How long will postpartum hair loss last?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on September 01, 2024
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Postpartum hair loss is a common physiological phenomenon among women after giving birth, but it is unpredictable how long the hair loss will last. For most women, postpartum hair loss can persist for six months to a year, after which hair growth gradually returns to normal. It is important to prevent hair loss after childbirth. For example, it is advisable not to wash hair too frequently; washing every three days is generally sufficient. Additionally, it is important to enhance nutrition and maintain a balanced diet, as the most important source for hair is protein. Therefore, consuming more protein-rich foods is recommended.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Does spleen deficiency cause hair loss?

Generally, patients with spleen deficiency may experience symptoms of hair loss. However, not all hair loss is due to spleen deficiency. If hair loss is induced by spleen deficiency, it generally needs to be treated by addressing the spleen deficiency regularly to see effective improvement. Diet can also help by eating more walnuts and black sesame, and by increasing the intake of high-quality proteins and vitamins. For example, consuming more eggs, fish, and oranges can greatly boost the body's immunity and provide effective nourishment.

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Written by Qu Jing
Dermatology
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How to treat hair loss?

There are many types of hair loss, such as sudden localized patchy hair loss known as alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia which is related to genetic factors and dependent on the action of androgens, also known as seborrheic alopecia, as well as postpartum hair loss due to insufficient qi and blood after childbirth, and telogen effluvium caused by rapid weight loss or dieting. The specific treatment of hair loss should be based on the corresponding cause. The cause of alopecia areata is not completely clear, and it is related to factors such as emotions, stress, endocrine disruption, and autoimmunity. Treatment generally includes oral intake of compound glycyrrhizin tablets and topical application of minoxidil. If the skin lesions are widespread or severe, the combination of corticosteroid treatment may be considered, and treatment generally lasts several months or even longer. Androgenetic alopecia often occurs between the ages of 20 and 30 and is related to familial genetics. The treatment of this condition lacks very effective remedies. Treatment options include topical minoxidil, and oral intake of finasteride. Traditional Chinese medicine has relatively good effects in treating androgenetic alopecia, including the oral intake of Chinese herbal medicine and local acupuncture treatment. Attention should be paid to avoiding staying up late and maintaining a light diet. When the hair follicles have already closed, local hair transplantation can be carried out, transferring hair from the occipital region of the scalp to the top. If the area of androgenetic alopecia is too large without sufficient follicles for transplantation, then the use of a wig should be considered. (Note: Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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Can sulfur soap be used to wash hair for seborrheic alopecia?

If you are experiencing seborrheic hair loss, it is not recommended to use sulfur soap for shampooing. This is because sulfur has a degreasing effect and can treat seborrheic dermatitis, but sulfur is irritating to the scalp. Its strong degreasing effect on the scalp can alter the scalp's microecological environment, which is not conducive to the normal growth and recovery of hair. Therefore, it is not advisable to use sulfur soap for shampooing when experiencing seborrheic hair loss. With the advancement of science, many dandruff treatment and hair growth promoting skincare products can be used for shampooing. We can choose these types of products which cause less damage to the scalp barrier and are more gentle in degreasing, avoiding major irritation and facilitating the recovery of the scalp.

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Written by He Da Wei
Dermatology
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Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can cause us many troubles, not only affecting our life and work, but also bringing us significant mental stress. So, what are the general causes of hair loss? 1. Endocrine disorders: Hair growth is affected by various hormonal influences. The pressure from routine work, life, and studies can cause disruptions in physical functions, as well as conditions like postpartum and menopause, leading to endocrine disorders. 2. Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies and abnormal metabolism can lead to hair loss, with severe malnutrition even causing diffuse hair loss. 3. Genetic factors: Typically, males are more prone to hair loss due to genetic traits that manifest under the influence of androgens. 4. Physical illness: Some medications taken for diseases can cause side effects, including hair loss. 5. Physical and chemical hair loss: Frequent perming and hair dyeing, long hours in front of computers, and frequent use of mobile phones can all lead to hair loss.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What are the causes of male seborrheic alopecia?

Male seborrheic alopecia is also called androgenetic alopecia, which is related to excessive secretion of endogenous androgens leading to vigorous secretion of sebaceous glands. Excessive secretion of sebaceous glands makes the hair follicles loose and buoyant, so the hair roots are not firm and will fall out. It is also related to family genetics; most men in the same family will exhibit similar symptoms of hair loss. Once this condition occurs, formal treatment can bring about some improvement. However, most men may experience recurrent hair loss as they age into their 40s or 50s, and this hair loss is irreversible. Generally speaking, it becomes difficult to completely cure with age.