Expert tips for postpartum skin and hair

Discover expert tips for managing those postpartum skin and hair changes.

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Those early months with a newborn are often a whirlwind of sleepless nights, nappy changes and getting to know your little one. Unfortunately, they’re also accompanied by delightful hormonal fluctuations. As well as being responsible for how you feel emotionally, these changes in hormones can also affect skin and hair.

If you're noticing some significant changes post-baby, you're not the only one. The good news? These changes are temporary and will start to get back to normal around the six-month phase.

Until then, here's how to navigate this new phase.

Coping with post-baby hair loss

Did you know most women lose about 100 hairs daily? But for new mums, this can jump to 500 after giving birth. This can feel like a lot, especially after enjoying the thick hair pregnancy hormones provide. The increased hair loss is usually most noticeable around three to four months postpartum.

Michelle Baynham, founder of Mother Fit, a prenatal and postnatal wellness platform, says that some hair loss after pregnancy is only natural, but having a balanced approach to your diet will help.

She says: “By eating a balanced diet, limiting processed foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking and alcohol, you're giving your body the nutrients it needs to support the natural growth of your hair and overall wellbeing.”

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Choose your products wisely

Since your hair's going through a bit of a rollercoaster right now, it's time to pamper it. Ditch those tight hairstyles, take a break from the heated styling tools, and maybe swap out your usual shampoo for something a little more gentle. And when it's wet, detangle with a wide-tooth comb or a Tangle Teezer to avoid any unnecessary breakage.

Want to give your hair a little extra boost? Try products that thicken your hair or add volume, like Living Proof’s Thickening Blow Dry Cream. Another trick is to blow-dry your hair with a big, round brush — it's a super simple way to create the illusion of fuller, thicker hair.

Finally, give yourself a relaxing scalp massage. It not only feels amazing, but it can also improve blood circulation to your scalp, which might even help your hair grow back faster.

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Navigating skin changes

Remember those teenage breakouts? Or that time your skin felt like sandpaper?

Well, after giving birth, your hormones can take you right back there. Thanks to the fluctuations of oestrogen and progesterone, your skin might suddenly throw a tantrum – whether it's with surprise acne or newfound sensitivities to your trusty products.

Just like with hair, the key is to scrap any harsh chemicals and stick to a simple routine that uses products that are designed to be gentle on the skin. A cleansing balm is a good option, especially for dry skin.

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Protect and nourish

Even with those pesky breakouts, don't ditch the moisturiser. Just make sure you're choosing one that won't clog your pores – think lightweight gels instead of heavy creams.

And if you're not a sunscreen fanatic (yet), look for a moisturiser with a high SPF (30 or above) already built in. Why? Because those wild hormones combined with a little sunshine can sometimes cause melasma – dark patches on your face.

Don't forget as well to make sure you’re drinking enough water, to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. This is especially important if you’re breastfeeding as your overall fluid intake needs to increase during this time.

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