In the weeks - and even months - after giving birth, your body goes through an overwhelming amount of change. Not only is it adjusting to your new role in looking after a newborn, but it is also slowly attempting to transition back into your pre-pregnancy self.
In amongst all of these hormonal changes, your skin and hair can take a huge toll. So, now more than ever, it’s important to really look after yourself and be in tune with what your body needs.
If you are currently in the middle of your postpartum journey, we’re here to provide you with some recommendations on how best to take care of your skin and hair - especially as they continue to be hit with your hormones.
Although it’s completely normal for you to fall behind with beauty routines during the newborn phase, your skin and hair will thank you if you decide to take on a few of these simple steps:
Skincare
1. When you are going through massive hormonal changes, it can lead to your skin becoming dry or dull. To help combat this, try using a hydrating cleanser and a thick moisturiser to bring hydration back into your face. Look out for products that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin - these will do the trick!
2. When you’re in the midst of raising a newborn, the last thing that sounds appealing is keeping up with an elaborate skincare routine. So, to make your life easier, keep your routine simple but effective, focusing on exactly what your skin needs. Don’t use any products that could irritate your skin, especially if you're breastfeeding.
3. If you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation and melasma in your postpartum period, this is extremely common. Brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide and azelaic acid work best to help combat the signs of hyperpigmentation. Also, in future, make sure to layer up on suncream, as it will help to prevent you from developing further hyperpigmentation!
4. Postpartum acne is another common issue that many mums experience after giving birth to their little ones. With your hormones fluctuating constantly, it’s only natural to have breakouts! To help fight back against those pesky spots, you should include products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in your skincare routine. However, you should always double check that they are considered safe for breastfeeding mums, and ask a healthcare professional if you are still unsure.
Haircare
1. The number one thing that affects a new mum’s hair postpartum is the level of hair shedding, as well as the chaotic growth of new baby hairs. Although this natural process can’t be prevented, it’s important for you to be gentle with your hair during this time. Avoid putting it up into tight hairstyles, and try to steer clear of using hot styling tools. You could also swap your hairbrush to a softer version with gentle bristles (if you don’t already own one), to help reduce the levels of breakage when you're trying to brush out knots.
2. With the amount of hair that you will be shedding, it’s completely understandable that you’ll want to help to regrow your hair as quickly as possible. Although the process will take time and patience, there are still many products on the market that can help your hair along! For example, you could treat your hair once or twice a week to a rosemary hair oil treatment, gently rubbing it in with a scalp massager brush. This specific hair oil is designed to help encourage healthy hair regrowth. Meanwhile, using a scalp massager will stimulate the blood flow in your scalp, allowing the oil to work its magic!
3. If your scalp feels irritated and unnourished during postpartum, it might be worthwhile to change up your current shampoo brand. If your hair is feeling dry and dull, try switching up your routine with a sulfate-free, moisturising shampoo. We would then recommend pairing it with a lightweight conditioner, which will hydrate your locks without weighing them down. Also, if you can, try not to over-wash your hair - two to three times a week is enough!
