Can Vitamins Reverse Postpartum Hair Loss?

One of the unexpected yet much-loved side effects of being pregnant is hair that looks fuller, shinier, and healthier. Experts credit the phenomenon to elevated estrogen levels that extend the growth phase for hair follicles, preventing the typical daily shedding people normally experience. However, when pregnancy ends and postpartum begins, regardless of hair type people often experience significant hair loss.

The postpartum slump

Postpartum sees a drop in estrogen that causes hair growth phases to return to normal and triggers wide-scale shedding. The experience can be alarming seeing excessive strands in the shower, brush, or on the bathroom floor. The process usually stabilizes by the end of a baby’s first year. Supplementing a healthy diet with vitamins can help to counteract hair loss.

1. Biotin is the classic choice

Biotin is one of the most popular hair growth supplements. Known as B7, this vitamin is prominently incorporated in most hair, skin, and nail products. Very often, biotin is the ingredient with the highest concentration. The nutrient is water-soluble and promotes hair growth by strengthening the hair shaft to preserve new growth and reduce the risk of breakage. For best results, avoid exceeding 300mg a day. Biotin is considered generally safe, but breastfeeding women should speak with a physician first since most hair, skin, nail supplements contain what are known as megadoses that can exceed the 35mcg recommended for pregnant women.

2. Vitamin D for collagen

For most people, vitamin D is associated with immunity, as well as bone and muscle health. The nutrient also supports collagen production which is essential for hair growth. Vitamin D isn’t naturally found in many foods which is why some options are fortified with the vitamin. When dietary choices aren’t enough to meet nutritional needs, consider taking a supplement.

3. Zinc promotes healthy hair

Zinc is another essential mineral that can influence hair health. When people have deficiencies in this nutrient,excessive shedding is a risk. Zinc works to support protein and DNA production. Especially for women who have just spent 9 months sharing nutritional resources with a baby, the mineral is effective at helping to regulate and stabilize hormones like estrogen, and even balancing the oil glands found near hair follicles.

4. Iron to address anemia

A leading cause of hair loss or prolonged shedding is anemia, which is when the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to distribute oxygen sufficiently throughout the body. Women are naturally prone to becoming anemic because of blood loss during the menstrual cycle when the uterine lining is shed. Supplementing iron can help to boost red blood cell levels, and improve oxygen uptake throughout the body. For better hair health, ensuring the hair follicles are receiving enough oxygen is crucial. Iron supplementation can help to support this goal. More specifically, the nutrient can assist in regulating cell division as well as the hair growth cycle, helping to reduce shedding.

Picking the right supplements

Women who are breastfeeding should consult a physician before incorporating a supplement into a daily routine. However, a healthy diet can support nutritional goals. When food choices alone can’t meet the necessary nutritional levels, opting for a supplement can help. Ideally, women should focus on supplements with clear ingredient lists that are free from unnecessary fillers. Additionally, looking for options that are tested by third parties for potency and purity can also help reduce the risk of negative side effects.