Breastfeeding, Hormonal Imbalance & Hair Loss: What New Moms Should Know

Postpartum hair loss is common—but if you’re still shedding months after giving birth, and especially while breastfeeding, there may be more going on beneath the surface. At The Press Room Salon, we regularly help new moms understand and navigate the hair changes triggered by hormones, stress, and nutrient depletion.

If you’re breastfeeding and noticing shedding, thinning, or changes in texture, here’s what you need to know—and how we can support your hair health from the outside in.

The Hormone Shift Behind Hair Loss After Birth

During pregnancy, high levels of estrogen extend the hair’s growth phase, so many women experience thicker, longer hair. But once the baby arrives—especially during breastfeeding—those hormone levels drop sharply.

This triggers a condition called telogen effluvium, a temporary shedding phase where more hair than usual enters the resting cycle.

Why Breastfeeding Can Extend Hair Loss

While breastfeeding is beautiful and nourishing, it can prolong hormonal imbalances that impact your hair:

  • Lower estrogen levels are maintained longer

  • Prolactin and oxytocin may suppress normal follicle function

  • Nutritional demands (iron, zinc, biotin, protein) increase

  • Fatigue and stress also disrupt the hair growth cycle

Even with a solid postpartum routine, your body may prioritize milk production over hair regrowth—causing shedding to persist 3–6 months or longer.

Common Signs of Breastfeeding-Related Hair Loss

  • Excessive shedding around the hairline or temples

  • Increased breakage or lack of elasticity

  • Thin, fragile strands around the crown or edges

  • Slower regrowth or patchy texture changes

  • Breakage in previously healthy leave-out (especially with sew-ins)

How The Press Room Salon Supports New Moms

We’re not medical professionals, but we specialize in healthy hair recovery. Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding or weaning, our approach is gentle, intentional, and built to restore confidence and scalp health.

Protective Styling With Intention

Low-tension, breathable styles like our Natural Part Sew-In can protect your strands while giving you a finished look during high-shed months.

➡️ Book a sew-in or silk press here

Scalp Health Comes First

When the scalp is inflamed or clogged, regrowth stalls. Keep your follicles stimulated with consistent care.

Try:
✔️ CÉCRED Restoring Hair & Scalp Drops
✔️ Nourishing Hair Oil to lock in moisture

Use code _Danified at checkout for $10 off + free shipping

Rebuild Moisture + Strength

Hormonal shedding often comes with dry, weak hair. Alternate between deep moisture and light protein treatments to rebuild structure.

Salon Favorite:
✔️ CÉCRED Moisturizing Deep Conditioner

Gentle Detangling + Styling Tools

Avoid unnecessary breakage by switching to pro-level tools.

Must-Have:
✔️ Gold Rush Brush – gentle on fragile hair
✔️ Amazon Silk Wraps + Tools

Internal Support – with Caution

Some moms may choose to take hair-supporting supplements like Nutrafol or postpartum blends—but always consult your doctor first, especially while nursing.

Explore:
✔️ Nutrafol + other postpartum essentials

When to Talk to a Doctor

If shedding:

  • Lasts longer than 6–9 months postpartum

  • Comes with patches or visible thinning

  • Occurs alongside fatigue, brittle nails, or mood changes

Ask your OB or PCP to test for:

  • Iron and ferritin levels

  • Thyroid function

  • Vitamin D and B12

  • Hormonal shifts (estrogen, progesterone)

Final Thoughts from The Press Room Salon

Motherhood changes your hair—but it doesn’t mean you can’t get it back. With the right products, protective styling, and time, your strands will recover.

We’re here to help you feel beautiful while your body heals.
Let’s care for your crown—gently, intentionally, and professionally.

Book + Shop Your Recovery Plan

✔️ Book a virtual or in-salon consultation
✔️ Shop Cecred for scalp + moisture recovery
✔️ Shop postpartum-safe tools + wraps
✔️ Get the Gold Rush Brush – a must for postpartum shedding

Next
Next

How Many Bundles Do I Need for a Sew-In with Leave-Out?