Hair Changes & Hair Care

Hair is part of the skin system, and like the skin, your changing hormones affect its structure. Differences in hair texture, like skin texture, will vary from woman to woman, but you can be assured that by sometime in the second trimester, your hair will probably change. What changes will you see?

More hair. Pregnancy hormones lessen the rate at which hair falls out. So during pregnancy you may notice fewer hairs on your brush and more hair on your head. Most pregnant women love this change.

The extra hair that pregnancy gives, it takes away in the postpartum period. Hair loss will be noticeable from about two to four months after birth, longer if you are breastfeeding. Noticing all that extra hair on your brush or pillow may be scary. By a year after delivery, you will have your pre-pregnancy hair back.

Different hair. Though you are likely to have more hair, it may be different. In pregnancy, dry hair can become drier, oily hair more oily, curly hair may become straight or straight hair may curl. Individual hairs may become finer or thicker. Hair will take a perm and color differently, too.

Unwanted hair. Hair may begin to grow in areas women wish it didn't, namely the face, abdomen, back, and legs. Some women notice that their leg hair growth seems to slow down during pregnancy.

1. Choose a style to complement your hair and face. For example, if your hair is thicker and your face has become fuller, a longer hairstyle that embraces your face may be becoming. On the other hand, if your already long hair has become drier or more brittle, a shorter hairstyle may be more flattering and easy to take care of. A straight style can show off the luster of oilier hair; a layered look can hide flyaway dryness.

2. Experiment with different shampoos. If your hair is dry, shampoo less frequently, and use a mild, low-detergent shampoo that does not wash away the natural oils from the scalp. Also, use a moisturizing conditioner.

3. Towel dry instead of using a blow dryer. If your hair is too oily, shampoo your hair more frequently.

4. Go natural. When your body image needs a lift, a change of hairstyle and a better tinting can help. Though permanents and long-term hair dyes are probably safe while pregnant, they are not advisable. Safest while you are pregnant is to enjoy the hair coloring nature gave you and to promise yourself a new look after you have given birth.