Guest Blogger: Lauren Enriquez
Photo: Kelvin Agustinus
The New Mom Hair Blues
As a mom to two cute but very active toddlers, a full-time social media manager, and a part-time university student, I can totally relate to the stress and frustration of postpartum hair loss. It's a tough phase, but I've discovered some really effective hair hacks that have not only helped me manage my hair loss but have also promoted significant regrowth. I would love to share my story with you.
Why Postpartum Hair Loss Occurs
Let's get real about the hair journey during and after pregnancy – it's a wild ride! While we're rocking that pregnancy glow, estrogen levels skyrocket, giving us luscious thick, and full hair. But hold on, post-baby, our hormones take us on a rollercoaster. Estrogen levels plummet, and bam, the hair growth cycle does a flip.
Suddenly, more hair follicles decide it's time to rest (enter the telogen phase), and you might notice some extra shedding – it’s totally normal! Postpartum hair loss usually arrives on the scene three to six months after giving birth. But fear not, it's a temporary gig, and within a year, most of us see our hair returning to its fabulous normal self.
Genetics, overall health, and a bunch of other factors can be the DJs of this hair party, influencing how long and intense the postpartum shedding shindig is. Trust me, I get it – seeing clumps of hair fall can be a bit alarming. I know because I've been there, as a new mom and as a former chemotherapy patient. But remember, it's all part of the natural and temporary hair growth cycle.
My Strategies for Coping
I've felt the emotional impact of hair falling out, but I've found ways to cope and even promote regrowth holistically. There are so many paths to explore, from natural remedies like using a microroller and minoxidil, to essential nutrients and specialized hair supplements, to exercise and mindfulness practices. Let me tell you about my survival experience.
Minoxidil & Microneedling
Minoxidil, the topical superstar, is well-known for extending the growth phase of hair and nudging those strands to regrow. But here's the plot twist – when partnered up with microneedling (or dermarolling) it takes absorption to a whole new level. Think of it as a power-up move for minoxidil, making it more effective in promoting hair growth. The derma roller isn't just here to roll – it's creating micro-wounds that amp up blood flow to your scalp. This stimulates collagen and improves blood circulation, adding fuel to the hair growth fire. So, if you're on a mission for luscious locks, be sure to add this dynamic duo to your hair growth arsenal!
Supplements for Hair, Skin & Nails
Let me spill the tea on how supplements can be your secret weapon in the battle for a healthy mane. My choice is Hairmax Hair, Skin & Nails supplements but there are plenty of great brands available. Here is the dream team of vitamins and minerals you should scout out in your search:
Biotin (Vitamin B7): This one's the icon, often hailed as the "hair vitamin." You'll find it in hair care goodies, prenatal or postnatal vitamins, and foods like egg yolks, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes, and mushrooms. Watch out for biotin deficiency – it's a culprit for hair loss, but having enough can change everything, tackling inflammation and enhancing overall hair health.
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Another B-vitamin to the rescue! This bad boy might just be the key to preventing postpartum hair loss and giving your hair the TLC it deserves. It is also in peanuts and sunflower seeds.
Vitamin E: The hero your hair needs. It's got antioxidant energizers that kick oxidative stress in the scalp to the curb, leading to less shedding. Nature's way of saying, "Hey, let's keep that hair where it belongs!"
And wait, there's more! Look for Vitamin B6, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, Manganese, MSM, Plant Sterols (min. 40% beta-sitosterol), L-Cystine, DHA Concentrate, Saw Palmetto, Stinging Nettle Extract (root), Hyaluronic Acid, and He Shou Wu. Adding these dynamos into your routine will support hair health and minimize that dreaded postpartum hair loss.
Diet
My diet is all about protein, collagen, and lysine – the magical ingredients for accelerating hair growth.
First up is protein – the champion behind strong and fabulous hair. Load up on foods like lean meats, eggs, dairy, legumes, and nuts. They're not just delicious; they promote hair growth and keep those strands looking stunning.
Next, collagen – the secret agent for lovely hair! Find it in bone broth, fish, chicken, organ meat (think menudo,) and collagen-rich veggies. Collagen is like the fairy godmother of hair growth, ensuring your tresses stay resilient and vibrant.
And last but certainly not least, lysine. Lysine is the silent powerhouse that supports the absorption of iron and zinc, essential for keeping your hair on point. Eat foods like fish, chicken, eggs, legumes, and quinoa.
Make these protein-packed, collagen-infused, and lysine-loaded foods the staples of your diet. Your hair will thank you by growing stronger, shinier, and ready to turn heads.
Managing Stress
Exercise
Ready to crush stress and feel amazing? Get out and exercise! For me, weight training is my bestie for staying in tip-top condition postpartum.
It's not just about looking fab (though that's a bonus!). It's key for strengthening those abdominal muscles, boosting cardiovascular health, shedding those post-baby pounds, and giving you a stress-busting ticket to navigate motherhood like a boss.
But here's the secret sauce – team up with a trainer! (Did I forget to mention I was formerly a personal trainer?) Trainers are your fitness angels, tailoring workouts just for you, ensuring you exercise safely and effectively, and dropping golden nuggets of nutrition wisdom to fuel that postpartum fitness program.
And guess what? Exercise, especially weight training, is like a magic wand for your mood. It's been linked to better psychological well-being and stress relief – exactly what the new momma needs in her wellness stash.
So, don’t just manage stress, slay it! By adding exercise to your fitness routine, you’re showing yourself some serious self-love. Time to lift, laugh, and conquer.
Mindfulness and Relaxation
Stress can be a real troublemaker, messing with our hair and overall well-being. But fear not, because I’ll share some moves to manage it and create beautiful moments for us and our little ones.
For me, rocking my babies to sleep or reading them an enchanting bedtime story – not only are these moments pure bliss for my children, but they're also my ticket to stress-free paradise. Win-win!
Adding a sprinkle of positivity by watching a rom-com or listening to soothing music as part of your daily routine might just be the ultimate stress-buster. Create an atmosphere that's not just tranquil but also an emotional spa for your soul.
Sleep is our lifeline; it bolsters our resilience, patience, and overall well-being. In those rare moments of blissful rest, our bodies recharge, and our minds reset, ready to tackle the challenges of parenthood. It's not just about beauty sleep; it's about sanity sleep. Savor those stolen moments of sleep like the golden treasures they are.
Yoga, meditation, relaxation - these mindful practices aren't just for you – they're like a VIP pass to a peaceful haven for the whole family. Because let's be real, a happy mom equals a happy home.
Remember, moms, it's crucial to pamper ourselves and reach out for support when needed. Managing stress isn't just about saving our hair – it's a game-changer for our overall health and the happiness of our growing family. You've got this!
Get the Best Postpartum Hair Loss Products for You
We've got a solid plan to vanquish postpartum hair loss. Kick off with minoxidil and microneedling for epic hair growth. Nourish your locks from within with biotin supplements and prenatal vitamins. Amp up your fitness routine and eat protein-packed meals for overall awesomeness. Tame stress with relaxation and mindfulness. Keep your blood sugar, iron, zinc, and vitamin D levels in check. Treat your scalp to regular massages and rock a fresh haircut for that confidence lift. By combining these strategies, you're not just preventing hair loss – you're embracing this phase with positivity, looking and feeling fabulous!
Lauren Enriquez is the proud ‘mama shark’ of two little girls and the co-founder of rltrenew.com. Currently, she is pursuing her degree in psychology to help other women cope with the effects of chemotherapy and postpartum depression, including hair loss. Lauren is a breast cancer survivor.
