How long will postpartum hair loss last?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Postpartum hair loss is a common physiological phenomenon among women after giving birth, but it is unpredictable how long the hair loss will last. For most women, postpartum hair loss can persist for six months to a year, after which hair growth gradually returns to normal. It is important to prevent hair loss after childbirth. For example, it is advisable not to wash hair too frequently; washing every three days is generally sufficient. Additionally, it is important to enhance nutrition and maintain a balanced diet, as the most important source for hair is protein. Therefore, consuming more protein-rich foods is recommended.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
1min 9sec home-news-image

What is hair loss lacking?

Hair loss is often related to deficiencies in vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B, and trace elements including iron, zinc, and calcium. It is also related to the lack of nutritional factors, such as a deficiency in high-quality protein, which can lead to hair loss. Hair loss can be associated with many factors, including nutrition, diet, neurological and mental factors, as well as certain diseases including endocrine disorders and immune system diseases that can cause hair loss. Therefore, when experiencing hair loss, it's important to carefully analyze the reasons, and visit a hospital to determine the specific causes. If the cause is a deficiency in trace elements and vitamins, appropriate supplements should be provided. If it is caused by diseases, timely treatment of the primary disease is necessary. In terms of diet, it is also important to consume foods rich in protein and vitamins.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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When does postpartum hair loss begin?

Postpartum hair loss generally begins three months after childbirth and is a normal physiological phenomenon. In medicine, it is also known as telogen effluvium postpartum. The main reason for hair loss is related to changes in estrogen levels in the body after pregnancy. During pregnancy, the increased levels of estrogen slow down the rate of hair loss and extend the life of hair. However, after giving birth, hormone levels gradually decrease and the hair loses hormonal support, leading to hair loss. This condition typically starts around three months postpartum and can gradually improve around six months after childbirth.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Does spleen deficiency cause hair loss?

Generally, patients with spleen deficiency may experience symptoms of hair loss. However, not all hair loss is due to spleen deficiency. If hair loss is induced by spleen deficiency, it generally needs to be treated by addressing the spleen deficiency regularly to see effective improvement. Diet can also help by eating more walnuts and black sesame, and by increasing the intake of high-quality proteins and vitamins. For example, consuming more eggs, fish, and oranges can greatly boost the body's immunity and provide effective nourishment.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How to deal with seborrheic hair loss and itchy scalp?

Scalp itching associated with seborrheic hair loss can arise from two possible scenarios. One is that the itching is due to seborrheic dermatitis accompanying the hair loss. The other possibility is that the scalp, being greasy, provides a conducive environment for the proliferation of microbes, leading to a fungal infection of the scalp, which then results in itching and increased dandruff. In cases of seborrheic dermatitis, the affected area may show erythema and papules with oily scales or crusts, and there may even be exudation, crusting, and erosion, resembling eczema. The local treatment should primarily focus on degreasing, anti-inflammation, and itch relief. When fungal infection is also present, antifungal treatment becomes the priority. Ketoconazole shampoo can be used in such cases, applied three times a week for a period of 6-8 weeks.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can seborrheic hair loss grow back?

Seborrheic alopecia, also medically known as androgenic alopecia, is generally more common in men, with a relatively lower incidence rate in women. The occurrence of this disease is mostly related to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands, or it can be said to have a certain relation to family genetics. The condition can be improved with standard treatment, but it may not fully recover, especially for patients with severe symptoms, such as receding hairlines or baldness, who find treatment rather challenging. Generally, standard treatment at a dermatology department of a formal hospital can restore about 80% of the original condition, which is considered quite effective. Complete recovery is generally difficult to achieve clinically. Treatment can include oral and topical medications, and can also be complemented with long-term conditioning using traditional Chinese medicine.