What Everyone Ought to Know about Hair & Pregnancy

Being pregnant is a sacred little slice in time, and it brings many changes to a woman’s body. Considering our hair is a fair indicator of our general state of health, the fact that most pregnant women witness their hair growing thicker and more lustrous during those nine months is proof positive of good health. (This is not always the case, however, and while they remain the minority, some soon-to-be mothers find that their hair is drier, more prone to breakage and is even falling out more during pregnancy).
Our hair changes are due to an increase in estrogen levels during pregnancy. This extra estrogen translates into hair and nails that grow thicker, stronger and sometimes faster. You may also experience hair growth where you don’t really want it: on your abdomen, face and sometimes even on your back.
Your normal hair “behavior” might also throw you a curveball—dry hair could become oilier, oily hair become drier, and might gets curlier or straighter.
This is one time in your life when you might want to go more “natural” than usual. Find a hair style that is easy to manage and doesn’t require laborious styling, or a lot of products. Your stylist can suggest a style that is both flattering and easy to care for.
During pregnancy, you should stay away from chemical hair colorants and other potentially harsh products. Some doctors recommend abstaining altogether, some say just during the first trimester; talk to your OBGYN. If you really can’t do without your color your stylist can suggest natural hair-coloring options or semi-permanent color.
Once your baby is born, you will probably experience increased hair loss, which tends to last longer is you are breastfeeding. This is perfectly normal and with time (sometimes up to 18 months) your hair will return to pre-pregnancy levels.