The Truth About Postpartum Hair Shedding — And How Cosh Was Born To Help

Written By Norm Ng

Mother’s Day Special Feature

Bringing a new life into the world is magical — but what happens after can feel anything but. For many new moms, postpartum hair shedding can come as an emotional and sometimes shocking surprise. At Cosh Head Spa, postpartum shedding was personal. In fact, our founder’s journey through this exact experience is why Cosh exists today.

This Mother’s Day, we want to honor all moms — and help them feel seen, supported, and cared for, starting from the top (literally).

What Is Postpartum Hair Shedding?

Postpartum hair shedding, also known as telogen effluvium, is a temporary form of hair loss that happens after childbirth. While you’re pregnant, increased estrogen levels help keep hair in a prolonged growth phase. That’s why many women notice thicker, fuller hair during pregnancy.

However, after birth, estrogen levels drop significantly. This sudden shift pushes more hairs into the shedding (telogen) phase of the growth cycle, leading to noticeable hair fall usually starting 2-4 months postpartum.

Key Symptoms of Postpartum Shedding:

  • Excessive hair fall when brushing or showering

  • Thinner ponytails or bald spots around the hairline

  • Shedding that peaks around 3-4 months postpartum and gradually improves

What Causes Postpartum Hair Shedding?

The main culprit is hormonal change — particularly the sharp decline in estrogen after giving birth. However, other factors can make shedding worse or delay recovery:

  • Stress and sleep deprivation (common with new parenthood)

  • Nutritional deficiencies (like iron, vitamin D, or biotin)

  • Thyroid issues (which can emerge postpartum)

  • Underlying scalp health concerns (often overlooked)

While it’s a natural process, it can still take a toll on self-esteem and emotional well-being — something we deeply understand at Cosh.

Our Story: How Postpartum Shedding Inspired Cosh Head Spa

Our co-founder faced severe postpartum shedding after giving birth to their son. Though they knew the hair would likely grow back in time, the emotional impact of seeing thick, beautiful hair fall away was devastating. Hair isn’t just about beauty — it’s part of your identity.

Through research and care, they discovered that nurturing the scalp could help create an ideal environment for healthier, faster regrowth. The rituals of deep cleansing, proper scalp stimulation, and holistic products made all the difference.

This deeply personal experience became the seed for Cosh Head Spa — a place designed to help others through their hair journeys with empathy, expertise, and plenty of pampering.

What Can You Do To Stop (or Minimize) Postpartum Hair Shedding?

While you can’t entirely stop postpartum shedding (it’s biologically programmed), you can take steps to support healthier regrowth and improve scalp health:

1. Be Gentle With Your Hair

  • Avoid tight hairstyles or excessive brushing

  • Use silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction

2. Focus on Nutrition

  • Eat balanced meals rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins

  • Consider postnatal vitamins after consulting your doctor

3. Manage Stress

  • Prioritize sleep and self-care when possible

  • Gentle exercise or mindfulness practices can help

4. Care for Your Scalp

  • Regular scalp massages improve circulation

  • Professional treatments like our Cleanse or Revive services deeply nourish and stimulate the scalp

  • Use targeted products that strengthen and protect

5. Nourish Your Scalp

  • Cosh works exclusive with Rene Furterer who’s developed a scalp serum specially targeting postpartum shedding.

  • Book an appointment to start your re-growth journey.

This Mother’s Day — Treat Yourself or a Mom You Love

Postpartum shedding is part of the journey — but you don’t have to face it alone. At Cosh, we combine advanced scalp science with holistic, hands-on care to help moms (and everyone) feel their best.

✨ Special Mother’s Day Offer ✨ From May 7–11, 2025, enjoy 10% off gift cards — the perfect last-minute gift for a deserving mom. Or, book a scalp treatment and experience firsthand how self-care can start with your scalp.

Give yourself or someone you love the gift of renewal. Because motherhood deserves more than flowers — it deserves care that lasts well beyond Mother’s Day.

 
Norm Ng