Postpartum bangs are little tufts of hair that grow in areas where it had fallen out due to pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Liu tells us these wispy strands are typically shorter and finer than the rest of your hair and they're usually found around the hairline and nape of your neck. If you’re currently dealing with postpartum hair loss, these bangs are actually a good sign, as they’re proof of regrowth.
What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?
It’s important to note that postpartum hair loss is very common. Everyone deals with some form of shedding or thinning after giving birth. “Postpartum hair loss is caused by hormonal changes that shift our natural hair cycle. In essence, postpartum bangs are a sign that our hair is in the process of reverting back to normal and growing again,” explains Dr. Liu.
For more scientific context: During pregnancy, you have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone, which increase the speed of hair growth while you’re pregnant, but reduce the number of hairs you shed. (This is why some women report having longer, thicker hair at this time.) “During postpartum, your hair tries to shift back to what it was prior to the pregnancy. Since this is happening all at once, it appears that more hair is being lost and hair is thinning. Over time, our bodies will adjust back to pre-pregnancy and hair will start to grow in as normal,” assures Dr. Liu
There are also other factors that contribute to hair loss such as your diet, genetics, stress and when you stop breastfeeding.
How Long Do Postpartum Bangs Last?
It varies from person to person. According to Dr. Liu, this period can last anywhere between six and nine months. Remember: Given that hair loss and regrowth stems from a multitude of factors, there’s no one-size-fits-all timetable. That doesn’t mean there aren’t some universal solutions to maintaining and taming your new fringe in the interim.
