Beauty

5 Simple Tips to Maintain Healthy and Beautiful Hair, Minimize Hair Loss During Pregnancy

Maintain healthy and beautiful hair that is less prone to breakage by following these essential tips.

21 February, 2024

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The pregnancy stage leads to many changes in the body, and hair is no exception. Hair loss can continue after giving birth. The cause of hair loss can be attributed to stress.

This hair loss condition can also be due to hormonal changes that may not happen immediately. Instead, it may take about 2-4 months for you to notice thinner hair.

You can maintain healthy and less hair loss by taking care of your hair properly with the following “tips”:

Avoid using chemicals

During pregnancy, let your hair rest. Although there is no study proving that hair dyes affect the pregnancy process, harsh chemicals can potentially penetrate the scalp and affect the fetus.

Eat a nutritious diet

You should focus on supplementing enough protein and iron, as these are essential nutrients for maintaining strong and healthy hair. Protein-rich foods include lean meat, eggs, milk, beans, and various nuts. To supplement iron, pregnant women should consume beef, duckweed, and broccoli…

Avoid tying your hair too tightly

The habit of tying your hair too tightly makes it weaker and more prone to damage and hair loss. Additionally, tightly tied hair can cause headaches and discomfort for pregnant women. It is recommended to use loose hair accessories during pregnancy, such as silk scarves or fabric scrunchies. Keep your hair down to allow it to rest.

Gently shampoo and use a wide-toothed comb to brush your hair

When shampooing, gently massage your hair, avoiding vigorous scratching as this can damage the scalp and cause hair breakage. Massaging helps stimulate blood circulation, relax the scalp, and promote faster and thicker hair growth. After shampooing, don’t forget to use conditioner to provide moisture and nutrients.

Wet hair is more fragile and prone to damage and breakage. Ideally, pregnant women should wait for their hair to dry before brushing it with a wide-toothed comb to minimize damage.

Avoid styling your hair with heat tools

Familiar hair styling tools such as hair dryers and curling irons can cause dryness, and excessive hair loss.

Pregnant women should limit the use of heat styling tools or avoid using hot air mode on hair dryers. Instead, focus on restoring and nourishing the hair with products such as hair oils and hair masks.

When nearing childbirth, pregnant women may opt for short hair. Short hair will give a fuller and more voluminous appearance. Furthermore, by removing dry and split ends, the hair will appear healthier and more vibrant. Short hair is less burdensome, reducing pressure on the scalp and minimizing hair breakage.

After giving birth, having short hair also helps new mothers save time in washing and styling their hair, and is more convenient for taking care of the baby.

Frequently asked questions

Pregnancy is a time when women need to take extra care of their hair as hormonal changes can lead to hair loss and other issues. Here are some tips: eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients like biotin, vitamin C, and zinc; use mild, natural hair care products; avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp; gently massage the scalp to improve blood circulation; and manage stress through relaxation techniques.

Eating a nutritious diet is key. Include foods rich in biotin like eggs, nuts, and seeds, as well as vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables to boost collagen production. Also, incorporate zinc-rich foods like lean meats, legumes, and seafood to support hair growth and maintain scalp health.

Stress can contribute to hair loss, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage it. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga. Also, ensure you’re getting enough sleep and creating time for activities you enjoy. These can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.

Yes, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals and opt for natural, mild hair care products. Stay away from shampoos with sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils. Also, avoid products with parabens, phthalates, and artificial fragrances. Instead, look for natural alternatives like plant-based shampoos and conditioners, and use gentle, nourishing hair masks.

Yes, tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp can contribute to hair loss. It’s best to avoid styles like tight ponytails, braids, or buns that put tension on the hair follicles. Opt for looser styles that don’t pull or strain the scalp, and be gentle when brushing or combing your hair.