Breastfeeding hair loss during maternity leave: challenges for a mother

It often starts quietly. An extra clump of hair in the drain. The hair around the hairline suddenly disappearing. And the mirror telling a story about all the new things life brings with a baby—even where you didn't expect it. Shit! Are you going bald?! Don't worry, breastfeeding hair is a natural part of everyday life for many new mothers, and although it can feel challenging, it opens the door to finding small, effective routines that support a maternity leave filled with breastfeeding, naps, and lovely walks with the stroller. It's important to remember that both breastfeeding hair and hair loss are normal changes in motherhood and part of the body's natural cycle.

What is breastfeeding hair and why does it happen?

During pregnancy, hair enters an active growth phase that gives it a thick and shiny appearance – thanks to high estrogen levels. After giving birth, hormone levels drop and more hairs collectively transition into the resting phase. This process, known as telogen effluvium, is temporary but can be significant for the hair follicles. It is a natural reaction to the hormonal changes that occur both during pregnancy and at birth.

For most mothers, hair shedding – and thus hair loss – peaks around three to four months after giving birth; for some a little earlier, for others later. Typically, shedding subsides within six to twelve months, and new, fine hairs begin to appear along the hairline, which can be quite difficult to manage (and style). Remember that a targeted effort with a varied diet (and possibly supplements) can support health and help minimize hair loss, so you don't have to walk around with nursing hair forever... And, of course, there is one more thing you can do if you want to get your hair back in top shape quickly.

It is important to emphasize that breastfeeding is not the cause of hair loss – the hormonal decline after pregnancy and childbirth is the main explanation. Breastfeeding can indirectly affect the situation, as changes in sleep, energy intake, and nutritional balance are factors, but hair loss also occurs in mothers who do not breastfeed.

Some conditions can also intensify or prolong the process:

• Low iron stores, low ferritin, or B12 deficiency
• Metabolic challenges
• Significant blood loss during childbirth
• Prolonged stress and insufficient sleep (yes, it's unfair that sleep is also important here, when it's often so difficult to get when you're the mother of a small child)
• Certain forms of contraception

If you experience symptoms such as significant fatigue, heart palpitations, dizziness, sensitivity to cold, or mood swings, it is a good idea to consult your doctor. A simple blood test can reveal deficiencies that can be easily remedied with the right vitamins and supplements.

How does it feel in everyday life on maternity leave?

Maternity leave brings a shift in focus. Your body has just accomplished something extraordinary, and your daily routine revolves around your little one. Still, your appearance and identity are important—even when you're sitting in your pajamas at two in the afternoon. Hair loss can feel like an additional setback, precisely because our hair often reflects who we are. Although hair loss can sometimes seem overwhelming, it is important to remember that it is a temporary phase for breastfeeding hair, and over time, balance will return.

It is completely natural to have mixed feelings – irritation, concern, and sometimes humor about the little antenna hairs that refuse to follow the plan. It helps to introduce simple routines that do not steal too much of your precious time in front of the mirror.

Care that works in a busy everyday life

When time is short, it is the small, effective habits that make a difference without requiring too much energy. A few gentle habits can also support overall health and reduce hair loss, so your breastfeeding hair appears strong and healthy.

• Use a gentle wash with a mild shampoo product that does not contain overly harsh sulfates, as these dry out your hair and scalp. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips to stimulate blood flow, but avoid scrubbing too hard.
• Wash your hair every two or three days, if your hair type allows it. Dry shampoo can be helpful on busy days.
• Dry your hair with a microfiber towel or T-shirt – gently squeeze out the water instead of rubbing.
• Limit the use of heat. If you blow-dry, use medium heat and finish with a cool air flow. Always remember heat protection.
• Choose fabric or spiral hair ties to minimize breakage. Alternate between loose ponytails, low buns, and braids to distribute the pull on your hair.
• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
• Avoid chemical treatments for the first few months, if possible. If you choose to dye or straighten your hair, be gentle and wait until shedding – and thus hair loss – has peaked.

A small ritual that works wonders: 2 to 3 minutes of gentle scalp massage daily, possibly with a good hair serum on your fingertips. It feels both nice and refreshing while your baby sleeps peacefully next to you.

Products that make sense

The market offers many promises. But your scalp and hair need peace, moisture, and protection first and foremost. For the best hair health, it is important to choose products that support a healthy and natural balance so that your breastfeeding hair can grow as healthily as possible.

• Shampoo: Choose products with mild surfactants and a pH of around 5 to 5.5.
• Conditioner: Prefer lightweight varieties that do not weigh down the hair – especially if your hair is fine.
• Scalp serum: Formulations with capilia longa and anagain can support healthy hair growth and alleviate hair loss. One example is our hair serum Grow, which also contains nourishing ingredients that create a healthier environment for the hair.
• Avoid strong exfoliating products for the scalp if you experience a lot of hair loss. Gentle care is key.
• Avoid oils on the scalp, as they will make your hair look greasy and, in some cases, destroy the bacterial flora of the scalp, which is essential for good and healthy hair growth.

Regarding hair growth products: Minoxidil and similar products are generally not recommended during breastfeeding without a doctor's assessment. Consider talking to your doctor if you are in doubt.

Nutrition, energy, and breastfeeding hair

Hair consists primarily of protein, and the body does not prioritize hair when calories and micronutrients are scarce. Especially during breastfeeding, it is important to ensure a stable intake—an effort that provides long-term benefits. A healthy diet with a focus on a varied composition of ingredients can help not only support your overall health, but also promote strong and healthy breastfeeding hair. Feel free to include supplements, vitamins, and biotin in your daily routine to reduce hair loss and strengthen hair structure.

Here are some quick and nutritious meals you can enjoy:

• Rye bread with eggs and spinach
• Skyr with berries and nut mix
• Whole grain roll with salmon salad
• Hummus with vegetable sticks and olives
• Oatmeal with chia seeds and peanut butter

Hairstyles and styling that hide small hairs

The small, new hairs at the hairline can be stubborn, but with a little flair, they can become part of your signature look. If your hair loss has made you feel that your hair is no longer as full as it used to be, a well-thought-out hairstyle can help you rediscover your style.

• Change your parting – a deep side parting can elegantly conceal thinner areas.
• Use light hold styling products such as gel or balm to tame your hair without completely fixing it in place.
• Headbands and scarves are both practical and stylish when breastfeeding and out with the stroller.
• Loose braids reduce tension on the hair follicles and give a lively look, even when you need to get things done quickly.
• Create a textured bun – dry shampoo or saltwater spray can add volume and life to your hairstyle.
• Colour fibre spray on the scalp creates the effect of thicker hair at the hairline.

A little tip: Use a small round brush and cool air from the hair dryer to gently flatten the small hairs. It takes a few minutes and gives a lasting result, so you can feel both fresh and healthy.

Myths and facts

• Myth: Breastfeeding ruins your hair.
• Fact: Hair loss is primarily due to the hormonal decline after pregnancy and childbirth. Breastfeeding can have an indirect influence through changes in sleep and energy levels.
• Myth: The right shampoo can stop hair loss.
• Fact: Shampoo can soften and reduce irritation and breakage, but it does not change the natural cycle of the hair follicles.
• Myth: Cutting your hair makes it grow faster.
• Fact: Cutting your hair does not increase the actual growth rate, but it removes wear and tear and gives your hair a healthier appearance.
• Myth: Scalp oil is always beneficial.
• Fact: Some people experience positive results, while others may experience itching or clogged hair follicles. Always listen to your scalp.
• Myth: Once hair loss has started, it's too late to do anything.
• Fact: With gentle care, a hair serum with clinically proven effectiveness, and a healthy, varied diet, hair can recover and grow back, although hair loss can often be a normal after-effect of childbirth.

When hair loss seems severe

If you experience significant hair loss over several months or if obvious patches appear, you should consult a doctor. Signs that require special attention include:

• Hair loss that does not subside after 9 to 12 months
• Significant thinning of eyebrows or eyelashes
• Extreme fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, or sensitivity to cold
• A sore, flaky, or clogged scalp with sores or itching

Your doctor can perform tests for iron status, vitamin D, thyroid function, and B12. In some cases, patchy hair loss may occur, which requires special treatment. It is reassuring to get a clear assessment – even when it shows that everything will fall back into place.

What you can do to prevent breakage

Although hormonal shedding cannot be stopped, fortunately there are many ways to minimize breakage. In addition to the tips mentioned above, a healthy diet with sufficient amounts of vitamins and biotin can help strengthen hair and reduce hair loss.

• Avoid wearing a tight ponytail in the same place every day.
• Put your hair up at night, but make sure it is loose.
• Apply leave-in conditioner and oil to the ends, especially during busy periods.
• Rinse your hair with cold water at the last minute to reduce friction.
• Choose a comb and a soft brush with natural or polished nylon bristles.

These small changes can help strengthen your hair while your scalp calmly undergoes its natural change.

The role of your partner

It's surprising how much of a difference it makes when those around you are aware of your challenges. By supporting you in eating a healthy diet and encouraging the use of supplements, your partner can help minimize hair loss and strengthen your breastfeeding hair.

• Take the night shift once or twice a week so you have time to wash and care for your hair.
• Prepare a snack tray with protein-rich treats for those breastfeeding moments when you, as a mother, need an extra boost.
• Give a gentle scalp massage for just five minutes to show your care.
• Help remove outdated products from the bathroom.
• Ask what you need for the coming week and accept the support with open arms.

These small actions emphasize that you are not alone and help ease the mental and practical burden of everyday life.

When can you expect change?

For many mothers, the progression typically looks like this:

• Up to 2 months: Minor changes and minimal hair loss, partly due to postpartum hormonal fluctuations.
• 3 to 5 months: Noticeable hair loss with extra hair in the brush, often affecting breastfeeding hair.
• 6 to 9 months: Decreasing hair loss with new, shorter hairs beginning to appear.
• 9 to 12 months: A normalised rhythm for most people.
• 12 months and beyond: Individual variation, but for most people, hair growth is stabilising.

It is important to remember that everyone's body follows its own schedule. If you experience significant deviations in your development, or if something feels wrong, it is always a good idea to discuss it with your doctor. A proper diet and maintaining good health can help limit hair loss.

A short checklist for breastfeeding mothers

• Eat a protein-rich snack with each daytime feed.
• Drink a glass of water with each feed.
• Give yourself a short scalp massage every day.
• Set a reminder on your phone to take vitamin D and any other supplements that may contain biotin.
• Have a quick hairstyle ready for those busy moments.
• Place your brush, leave-in conditioner, and hair tie in an easily accessible place in the evening.

It may seem almost too simple - but that's exactly the point. In what can sometimes be a hectic maternity period, it's the small, simple routines that really make a difference.

What about exercise and hair?

Light physical activity benefits your mood, sleep quality, and circulation, and the positive energy can indirectly support hair follicles and reduce hair loss. In addition, regular exercise promotes a healthy lifestyle, which can be reflected in strong breastfeeding hair.

• Daily walks in the fresh air.
• Gentle strength training for your core and back when it feels right.
• Stretching exercises and deep breathing to help lower stress levels.

Remember that sweat can dissolve natural oils, so rinse your hair shortly after exercising. A quick rinse and a little conditioner on the lengths is often enough.

When your baby pulls your hair

It happens – little hands can easily find their way to your locks. With a little planning, you can avoid unnecessary breakage.

• Make sure to keep your hair away from your face while breastfeeding.
• Teach your baby to play with toys or a sensory cloth to keep their hands busy.
• Use soft clips without metal to protect your hair.

It's about finding the balance that makes everyday life comfortable for both you and your baby – not about being perfect. And remember that a healthy diet and good supplements can help maintain healthy breastfeeding hair, even when you experience a little hair loss.

A final word on patience

There will be days when everything clicks, and days when both your hair and your mood are a little off. Remember that breastfeeding hair and hair loss are temporary conditions that will gradually stabilize as your body returns to its normal rhythm. Be patient, be kind to your body, and remember that a varied diet, regular vitamins, and the right supplements can work wonders. In the meantime, it's important to be gentle with both your body and your hair, find small routines that feel right, and build your confidence. It's not just enough - it's absolutely sufficient during maternity leave, when love and presence fill everything.