by maipham

May 15, 2022

best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

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After giving birth, your body naturally begins to return to its pre-pregnancy state. As your hormone levels return to normal, you may experience post-pregnancy hair loss.

Your body, including your hair, undergoes several changes during and after pregnancy. You might enjoy the effects of pregnancy on your hair while you are pregnant. Your estrogen levels begin dropping shortly after childbirth, causing hair loss after pregnancy.

Remember that you are not the only one experiencing this and that postnatal hair loss is not permanent. Nevertheless, there are too many types of vitamins so caregivers find it hard to choose the suitable one. Understanding your concern, we will explain why you are losing hair after pregnancy and provide you with the best vitamins to minimize postpartum hair loss.

What is postpartum hair loss? 

Postpartum hair loss is apparent since it surpasses daily hair loss of 100 hairs. Telogen effluvium, or excessive shedding, is the technical term for postnatal hair loss. Hormone variations in postpartum women cause more strands to reach the resting stage than typical, only to fall out a few weeks later. You might notice that you are losing up to 300 scythes per day.

Why do moms suffer from postpartum hair loss? 

Hair grows in cycles in most people (growing phase, resting phase, shedding phase: repeat). However, because of the significant changes in your hormones, most of your hair remains in the growth phase during pregnancy.

However, once your hormones start to shift (again) after the baby is born, estrogen levels drop, causing your gorgeous, thick head of pregnant hair to shed. The volume of hair loss appears to be considerably greater because so much of your hair falls all at once ( Similarly, clogged shower drains and hair tumbleweeds on your bathroom floor ).

How long does postpartum hair loss last?

You might be curious if postpartum hair loss will end if you just ignore it and don’t do anything. Will it only end once all of your hair has fallen and you become bold? Or tomorrow, or next week?

Because each body of the woman is unique, healing times vary. Postpartum hair loss can take up to three months for some people, and six months to a year for others. Keep in mind that this is only a temporary situation and that you will get through it.

You will not be able to prevent this type of hair loss after childbirth, but you may be able to aid in the creation of new, healthy hair.

How to prevent postpartum hair loss

Let me say it again: you will not be able to prevent postpartum hair loss. The root cause is the drop in hormones after giving birth.

You can take supplements to increase your hormone level, however, as it was already higher than usual during pregnancy, all the supplements in the world will not ever bring it back to that level. 

However, supplements can help to reduce hair loss and aid the hair growing process.

While you may notice some odd layers in your hair as it regrows (some mommies refer to their new hair regrowth as "baby bangs"), most moms discover that by their kid's first birthday, their hair has returned to normal.

Here are a few pointers to assist your hair re-growing while maintaining your confidence. Examine your options and see what works best for you.

  • To make your hair appear fuller and help new hair regrowth blend in, try a new haircut (with a bonus of less yanking from your baby)
  • When washing, brushing, and styling your hair, be gentle.
  • Avoid hairstyles that are too tight on your scalp and hair.
  • Some people advise that conditioning shampoos can weigh your hair down and make it appear thinner and limper, even though there is a lack of evidence. (avoid product names like 'intense conditioning,' since these can make your hair look limp).

  • Most importantly, to ensure that your body (and, as a result, your hair!) receives all of the nutrients it requires, eats well, and takes your vitamins daily.

Natural remedies for postpartum hair loss 

best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

Have you ever heard the phrase "you are beautiful on the inside and out?" It is accurate when it comes to our hair. Optimal nutritional intake can aid hair growth and protect hair and follicles.

Vitamins and nutrients may aid hair development by stimulating the formation of new cells throughout the body. Vitamins A, B, C, and D, as well as zinc, iron, protein, and selenium, aid in the formation of new hair and cells.

These vitamins and minerals promote the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. After bone marrow, your hair is the fastest growing tissue in your body.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is required for cellular growth in all parts of the body. It is also recognized for assisting in the production of sebum, an oil that moisturizes the scalp and promotes healthy hair development. Because Vitamin A is fat-soluble, it can be harmful if consumed in large amounts.

Food sources:

Vegetables with a lot of leafy greens (kale, spinach, broccoli), or orange and yellow veggies (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and other winter squash, summer squash)

  • Tomato
  • Red bell pepper
  • Mango, cantaloupe
  • Beef liver
  • Omega-3 fatty acids from fish
  • Dairy

Vitamin B

Thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), vitamin B6, biotin (B7), folate (B9), and vitamin B12 are the eight water-soluble vitamins that make up the vitamin B complex. Hair loss has been linked to vitamin deficiencies in certain nutrients.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a combination of two separate essential coenzymes that play important roles in cellular growth and function, including hair cell formation and function.

Vitamin B7 (biotin) is believed to promote hair growth by boosting keratin formation in the hair and promoting hair follicle expansion. Because biotin is water-soluble, it can not be stored by the body and must be ingested to be effective.

Vitamin B9 (folate) is vital for DNA and gene production. Vitamin B9 is also required by your body for cell division. B9 vitamin includes the cells located within your skin tissues and those found in your hair growth and fingernails.

Vitamin B12 is required for DNA synthesis and the creation of red blood cells. Bringing new blood to your hair cells and follicles. Working with folate-producing nucleic acid may play a role in hair follicle proliferation.

The other vitamin B complexes aid in the formation of new red blood cells, which transport fresh oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles, encouraging hair growth.

Food sources

  • Animal liver and kidneys
  • Clams
  • Sardines
  • Beef
  • Fortified cereal
  • Tuna
  • Fortified nutritional yeast
  • Trout
  • Salmon
  • Non-dairy milk
best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that protects you from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Damage from free radicals can lead your hair to age and stop growing. Vitamin C is also required for the production of the crucial protein collagen, which is essential for hair structure.

Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron, a mineral that is required for hair development.

Food sources:

  • Citrus fruit, such as oranges and orange juice.
  • peppers.
  • strawberries.
  • blackcurrants.
  • broccoli.
  • brussels sprouts.
  • potatoes.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for the stimulation of both new and old hair follicles. When your body is deficient in vitamin D, new hair growth can be slowed. When you are in direct sunshine, your body creates vitamin D automatically.

Vitamin D also aids calcium absorption in the body, making you a strong, attractive mother.

Food sources

  • Cod liver oil.
  • Salmon.
  • Swordfish.
  • Tuna fish.
  • Orange juice fortified with vitamin D.
  • Dairy and plant milk is fortified with vitamin D.
  • Sardines.
  • Beef liver.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, like vitamin C, is an antioxidant that helps you from free radical-induced oxidative damage. These free radicals can stifle hair growth and cause it to age prematurely.

 According to one study, after taking vitamin E over eight months, persons with hair loss had a 34.5 % boost in hair growth.

best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

Food sources:

  • Wheat germ oil.
  • Sunflower, safflower, and soybean oil.
  • Sunflower seeds.
  • Almonds.
  • Peanuts, peanut butter.
  • Beet greens, collard greens, spinach.
  • Pumpkin.
  • Red bell pepper.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral for biological activities, including hair development. Iron is a mineral that your body uses to make hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen from your lungs to your cells in red blood cells.

The combination of iron and vitamin C boosts your body to absorb up to six times more iron, assisting with hair growth!

Food sources

  • Red meat, pork, and poultry.
  • Seafood.
  • Beans.
  • Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach.
  • Dried fruit, such as raisins and apricots.
  • Iron-fortified cereals, bread, and pasta.
  • Peas.
best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

ZinC

Zinc aids in the structural support of proteins involved in the formation of new cells, tissue, and DNA. It also helps the oil glands that surround the follicles to operate normally. All of this helps with hair growth and restoration.

It also helps to support your immune system and prevent you from infections.

Food sources

  • Meat
  • Shellfish 
  • Legumes
  • Seeds
  • Nuts
  • Dairy
  • Eggs
  • Whole Grains.

Protein

Have you ever noticed that protein makes up nearly all of your hair? Consumption of this vitamin is therefore critical for hair growth. Amino acids, the basic building blocks of proteins, aid in the formation and repair of cells such as collagen.

Fortunately, protein may be found in a variety of foods.

Food sources

  • Lean meats – beef, lamb, veal, pork, and kangaroo.
  • Poultry and bush birds.
  • Fish, prawns, crab, lobster, mussels, oysters, scallops, and clams are forms of seafood.
  • Eggs
  • Dairy products

Selenium

Selenium is essential for the synthesis of around 35 proteins, the majority of which are found in your hair. Selenium proteins are involved in the synthesis of DNA and the production of thyroid hormones. Hair follicles can absorb selenium in their matrix during keratinization because they receive nutrients through the blood.

Selenium also defends the skin from free radical damage as well as infection.

Food sources

  • Brazil nuts
  • Tuna
  • Halibut
  • Sardines
  • Roasted ham
  • Shrimp
  • Enriched macaroni
  • Turkey

Some vitamins for postpartum hair loss 

best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

Before ever buying any supplements, I thought all of those vitamins can be found in food. So why bother spending money (a very big sum of money) on capsule vitamins?

Because vitamins are considered vital nutrients because they play hundreds of roles in the body when they work together. They assist in the restoration of bones, recovery from injury, and the immune system. In addition, they heal cellular damage and convert food into energy.

When we cook our daily meals, it is hard to evaluate the nutrition for each meal so taking vitamins can be a good solution. Also, some picky eaters might not like some nutritious food but if we do not consume it, our bodies will lack nourishment. In that case, they can choose to have vitamins to get some victuals to their bodies. 

SugarBear Vegan Gummy Hair Vitamins with Biotin

About the product

The vitamins were for people who wanted easy-to-take vitamins without the hassle of swallowing tablets. Increase hair strength and improve overall health. Clinical investigations have proven that these substances can help enhance hair health, and this product is vegan-based.

Specs

Two gummies a day, at any time.

60 counts/Pack

Key ingredients

13 vitamins and minerals include Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, and more.

What we like

  • Tasty flavor
  • The fast result after 3 months
  • Gelatin free.
  • Dairy-free.
  • Gluten-free
  • Gummies form

What we don't like

  • For some people, a breakout might happen
  • Biotin side effects happen ( Dark urine,...)
  • Overprice

Nature’s Bounty Biotin, Supports Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails, 10000 mcg, Rapid Release Softgels, 120 Ct

About the product

Nature's Bounty Biotin Softgels are the consequences of nearly 50 years of commitment to quality, consistency, and scientific study to create unequaled vitamins and nutritional supplements. Biotin is a regularly utilized vitamin for healthy hair, and Nature's Bounty Biotin is the best-selling product.

Specs

120 counts/ pack

Key ingredients

Biotin, Soybean Oil, Gelatin, Vegetable Glycerin, Yellow Beeswax, Titanium Dioxide Color.

What we like

  • Fast results
  • Non-GMO
  • Contain no gluten and sugar
  • Keep the energy metabolism going

What we don't like

  • The product is smelly
  • Easy to melt
  • The digestive issue might happen due to the high dose of biotin

Nature Made Postnatal Multivitamin

About the product

This postnatal multivitamin is developed with vital vitamins and minerals to help mom and baby get the nutrients they need while breastfeeding. It is considered Amazon's Choice product and has vital vitamins and minerals to help mom and baby get the nutrients they need while breastfeeding.

Specs

60 counts/ pack

The nursing mom takes one soft gel daily with a meal.

Key ingredients

Multivitamins. Each serving (1 soft gel) has postnatal Vitamins A, C, D3, E, and K, plus all 8 B vitamins. Also, it involves DHA, Iron, Calcium, Iodine, Magnesium, and Zinc.

What we like

  • There are no artificial flavors or sweeteners in this product
  • The result happens fast
  • Apart from reducing hair loss, it also helps with lactation

What we don't like

  • The product might smell fishy
  • The pills are big so they are easy to stuck in your throat if you do not swallow carefully

Nature Made Prenatal Multivitamin

About this product

A 250-day supply of Nature Made Prenatal Multivitamin with Folic Acid Tablets is added to this prenatal nutritional support supplement. Nature Made Prenatal Multivitamin is a prenatal multivitamin supplement that promotes the brain, bone, eye, and nervous system health of an infant. This product is a gluten-free, artificial-flavor-free multivitamin supplement for women.

Specs

250 counts/ pack

A count per day for adults

Key ingredients

Multivitamins. Each serving (1 soft gel) provides postnatal Vitamins A, C, D3, E, K, plus all 8 B vitamins. It also has DHA, Iron, Calcium, Iodine, Magnesium, and Zinc.

What we like

  • It can boost the daily energy
  • Apart from hair growth, It also helps moms to produce more milk

What we don't like

  • The pills smell fishy
  • The bigger size of pills

Nature's Bounty Optimal Solutions Advanced Hair

About this product

With the new Nature's Bounty enhanced hair, skin, and nail gummies, you can give your beauty regimen a boost. Each serving contains 6000mcg of biotin, twice as much as our leading hair, skin, and nails gummy mix. Biotin supports beautiful hair, glowing skin, and healthy nails. Our updated formula is Non-GMO and now contains vitamin A, which is crucial for preserving skin health and is bursting with the same wonderful Strawberry flavor. Our tasty gummies are also crafted with naturally sourced colors and tastes, making them the ideal supplement to your hair, skin, and nail care program from the No. 1 brand.

Specs

200 counts/ pack

Two gummies per day for adults

Preferably with a meal.

Key ingredients

Biotin, Vitamin E, Vitamin A

What we like

  • Gummies form
  • Tasty
  • It really helps with growing hair and nails

What we don't like

  • Easy to melt

Final thought on the best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

best vitamins for postpartum hair loss

Every new mother has hair loss following birth, and there is nothing out of the ordinary about it. To get rid of your hair fall problems, mommies should try these simple home remedies.

Remember to eat well, drink plenty of water, and stay away from all types of stress. Stressing about it may have the opposite effect on postpartum hair loss. All things moms have to do is leave the hair some time to recover from unhealthy foods and unhealthy habits, and yours will be back to its former beauty.

About the author 

Mai Pham

Mai Pham discovered her passion for writing a few years ago and she never stop thinking about it ever since. She finally took the leap and created Live a Worthy Life to brag about her smart ass (mainly just for fun). Enjoyed the fun writing brings, now with her new interest in everything-baby-related, she created Mommy Instinct, to tell mamas that it's ok that they mess up, that they don't know what the hell they are doing, and that it's okay to sit back and relax for a while.

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