If your curls changed after having a baby, you are not imagining it — and you are not alone. Postpartum hair changes are incredibly common, and they can be particularly disorienting for people with curly hair whose curl pattern shifts, loosens, or completely disappears for a period. Here is what is happening, why, and how a curly hair specialist can help.
Why Does Curly Hair Change After Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, elevated oestrogen levels extend the growth phase of hair, meaning less hair falls out than usual. Many pregnant women notice their hair looking thicker and more voluminous. Then, in the weeks and months after birth, oestrogen drops sharply — and all that extra hair begins shedding. This is called telogen effluvium and typically peaks around 3–6 months postpartum.
Beyond shedding, the hormonal shift can also change the texture and curl pattern of hair. Some new mothers find their curls loosen; others find new, unexpected curls in previously straight sections. In most cases, the curl pattern returns to its pre-pregnancy baseline over 12–18 months — but the transition period can be confusing and frustrating.
Common Postpartum Curly Hair Experiences
- Significant shedding and visible thinning at the temples and hairline
- Curls that are less defined or looser than before
- New frizzy sections that did not exist pre-pregnancy
- Hair that does not respond to products the same way
- Baby hairs and regrowth framing the face that create a halo of frizz
- Complete change in porosity — hair that used to absorb product readily now repels it, or vice versa
How a Curly Hair Specialist Can Help Postpartum
A curly hair specialist is trained to assess your hair as it is now — not as it was before. A postpartum consultation at Hair Love Artistry covers:
- Reassessment of your current curl type and porosity (which may have changed)
- A revised product routine suited to your current hair rather than your pre-pregnancy routine
- A cut that works with postpartum regrowth and any texture changes, rather than fighting them
- Guidance on managing the transition period — what to expect and when to expect it to stabilise
Tips for Managing Postpartum Curly Hair
- Be gentle — postpartum hair is more fragile; avoid tight hairstyles, aggressive brushing, and heat
- Deep condition regularly — hormonal changes often result in increased dryness
- Embrace protective styles — while regrowth is short, pulling hair back gently can minimise the frizz halo
- Do not panic about shedding — dramatic shedding at 3–6 months postpartum is normal and temporary; it almost always resolves
- Revisit your product routine — if your usual products are not working, your porosity may have changed; a specialist assessment can identify this
Book a Postpartum Curl Consultation in Buderim
Hair Love Artistry, Shop 4, 5-9 Lakeshore Ave, Buderim. We understand postpartum hair is a whole different challenge — and we meet you where you are. Book here or call 0413 025 125.
FAQs
Will my curls come back after postpartum shedding?
In most cases, yes. Curl pattern typically returns to its pre-pregnancy baseline over 12–18 months. Some women do notice a permanent slight change, but dramatic or permanent curl loss from postpartum hormones alone is uncommon.
When is the best time to get a curly haircut postpartum?
Once the most intense shedding phase has passed — usually around 6–9 months postpartum — is a good time for a specialist cut. Coming in during peak shedding can make it harder to assess the true state of your hair. That said, if your hair is causing significant stress, come in earlier; even a consultation and product advice can help.
