Hair changes during pregnancy: what is normal

Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, and hair is no exception. Some women love how their hair looks while pregnant. Others are worried by shedding, either during pregnancy or a few months after the baby arrives. Knowing what is normal can help you relax, and knowing what is not helps you get checked early.

Why hair changes in pregnancy

A 2025 review of skin conditions in pregnancy explains that pregnancy causes physical changes in hair and skin driven by hormonal shifts, especially higher levels of oestrogens and progesterone ¹. Among the common changes it lists are shifts in hair growth, both during pregnancy and after the birth ¹. Most of these skin and hair changes are harmless and settle after delivery ¹.

During pregnancy

Hair grows in cycles. At any time, most hairs are growing and a smaller share are resting before they fall out. Hormone changes in pregnancy can shift this balance, so hair can feel different. Commonly reported changes include:

• Hair that feels thicker or fuller, because fewer hairs seem to shed.
• Changes in texture, such as hair becoming oilier, drier, straighter or wavier.
• Changes in body hair, such as more noticeable hair on the face or tummy.

These changes vary a lot from person to person, and not everyone notices them.

When hair loss in pregnancy needs checking

Shedding during pregnancy is less expected than shedding after the birth, so it is worth mentioning to your doctor or midwife. Possible reasons include:

• Iron deficiency. The NHS lists iron deficiency among the causes of temporary hair loss ². Iron needs rise in pregnancy, so your care team may check your blood. See anaemia, iron and hair loss.
• Thyroid problems, which can affect hair and are often checked in pregnancy. See thyroid problems and hair loss.
• Illness or stress, which the NHS also lists as causes of temporary hair loss ².
• Tight hairstyles, which can pull hair out over time.

Patchy hair loss, scalp redness or pain, or a fast-widening parting should also be checked.

After the birth

Many new mothers notice heavy shedding a few months after having a baby. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains that this is normal and not true hair loss. It is called telogen effluvium and is caused by falling oestrogen levels ³.

The AAD says this shedding is temporary and that you do not need to do anything to treat it. Most women see their hair return to its usual fullness by their child's first birthday, and many sooner ³. For a full timeline, see postpartum hair loss.

If the shedding bothers you, the AAD suggests ³:

• using a volumising shampoo, and avoiding heavy "conditioning shampoos" that can weigh hair down
• using a conditioner made for fine hair, mainly on the ends
• avoiding intensive conditioners
• trying a shorter haircut, which can make hair look fuller

The AAD also reminds parents that loose hairs can wrap tightly around a baby's finger, toe or other body part, cutting off circulation. This is very rare, but worth knowing about ³.

Hair treatments while pregnant

Many people want to keep colouring or straightening their hair. A review of hair cosmetics notes that dyeing and straightening procedures have side effects and health concerns, especially for pregnant women ⁴. If you choose to have them, it is sensible to discuss timing with your doctor, use a well-ventilated salon and avoid applying chemicals to an irritated scalp. See a gentle hair care routine.

Hair-loss medicines and pregnancy

Some hair-loss medicines are not suitable in pregnancy:

• Finasteride. The NHS states that women should not use finasteride ². MedlinePlus adds that women who are or may become pregnant should not touch broken or crushed finasteride tablets, because this may harm the unborn baby ⁵. If your partner takes it, store it safely.
• Minoxidil. MedlinePlus advises telling your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding before using topical minoxidil, and calling your doctor if you become pregnant while using it ⁶.

Do not start, stop or change any hair-loss treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding without advice from your doctor. See minoxidil for women.

When to see a doctor

Speak to your doctor or midwife if:

• you have noticeable hair loss during pregnancy
• shedding after the birth continues well past your baby's first birthday, or your hair does not seem to recover ³
• you see bald patches, a widening part, or scalp pain or redness
• you feel very tired, dizzy or short of breath, which can suggest anaemia

For more on common causes in women, see hair loss in women.

Frequently asked questions

Why does hair feel thicker in pregnancy?

Pregnancy hormones, especially higher oestrogen and progesterone, shift hair growth ¹, so fewer hairs may shed for a while.

Is hair loss after giving birth normal?

Yes. The AAD says postpartum shedding is caused by falling oestrogen, is temporary, and usually settles by the child's first birthday ³.

Can I dye my hair while pregnant?

Discuss it with your doctor. A review notes dyeing and straightening raise particular concerns in pregnancy ⁴.

Is finasteride safe in pregnancy?

No. Women should not use it, and pregnant women should not touch broken or crushed tablets ^{2 5}.

Educational content. Not medical advice.