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Prevent Hair Fall During Pregnacy

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  • March 14, 2021
  • MKB Team

Read this article to understand how to handle hair fall during pregnancy with natural remedies.

Hair Fall & Pregnancy - is this normal?

A hair fall pregnancy symptom is normal. During pregnancy, many women experience hair-fall although post-delivery hair loss is more common in comparison.

Reasons for Hair Fall during Pregnancy and the causes for hair fall

The hormone oestrogen is responsible for good hair in pregnant women as it prevents the hair follicle from falling. But some women experience hair loss during pregnancy for health reasons or on account of hormonal imbalances.  

Here are the common causes of pregnancy hair loss:

  1. Lack of proper nutrition

Inadequate nutrition and a deficiency of iron, vitamins, and minerals can cause hair loss during pregnancy.

  1. Stress

A combination of stress, fear and nervousness during pregnancy may lead to hair fall and thinning.

  1. Poor health and medications

Health conditions like gestational diabetes may cause hair loss, and so can certain medications for blood pressure or depression.

  1. Skin allergies and scalp infections

Consult a doctor if there is hair loss in some areas of your scalp as this can be caused by skin allergies and scalp infections.

  1. Poor quality hair care products

Certain shampoos and hair conditioners contain harmful chemicals that may cause hair loss as your hair and skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy. Avoid these.

How to control hair fall during pregnancy?

You could reduce hair loss by doing the following:

  1. Regular scalp massage

This can also increase hair growth. Massage your hair religiously at least twice a week. Choose natural oils like coconut, jojoba, almond, olive etc. Apply lukewarm oil to massage your scalp before bedtime or a couple of hours before your bath. This improves blood circulation and the minerals of the oil seep deep into the layers of your scalp, nourishing and strengthening those hair follicles.

  1. Healthy diet

A healthy diet packed with minerals, proteins, and vitamins ensures that the body gets the lost nutrients and enhances hair health. Include fresh fruit and veggies rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, minerals, and vitamins. Drinking lots of fluids is a must to flush out toxins from the body.

  1. Avoid styling products

Don’t use hair dyes, styling and straightening products because the chemicals in them may cause hair loss during pregnancy. Comb your hair gently using a wide-bristled comb. Avoid using a wet comb that causes further hair loss.

  1. Use good-quality hair care products

Use tried and tested natural hair products like an effective natural shampoo and a nutrient-rich conditioner that strengthens those hair follicles.

Home remedies to treat hair fall in pregnant women

Some home remedies are effective for hair fall in pregnancy:

  1. Warm Oil Massage

A head massage with lukewarm oil is a great natural therapy. Coconut, almond, jojoba, olive and mustard oils enhance scalp nourishment.

  1. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe-Vera extracts are extensively used to treat skin disorders. Apply the gel on your scalp to cure dryness and infection thereby reducing hair fall.

  1. Go Organic

Natural products are safe. It’s advisable to use organic products for your hair.

  1. Antibacterial Neem

The medicinal herb, Neem, battles hair fall brought about by skin infections thanks to its antibacterial properties. Apply a paste of fresh Neem leaves on to your scalp to prevent bacterial growth.

  1. Amla

Amla strengthens hair and is the best natural remedy for hair fall. You can either consume Amla powder orally or massage its oil onto your scalp.

  1. Fresh Coconut Milk

Scalp nourishment is important. Prepare half a cup of fresh coconut milk and massage it into the scalp with your fingertips. Let it sit for about half an hour to get absorbed and then rinse it using a herbal shampoo.

  1. Lemon Juice

Get silky and thick hair and also prevent hair loss! Just add one tablespoon of lemon juice to one beaten egg. Apply this mix to your scalp; let it rest for about half an hour, and rinse.

  1. Soaked Fenugreek Seeds

Give lustre to your hair and bring about hair growth! Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and make a fine paste. Massage your hair with the paste and rinse it after 3-4 hours.

  1. Egg, Yogurt and Olive Oil

Condition your hair deeply with a mix of egg, yoghurt, and olive oil. Make a paste with equal quantities of these three ingredients and apply on your scalp once a week.

Tips to take care of your hair during pregnancy and after delivery

Here are a few tips to help you take care of your hair during and post pregnancy.

  • Protect your scalp from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Increase intake of vegetables and fruits, especially those with high water content.
  • Have your blood tests done to ensure normal thyroid levels.
  • Don’t brush or comb your hair repeatedly, especially when wet.
  • Instead of a fine-tooth comb, use a wide-toothed one to brush your hair.
  • Trim your hair at regular intervals to avoid split ends, as it increases hair fall.

 

Did you enjoy reading this article? Do you have some tips or home remedies to reduce hair fall during and after pregnancy? We’d love to hear from you. Do write in!

 

Q & A

You ask and we answer!

Is it common to lose hair during pregnancy?

Shagun Narang, Chandigarh.

Some women may experience hair thinning and shedding due to stress or shock. This condition is called telogen effluvium, and it affects a small number of women during pregnancy. The first trimester may stress the body as the balance of hormones shifts dramatically to support the growing baby.

How can I make my hair grow faster while pregnant?

Manisha Lamba, Navi Mumbai.

Use a wide-toothed comb when brushing wet hair and use the cool setting on your hairdryer. Massage warm coconut or sesame oil into your scalp two to three times a week to stimulate growth and reduce hair fall.


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MKB Team

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