Postpartum Hair Loss: Getting to the Root
A clear explainer of why shedding rises after birth, when it often peaks, and the simple nightly habit that helps you ride it out.
Start your 90 day routineNon hormonal • Lightweight feel • Built for daily use
What is happening
During pregnancy, higher estrogen keeps more follicles in growth. After delivery, hormone levels reset and a larger group of hairs shifts into rest, also called telogen. Those resting hairs do not fall right away. They release a few weeks later. This is why many people notice a sudden wave rather than a slow trickle.
Key idea
You are not running out of hair. A synchronized group is exiting at the same time, and new growth is already forming under the scalp.
Typical timeline
Everyone moves at a different pace. Use this outline to set expectations and lower worry.
Weeks 0 to 6
Hormones begin to rebalance. You may not see much change. Focus on gentle cleansing and scalp comfort.
Weeks 8 to 16
The shed wave often peaks here as telogen hairs release together. Consistency, not intensity, matters most.
Months 4 to 6 and beyond
Shedding usually eases. Short baby hairs along the hairline and crown become easier to see as cycles normalize.
Track with a monthly photo of the same part line in the same light and distance.
Normal or time to ask
What many people see
- Shed rise around weeks 8 to 16 that begins to slow later
- New short hairs by months 4 to 6
- No tender or inflamed scalp areas
When to get input
- Patchy or circular areas of loss
- Shedding that does not ease after about 6 months
- Scalp pain or swelling, or symptoms that may relate to iron or thyroid
This page is educational and not medical advice. Speak with your clinician for guidance that fits you.
Why shedding spikes after birth
Hormone reset: the drop in estrogen lets more follicles enter rest at the same time.
Recovery load: stress, sleep debt, and new schedules can add noise around follicles.
Good news: the cycle keeps moving. Make the scalp welcoming and protect what you see while new growth pushes in.
Core routine: Calm, Signal, Strengthen
Calm the scalp
Keep cleanse days steady and gentle. Reduce itch and flaking. A comfortable scalp sets the stage for everything else.
Signal at the root
Apply follicle signals to a clean scalp, dry or lightly towel damp, focusing on part line, crown, and temples. Small amounts used often.
Strengthen the lengths
Protect mid lengths and ends with light support. Keep heat and tension low so new growth is not set back.
Two minute night habit
Do this most nights for 90 days
Small repeatable steps beat weekend efforts.
- Part and apply: create 4 to 6 lines and place a few drops of scalp serum along each
- Spread gently: use fingertips only, no hard rubbing
- Protect ends: smooth a light leave in on mid lengths if needed
Set a phone reminder • Same time each night • Keep the bottle visible
Look fuller while growth catches up
Quick optical wins
- Shift or zigzag the part to reduce visible scalp
- Use light root lift near the scalp instead of heavy creams
- Ask for small dusting trims and a gentle shape to keep lift
Wash days and styling
- Order matters: Cleanse, Calm, Signal, then style
- Low tension: rotate ponytail placement and use soft ties or a claw clip
- Detangle smart: add slip in the shower and comb from ends upward
- Heat on low: air dry when you can. If you use tools, keep them brief and cool
Fast answers
How long does this last?
Many people see the wave ease by 4 to 6 months. Visible fullness improves as short regrowth gains length.
Can stress make it worse?
High stress and limited sleep can raise shed volume. You do not need perfect conditions. Small steady habits still help.
How do I track progress?
Take a photo of the same part line once a month in the same light. Compare month 1, 3, and 6.
Why we focus on scalp signals
Support a productive environment
Targeted actives are designed for the scalp, where growth decisions are made. A small amount used often can work better than heavy styling layers.
Frequency beats intensity
Signals respond to repetition. Nightly use for 8 to 12 weeks is a more realistic path than random heavy applications.
Calm enables progress
A comfortable, balanced scalp helps you stay consistent, and consistency is what the cycle responds to over time.
A gentle serum for the postpartum window
Lightweight, non greasy, built to fit into a two minute habit
Start Fleur nowJudge progress at 90 days • Monthly part line photo