When does postpartum hair loss begin?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on September 01, 2024
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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 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 hair loss be inherited?

Hair loss generally has two common types: alopecia areata and seborrheic alopecia. Seborrheic alopecia has a certain hereditary nature, whereas alopecia areata does not have a hereditary aspect. Most cases are related to deficiencies in vitamins, trace elements, or low immunity. Seborrheic alopecia has some hereditary factors and is a genetic disease carried by males in the family. Once this disease occurs, it is not easy to completely eradicate and tends to worsen with age. Generally, one can take oral medications to reduce oil secretion, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and avoid staying up late and stress. It is advisable to wash hair with lukewarm or cold water, and avoid using very hot water. After recovery, it is important to exercise more, consume more vegetables and fruits, and supplement vitamins and trace elements.

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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 Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Can sulfur soap be used to wash hair for seborrheic alopecia?

If you are experiencing seborrheic hair loss, it is not recommended to use sulfur soap for shampooing. This is because sulfur has a degreasing effect and can treat seborrheic dermatitis, but sulfur is irritating to the scalp. Its strong degreasing effect on the scalp can alter the scalp's microecological environment, which is not conducive to the normal growth and recovery of hair. Therefore, it is not advisable to use sulfur soap for shampooing when experiencing seborrheic hair loss. With the advancement of science, many dandruff treatment and hair growth promoting skincare products can be used for shampooing. We can choose these types of products which cause less damage to the scalp barrier and are more gentle in degreasing, avoiding major irritation and facilitating the recovery of the scalp.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How to treat hair loss?

There are many types of hair loss, such as sudden localized patchy hair loss known as alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia which is related to genetic factors and dependent on the action of androgens, also known as seborrheic alopecia, as well as postpartum hair loss due to insufficient qi and blood after childbirth, and telogen effluvium caused by rapid weight loss or dieting. The specific treatment of hair loss should be based on the corresponding cause. The cause of alopecia areata is not completely clear, and it is related to factors such as emotions, stress, endocrine disruption, and autoimmunity. Treatment generally includes oral intake of compound glycyrrhizin tablets and topical application of minoxidil. If the skin lesions are widespread or severe, the combination of corticosteroid treatment may be considered, and treatment generally lasts several months or even longer. Androgenetic alopecia often occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 and is related to familial genetics. The treatment of this condition lacks very effective remedies. Treatment options include topical minoxidil, and oral intake of finasteride. Traditional Chinese medicine has relatively good effects in treating androgenetic alopecia, including the oral intake of Chinese herbal medicine and local acupuncture treatment. Attention should be paid to avoiding staying up late and maintaining a light diet. When the hair follicles have already closed, local hair transplantation can be carried out, transferring hair from the occipital region of the scalp to the top. If the area of androgenetic alopecia is too large without sufficient follicles for transplantation, then the use of a wig should be considered. (Note: Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)