For New Mums, Changes In Skin And Hair Postpartum Are Not ‘Just Cosmetic’ | Beauty News

Last Updated:February 25, 2026, 14:48 IST

The postpartum phase is physically and emotionally demanding, and sleep deprivation, stress, and anxiety can significantly impact skin health.

New mums must make time to take care of themselves, even if it is in small habits like skin and hair care

Pregnancy is all about welcoming a happy glow while your body grows to accommodate a child. However, after childbirth, many women will notice dramatic changes in their skin and hair. Hair fall, pigmentation, acne, dryness, or dull skin are often brushed off as temporary. While some women can regain their pre-pregnancy features, it is not the same for everyone.

Postpartum skin and hair changes are far more than surface-level concerns, shares Dr Meeta Dodeja, Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Jupiter Hospital, Thane. They reflect complex hormonal, nutritional, and physiological shifts happening in the body after pregnancy, and sometimes signal deeper health needs that should not be ignored.

Hormonal Shifts Play a Major Role

During pregnancy, high levels of oestrogen prolong the hair growth phase, giving many women thicker, shinier hair and glowing skin. After delivery, oestrogen levels drop sharply. This sudden change triggers postpartum hair shedding, medically known as telogen effluvium, usually seen between three and six months after childbirth. While some hair loss is normal, excessive or prolonged shedding may indicate hormonal imbalances such as thyroid dysfunction, which is relatively common in the postpartum period.

Similarly, hormonal fluctuations can lead to acne breakouts, increased skin sensitivity, dryness, or melasma (dark patches on the face). These changes are not merely aesthetic—they reflect how the body is readjusting after months of hormonal elevation.

Nutritional Depletion After Pregnancy

Pregnancy and breastfeeding place high nutritional demands on the body. Iron, vitamin D, B12, zinc, and protein stores may become depleted, especially if dietary intake is inadequate. Low iron levels can worsen hair fall and cause dull, pale skin, while deficiencies in vitamins and minerals may delay skin healing and worsen pigmentation. Persistent symptoms may suggest the need for nutritional assessment and supplementation, rather than topical treatments alone.

Stress, Sleep Deprivation and Mental Health

The postpartum phase is physically and emotionally demanding. Sleep deprivation, stress, and anxiety can significantly impact skin health, triggering flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis, or acne. Chronic stress also increases cortisol levels, which can disrupt the hair growth cycle and worsen inflammation. In some cases, visible skin and hair changes may be external signs of underlying postpartum depression or anxiety, highlighting the importance of holistic maternal care.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many postpartum changes improve over time, symptoms that are severe, long-lasting, or worsening should not be ignored. Excessive hair loss beyond one year, severe acne, unexplained pigmentation, or associated fatigue and mood changes warrant medical evaluation to rule out conditions such as thyroid disorders, anaemia, or hormonal imbalances.

Looking Beyond Appearance

Postpartum skin and hair changes are a window into a woman’s overall recovery after childbirth. Addressing them is not about vanity—it is about recognising the body’s signals, supporting maternal health, and ensuring long-term well-being. With timely medical guidance, balanced nutrition, stress management, and patience, most women can recover healthfully during this transformative phase.