After you give birth, it can help to be aware of skin and hair changes you might experience. Read on for tips on how to care for your skin and hair during your post-pregnancy phase.
Pregnancy changes your body in many invisible and visible ways — including your hair and skin. Some of these changes, like hyperpigmentation, can continue into the postpartum period.
The postpartum period for a mother or birthing parent starts when they give birth and continues for 6 weeks to 6 months.
Below, we go into what to expect from hair and skin changes after birth and how to adapt your routine.
Understanding postpartum skin and hair changes
Research suggests that the elevated estrogen people experience during pregnancy can have effects on the skin. Here are some common skin concerns that can occur with and after pregnancy:
- stretch marks
- eczema and dryness on the skin and scalp
- hyperpigmentation
- spider veins and related blood vessel issues
- nipple symptoms
- acne
Hair loss is also common in the postpartum period. Hair gets thicker during pregnancy and stays in one phase of growth for longer, but after giving birth, you might experience hair loss that feels sudden.
This form of stress-induced hair shedding is called telogen effluvium. It’s common and can last up to about 1 year after you give birth.
Many skin concerns that come with pregnancy and the postpartum period resolve on their own over a few weeks or months.
Here are a few everyday things you can do to help.
1. Reduce stress as much as possible
The postpartum period can be stressful. You’re vigilant about your baby’s well-being, you’re adapting to new routines, and you’re probably not getting much sleep, to name a few stressors.
But reducing stress may help reduce whole-body inflammation and can help with skin issues like eczema.
Consider asking loved ones to help with chores or meal prep, calling a friend if you’re feeling isolated, or having a loved one take the baby while you have a relaxing hot bath.
2. Opt for a gentle cleanser
To help prevent dryness, you’ll want to use a cleanser that leaves the skin’s natural moisture barrier intact and doesn’t strip the skin.
Aim to use a mild skin cleanser
- a slightly acidic pH
- surfactants (foaming agents) that will leave the skin intact, not strip it of its proteins and lipids
- humectants (substances that retain water)
- occlusives (creams that create a barrier to seal in the moisture)
- emollients (moisturizers that soften and smooth the skin)
Some new mothers experience acne. It’s a common skin concern in Black mothers postpartum, says Bukky Aremu, an advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in dermatology.
“Acne can clear up within a few weeks or months on its own, but medical treatment should be sought to prevent the risk of scarring,” Aremu says. “There are many topical agents that can be safely used even when breastfeeding, and even oral antibiotics may be required in severe cases.”
Whatever your skin concerns, make sure to avoid products with potential allergens or skin irritants.
3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
If you’re prone to eczema, you may be more likely to experience flares on your hands and wrists due to the frequent handwashing that comes with baby care.
To prevent hand eczema due to frequent handwashing, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests moisturizing your hands after every time you wash and recommends using moisturizers without fragrances or dyes.
“Using a sensitive, unscented moisturizer regularly can help soothe inflamed and itchy skin. Topical steroid creams are prescribed to calm inflamed skin and are safe to use even when breastfeeding,” says Aremu. “Using a gentle soap substitute and regular moisturizing even after the rash has settled will help prevent recurrence.”
4. Get the right nipple care
If you’re experiencing nipple cracking, dryness, soreness, or other symptoms related to breastfeeding, ask a healthcare professional for treatment recommendations.
Read more about nipple care while breastfeeding here.
5. Don’t skimp on the SPF
Hyperpigmentation on your skin from pregnancy can get darker if your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, including sunlight.
If you have hyperpigmentation, make sure to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen formulated to protect against UVA, UVB, and visible light.
It’s important to note that wearing sunscreen is important for everyone, including if you have darker skin, experts say.
“It’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before using any medication postpartum — this includes skincare products that contain retinol and hydroquinone and chemical sunscreens,” says Aremu.
If you’re losing hair in the postpartum period, know that shedding typically goes back to normal up to a year after giving birth.
If it’s bothering you, here are a few tips you can use to manage the situation and help your hair return to its non-pregnant state.
1. Be gentle on your locks
If you have dry hair or hair loss after pregnancy, make sure to be gentle on your hair. Tugging on the roots can damage the hair follicles.
As your hair is regrowing and returning to normal after pregnancy, consider:
2. Shampoo and condition for your hair type
If hair dryness is an issue for you postpartum, you may want to ask a hair stylist for suggestions on products that can help.
Different hair textures react differently to rich conditioners and other very hydrating products. Consider experimenting and trying a few different conditioning products to find the right fit for you.
Black and naturally textured hair
Hair loss and thinning hair are a top concern for more than half of African American women, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
If your hair is naturally thick and textured, your focus may be on covering up any obvious hair loss. Limpness may not be a concern, even if you have postpartum hair loss.
Some Black hair experts recommend hot oil treatments and deep conditioning treatments.
3. Consider supplements
If you’re low in one or more key nutrients, it may be affecting your hair.
Making sure you’re getting enough of these nutrients that help with hair growth
- vitamin D
- iron and vitamin C (taken together if you have low iron)
Folate, B12, and biotin have been investigated for their relation to hair loss and regrowth, but there’s
Consider asking your doctor to test you for nutrient deficiencies and recommend vitamins and supplements that might support your hair regrowth and postpartum recovery.
Consider vitamin D supplements if you have darker skin
About
Taking over-the-counter (OTC) vitamin D supplements is a quick, effective way to boost your levels for your hair and overall health. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a recommendation. You may want to get your vitamin D levels tested first to see if it’s a concern.
4. Try a volumizing hairstyle
As you wait for your hair to grow back after postpartum hair loss, consider getting a haircut that makes your hair look fuller. For example, some shorter haircuts can help give your hair a fuller look.
A shorter cut may also be easier to maintain, which can help when you’re devoting so much time to your new little one.
Pregnancy is an amazing process that changes many invisible and visible aspects of your body — your skin and hair included.
Most of these skin changes are temporary and shift back to the way they were prepregnancy after a few weeks or months. You don’t necessarily need to treat them. After all, you’re probably very focused on other things right now — like caring for a new baby!
But if they’re making you uncomfortable, incorporating a few targeted self-care activities into your routine can help.
