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I Finally Found What Works – 5 Best Shampoo For Postpartum Hair Loss

Abby G.
By Abby G.
Updated on September 17, 2024

My no.1 find is under £30 AND has a 150-day money back guarantee.

I thought I was prepared for everything after having my baby. But no one warned me about the clumps of hair in my shower drain. It wasn’t just hair – it felt like I was losing a piece of myself.

Postpartum hair loss hit me like a truck.

Between midnight feedings and diaper changes, I’d catch glimpses of my thinning hairline in the mirror. My ponytail, once thick and bouncy, now felt limp and sad.

I tried to laugh it off – but inside, I was panicking.

I scoured mommy forums and Facebook groups, desperately seeking solutions. My bathroom soon looked like the hair care aisle at my local pharmacy exploded.

Volumizing shampoos, biotin supplements, scalp treatments – you name it, I tried it. But nothing seemed to work.

I tried the usual stuff, until my breaking point

It was during a rare night out, three months postpartum, when reality hit hard. As I was getting ready, trying to style my hair to hide the thinning spots, I broke down in tears. My partner found me sobbing on the bathroom floor, surrounded by hair products and feeling utterly defeated.

That was my wake-up call. I realized I needed to approach this problem differently.

The science behind why it happens

I dove into research, determined to understand what was really happening to my hair. Here’s what I learned:

  1. Hormonal Rollercoaster: During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels keep hair in a prolonged growth phase. After delivery, the sudden drop in hormones causes a mass exodus of hair follicles into the resting phase, leading to increased shedding.
  2. Nutrient Depletion: Pregnancy and breastfeeding demand a lot from our bodies, often leaving us deficient in key nutrients essential for hair health.
  3. Stress Factor: The physical and emotional stress of childbirth and caring for a newborn can further impact hair growth cycles.
  4. Time Frame: Postpartum hair loss typically peaks around 3-4 months after delivery and can continue for up to a year.

Understanding the ‘why’ behind my hair loss was empowering, but I still needed a solution.

Finding the right way to combat postpartum hair loss

After weeks of research and countless disappointed hopes, I figured out a pattern that worked, to some extent. And one that stood out, but more on that later.

Here’s what I found to work on our hair:

1. Ingredients That Support Hair Follicle Health

During postpartum, your hair follicles can become weakened due to hormonal changes and nutrient depletion. Look for ingredients known to nourish and strengthen hair follicles. For instance, biotin (Vitamin B7) is essential for hair growth and health. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, which is common during the postpartum period. Iron and zinc can also help strengthen hair at the root, as these nutrients are often depleted after pregnancy.

2. Hormone-Free Formulas

Postpartum hair loss is largely hormonal, so it’s crucial to choose products that support hormonal balance. Opt for shampoos free from added hormones or ingredients that can interfere with your natural hormonal recovery, like parabens and sulfates. Look for natural or organic shampoos that promote a gentle approach and contain ingredients like saw palmetto or pumpkin seed oil, which may help balance hormones naturally.

3. Hydrating and Moisturizing Components

aloe vera

Hormonal changes postpartum can lead to a drier scalp and hair, making them more prone to breakage. Ingredients like natural oils (e.g., argan, coconut, jojoba), glycerin, and hyaluronic acid can help maintain moisture in the hair and scalp. These ingredients help keep hair strands strong and less prone to breakage, which is crucial when you’re already losing more hair than usual.

4. Growth-First Approach (The thing they never tell you)

Growth-First Approach (The thing they never tell you)

While companies line their pockets with our hard-earned money, we have to suffer day after day hoping our hair will regrow. Ingredients that focus on hair growth include, but are not limited to: caffeine, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, Capilia Longa, and collagen peptides. It’s important to note that some ingredients commonly used for hair growth, like minoxidil, may not be suitable for nursing mothers, so always consult with your healthcare provider.

Naturally, I embarked on a search to find shampoos that have all these qualities. Armed with science, I rigorously tested them, and here are my top picks. They are the best in my attempt to try and fix postpartum hair thinning.

5 best shampoos for postpartum hair thinning

These aren’t just shampoos; they are the result of my journey filled with learning and discovery. I do this so you don’t have to go through what I did.

Test Winner

1. Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Strength Shampoo – The Rolls-Royce

  • Description:

    The Hair Strength Shampoo by Scandinavian Biolabs caught my eye not because of flashy marketing, but because of their science-based approach and understanding of postpartum hair needs. But I highly recommend the bundle, so you get the full guarantee.

  • Rating:

    4.9

  • Pros:

    Noticeable results in hair thickness and strength

    Hormone-friendly formula

    Luxurious feel without harsh chemicals

    Complements a holistic hair care regimen

    No deal-breaking cons

  • Cons:

    Premium pricing, but excellent value-to-result ratio

    Sometimes out of stock due to high demand

I was skeptical – after all, I’d been burned before.

But their 150-day money-back guarantee gave me the confidence to give it a try. What did I have to lose, except more hair?

What really sealed the deal for me was the independent study carried out by the Capillary Technology Center over a five-month period. The results were incredible (and remember, they cannot lie about clinical results because it’s illegal):

  • First off, 93.3% of the volunteers experienced a reduction in hair loss, with an average decrease of 45.75% and a whopping peak reduction of 85.08%.
  • And get this, 73.3% of participants noticed a significant improvement in hair density, with an increase of up to 23.31% in capillary density.
  • They also found a 17.5% increase in hair in the anagen (growth) phase and a 36.5% decrease in the telogen (rest) phase after 150 days of use.
  • Plus, a remarkable 80% of the volunteers reported a moderate-to-intense reduction in hair loss.
  • But what really impressed me was that a whopping 93.3% of the participants were satisfied with the treatment’s impact on hair loss.

So, to me, it wasn’t even close to being a leap of faith.

Two months in, I noticed fewer hairs on my pillow and in the shower drain.

By month four, I saw new growth along my hairline. Sure, it wasn’t an overnight fix, but it was real, visible progress.

Now, 5 months postpartum, my hair is fuller, stronger, and I finally feel like myself again. I’m not back to my pre-pregnancy thickness yet, but for the first time, I’m confident I’ll get there.

To the mama reading this, feeling devastated by her thinning hair – I see you. I’ve been there. This phase is temporary, and there is hope.

You’re not vain for wanting your hair back.

You’re allowed to care about how you look, even as you navigate the beautiful chaos of new motherhood.

The Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Nutrient Bundle worked for me when nothing else did. I highly recommend you getting the bundle instead of the shampoo, because the guarantee is only valid on the bundle.

If you’re at your wit’s end like I was, it might be worth a try. And with their 150-day money-back guarantee, you’ve got nothing to lose – except those extra hairs in your shower drain.

Remember, you’re beautiful, you’re strong, and you’ve got this. Your hair will come back, mama. And in the meantime, there’s no shame in getting a little scientifically-backed help along the way.

2. Plantur 39 Phyto-Caffeine Shampoo – The Menopausal Hair Reviver

  • Description:

    As a woman in her mid-forties, finding a shampoo that addresses hair thinning specifically due to menopause was like striking gold. Plantur 39’s unique formula with phyto-caffeine works wonders in revitalizing hair growth. The addition of zinc and niacin boosts hair fullness and improves nutrient flow, making this an ideal choice for those struggling with menopausal hair changes.

  • Rating:

    4

  • Pros:

    Specially formulated for menopausal hair thinning. Phyto-caffeine stimulates hair growth effectively. Nourishing ingredients for overall hair health.

  • Cons:

    Some reviews mentioned moderate to extreme drying out of hair.

I tried this right before I tried the Scandinavian Biolabs. This was great, but I wanted more.

3. Pura D’or Anti-Hair Thinning Shampoo and Deep Moisturizing Conditioner – The Dynamic Duo

  • Description:

    I can’t stress enough the importance of a good conditioner alongside a shampoo. Pura D’or offers a compelling combination that not only reduces hair thinning but also boosts overall hair health. Ingredients like red Korean seaweed and black cumin seed oil nourish the scalp, while aloe vera and apple extracts keep hair smooth and luscious.

  • Rating:

    4

  • Pros:

    Comprehensive solution with both shampoo and conditioner. Rich in natural, hair-strengthening ingredients. Free from harmful chemicals and irritants.

  • Cons:

    Some reported more hair loss than they started with.

4. ThickTails Stimulating Hair Shampoo – The Growth Promoter

  • Description:

    This shampoo caught my eye for its bold claim of blocking DHT, a known culprit in hair loss. Whether it actually blocks it is unsure to me. Enriched with a mix of saw palmetto, caffeine, and biotin, it’s a boon for those seeking a serious boost in hair growth. It’s also reassuring to know it’s free from parabens and sulfates.

  • Rating:

    3.1

  • Pros:

    Potent ingredients targeting hair growth. DHT-blocking properties, if you want to go down that road. Suitable for color-treated hair.

  • Cons:

    Can dry out hair and might not work. Contains hormone-blocking elements which has certain side effects.

5. Bellisso Biotin Shampoo and Treatment Conditioner – The Nourishing Power Couple

  • Description:

    Combining biotin with hydrolyzed keratin, Bellisso offers a luxurious approach to tackling menopausal hair thinning. The biotin DHT blocker conditioner is particularly impressive, addressing a significant cause of hair loss. This pair is a great pick for those seeking to fortify their hair with essential vitamins.

  • Rating:

    3.1

  • Pros:

    Rich in biotin and keratin for strengthening hair. Effective DHT blocker. Suitable for all hair types, including colored hair.

  • Cons:

    Some people reported worse off hair after using it.

Why did I pick Scandinavian Biolabs?

After countless personal trials and disappointments, finding these gems was like discovering a hidden oasis. I’ve personally seen the transformation – from thin, lifeless strands to fuller, more vibrant hair. And the best part? If you’re skeptical or hesitant, my top pick Scandinavian Biolabs offers a unique 150-day money-back guarantee. It’s a testament to their confidence in their product and a safety net for us, the consumers.

What does postpartum mean for us?

Postpartum is a challenging yet beautiful phase, and while it brings its own set of hurdles, it doesn’t define us. Our hair can still be a crown of glory, even as we navigate the waters of new motherhood. The key is in choosing products that understand and cater to our unique needs during this time.

Remember, it’s not just about regaining hair thickness; it’s about reclaiming your confidence and embracing the beauty of this stage of life. With the right shampoo, a bit of patience, and a touch of self-love, you’re not just nurturing your hair – you’re celebrating your journey into motherhood.

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