a long period, you may notice a change in your hair growth phases. 

To better manage this type of stress, try carving out at least half an hour for yourself every day. Use it to do whatever helps you relax: meditate, read, or soak in a warm bath. And if you really want to stay on top of your hair game, but don’t have the time, Hair La Vie’s Dry Shampoo can help keep your hair manageable and gorgeous-looking. This is your chance to indulge in some you-time before the baby comes, so take it!