Postpartum hair loss: how long does it last?
Postpartum hair loss is common and normal: it often begins 2 to 4 months after giving birth and generally resolves before the child's first birthday. It is hormonal in origin.
By the Luxéol team · Reading time: 6 min · Updated on 9 July 2026
Key points to remember
- Postpartum hair loss is hormonal, common and temporary.
- It generally begins 2 to 4 months after giving birth.
- It most often resolves before your baby's first birthday.
- Support the hair fibre and take care of yourself; regrowth follows.
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding, seek advice before taking any supplement.
Why does hair loss occur after giving birth?
During pregnancy, hormones prolong the hair growth phase: less hair falls out and the hair appears fuller. After giving birth, hormone levels drop and many hairs that were “on hold” suddenly shift into the shedding phase. It is this synchronisation that creates the impression of losing a lot of hair.
How long does it last?
Hair loss generally starts 2 to 4 months after birth and may last for several months. In the vast majority of cases, everything returns to normal before the child's first birthday, without any specific intervention.
What should you do?
- Take care of your diet and rest as much as possible.
- Adopt gentle practices (loose hairstyles, less heat).
- Use targeted treatments to reduce hair loss and strengthen the hair fibre.
- During breastfeeding, check that products are suitable and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
The Luxéol solution
The Reactive Hair Loss range supports temporary hair loss, including after childbirth, to reduce hair loss and strengthen the hair fibre. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, seek advice from a healthcare professional before taking a food supplement.
Luxéol Reactive Hair Loss range
Shampoo, conditioner, mask and spray enriched with keratin (patented process), to help reduce reactive hair loss and strengthen the hair fibre. Clinical results: −61% hair loss with the spray and −44% with the shampoo*, after 3 months. Sulphate-free, made in France.
When should you seek advice?
Seek advice if hair loss persists beyond a year, is very significant, or is accompanied by marked fatigue: tests (iron, thyroid) can sometimes be useful after pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
When does postpartum hair loss begin?
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
Will my hair grow back?
Can you take supplements while breastfeeding?
*Clinical studies under dermatological supervision, application 3 times a week for 3 months: Anti-hair loss shampoo −44% hair loss (65 people), Conditioner −26% (36 people), Mask −38% (35 people); Reactive anti-hair loss spray −61% hair loss (53 people, daily use). Individual results may vary. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. This article is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice; in the event of significant or persistent hair loss, consult a healthcare professional.
Sources
- French Society of Dermatology — postpartum hair loss (telogen effluvium).
- Ameli.fr — after childbirth.
- Luxéol — clinical studies on the reactive anti-hair loss range.
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