Causes & Solutions for Hair Loss in Women with Coily, Curly, and Wavy Hair Textures

1. Main Causes of Hair Loss in Textured Hair

a) Postpartum Hair Loss

Postpartum hair loss is primarily caused by hormonal changes. While genetic factors typically do not play a direct role, fluctuations in hormones are key contributors.

During pregnancy, increased estrogen levels prolong the hair growth phase, resulting in thicker and shinier hair. However, after childbirth, a rapid drop in hormones triggers a condition known as telogen effluvium, where hair quickly shifts from the growth phase to the resting phase, leading to excessive shedding.

This condition is temporary and usually stabilizes within 6 to 12 months.

b) The Impact of Hair Care Practices & Chemical Products

The use of hair products containing harsh chemicals, such as relaxers, hair dyes, or excessive heat styling, can contribute to hair loss.

For example, sulfates in some shampoos strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to irritation, itchiness, and increased shedding.

To minimize these effects, it’s crucial to use gentle, natural hair care products that protect hair health.

c) Stress & Overall Health

Textured hair grows at an average rate of 0.8 cm to 1 cm per month and follows a growth cycle that includes:

• Anagen phase: Active hair growth
• Catagen phase: Hair resting period
• Telogen phase: Gradual shedding over 2 to 4 months

Physical and emotional stress, lack of sleep, anxiety, and exhaustion can force hair follicles into the resting phase (catagen phase), accelerating hair loss by reducing blood circulation and essential nutrient supply to the scalp.

Additionally, nutrient deficiencies—especially in iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and vitamin D—can weaken hair health and increase shedding.

For women with textured hair, hair loss can also be linked to hormonal imbalances such as thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which disrupt the hair growth cycle.

Other medical conditions like lupus or alopecia areata directly attack hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss.

Hair loss can also result from side effects of medications, including chemotherapy, antidepressants, and beta-blockers, leading to temporary shedding.

2. Effective Solutions to Combat Hair Loss in Textured Hair

Postpartum Hair Loss Solutions

To manage postpartum hair loss, adopt a gentle hair care routine:

✅ Use sulfate-free shampoos & conditioners to preserve the scalp’s natural oils and prevent excessive dryness.

✅ Avoid chemical treatments & excessive heat styling to minimize further damage.

✅ Use gentle detangling methods with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to prevent breakage. Always detangle wet hair from the ends up to the roots.

✅ Avoid tight hairstyles that put tension on the roots, which can worsen hair loss. Instead, opt for protective styles and satin scarves or bonnets to reduce friction and breakage.

✅ Trim split ends regularly to prevent further damage and maintain healthy hair growth.

Nutritional & Lifestyle Adjustments

A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is key to maintaining strong and healthy hair.

Make sure to consume:

• Iron, zinc, and vitamin B (including biotin) to strengthen hair follicles
• Vitamin C to support collagen production
• Proteins to nourish hair growth
• Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, eggs, and fish for optimal hair health

Hydration is also crucial for strong, resilient hair. If experiencing nutrient deficiencies, consider taking supplements to support overall hair health.

Managing Stress & Fatigue

Stress plays a major role in hair loss. Consider:

• Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises to lower stress levels and improve sleep quality.
• Taking regular breaks, seeking emotional support, and engaging in relaxing activities to maintain a healthy balance.
• Addressing underlying mental health concerns such as postpartum depression or anxiety, which can contribute to stress-induced hair loss.

Advanced Hair Loss Treatments

If hair loss is severe or persistent, surgical options like hair transplants may be considered. However, it is essential to determine the underlying cause before proceeding to ensure success.

Before a transplant:

• The underlying condition should be stabilized to prevent graft rejection.
• Oral or topical medications may be prescribed to halt hair loss and prepare the scalp for transplantation.
• Post-transplant treatments are necessary to maintain results and prevent future hair loss.

Conclusion

Hair loss is not permanent—whether it is caused by postpartum changes, stress, or medical conditions, solutions exist to reduce shedding and promote regrowth.

With the right hair care practices, healthy lifestyle choices, and, if necessary, professional guidance, you can restore stronger, healthier hair over time.