18 Hairstyles for Postpartum Hair Loss That Add Volume

Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss: The “Why” Behind the Shed

Before we dive into the styles, a little understanding can go a long way in easing your mind. During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels keep your hair in its growing phase longer, leading to that famously lush, thick mane. After delivery, as hormones recalibrate, all that retained hair enters the shedding (telogen) phase at once. This is telogen effluvium, and it’s a standard physiological process.

It can be alarming, but it is typically temporary. Most women see their hair return to its normal growth cycle within 6 to 12 months postpartum. In the meantime, strategic styling, gentle care, and a focus on nutrition can support your scalp and help you navigate this phase with style.

Quick & Easy Everyday Hairstyles

When you’re juggling feedings, diaper changes, and maybe a moment to yourself, these styles are your best friends. They take minutes and maximize volume with minimal effort.

1. The Textured Ponytail: Forget the sleek, tight pull-back. Instead, create a ponytail at the crown or mid-height. Before securing it, gently backcomb the hair at your crown for a subtle lift. After placing the hair tie, pull gently on the sides of the ponytail to loosen the base and create width.

2. Messy Top Knot or Bun: A high bun is a savior, but the key is messy. Tease the hair at the crown slightly before piling it up. Leave out face-framing pieces and flyaways—they disguise thinning areas and add dimension.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down with Teasing: This classic look is perfect for hiding a thinning hairline. Take a section from the crown and temples, tease gently at the roots, then secure it loosely back. Let the rest of your hair flow to cover any wider parts.

4. Headband Magic: A wide headband or scarf is the ultimate cheat code. It covers the front hairline where thinning is often most noticeable, adds instant style, and can be paired with any hair texture—curly, straight, or wavy.

5. Face-Framing Layers Cut: If you’re ready for a trim, ask your stylist for long, face-framing layers. These remove weight without sacrificing length and create movement that makes hair look fuller around your face.

Chic & Volumizing Styles for Going Out

For those days when you want to feel extra put-together, these styles offer serious volume and a confidence boost.

6. Voluminous Waves: Use a large-barrel curling wand to create loose, bouncy waves. The secret? Curl sections away from your face and never curl the ends tightly. Once cooled, shake them out with your fingers and flip your head over to spritz with a texturizing spray at the roots.

7. Braided Crown: A loose, bohemian braid wrapped around the head draws the eye and covers the entire hairline. It distributes hair evenly, hiding sparse spots, and the texture of the braid itself adds bulk.

8. Deep Side Part: A simple switch can work wonders. Moving your part from the center to a deep side instantly creates lift at the roots and covers a wider scalp area on one side.

9. Low, Textured Chignon: A low bun doesn’t have to be flat. Tease the hair lightly before twisting it into a loose, low chignon. Gently pull pieces out around your neck and ears for a soft, voluminous effect.

10. Accessorized Ponytail: Elevate your ponytail by wrapping a small section of hair around the base to conceal the hair tie, or add a statement clip or scrunchie at the base. This draws attention to the style, not the density.

Clever Cuts & Strategic Layering

The right cut is foundational for creating volume. Consult with a stylist who understands hair thinning for these transformative options.

11. The Blunt Bob: A chin-length or slightly longer blunt bob creates the illusion of thickness because all the ends hit at one point, making a solid, full line. Ask for internal layers for movement without sacrificing that thick appearance.

12. Shaggy Lob (Long Bob): The modern shag is a postpartum hero. Its multiple, disconnected layers create built-in texture and volume from root to tip, perfect for making fine hair look wildly abundant.

13. Pixie Cut with Texture: For the bold, a textured pixie can be incredibly liberating. It removes the weight of longer hair, allowing natural volume to shine. A good stylist will add choppy layers and texture on top to maximize fullness.

14. Long Layers with Curtain Bangs: If you want to keep length, long, face-framing layers combined with soft curtain bangs add focus and volume around your face, distracting from any overall thinning.

Styles to Embrace Your Natural Texture

Working with your hair’s natural state is often the easiest and healthiest approach.

15. Enhanced Curls: For curly hair, definition is key to volume. Use a curl-enhancing cream or mousse on damp hair, scrunch, and diffuse. This encourages curl clumping, which makes each curl look fuller and covers the scalp more effectively.

16. Textured “Bedhead” Waves: On second- or third-day hair, apply a dry shampoo or texturizing spray at the roots. Scrunch and tousle with your hands to revive waves and create gritty, volume-boosting texture.

17. The “Pineapple” for Curly Hair: A protective nighttime style. Gather your hair into a very loose, high ponytail on top of your head (like a pineapple) using a silk scrunchie. This preserves root volume and prevents tangling.

Essential Styling Tips & Product Recommendations

The right techniques and products are half the battle in creating lasting volume.

18. Master the Root Lift: This is your number-one technique. After washing, apply a volumizing mousse or root-lifting spray to damp roots. Blow-dry your hair upside down, focusing on the roots first. For a quick fix, use a small round brush to lift sections at the crown while applying heat from a dryer.

Product Arsenal: Invest in a few key items. Dry shampoo is a non-negotiable for absorbing oil and adding grit at the roots. A texturizing spray adds piece-y definition. A volumizing mousse provides body and hold from the start. Always use a heat protectant when styling.

Be Gentle: Avoid tight elastics, aggressive brushing, and high-tension styles that can stress hair follicles. Use wide-tooth combs and silk pillowcases to minimize breakage.

Nurturing Your Hair From the Inside Out

While styling creates the illusion, true health starts internally. Be patient with your body; it grew a human!

Focus on a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins like Biotin (B7) and Vitamin D. Stay hydrated. Consider continuing your prenatal vitamins, but always consult your doctor. Manage stress where possible—easier said than done with a newborn, but even a few deep breaths can help.

Most importantly, practice self-compassion. Your worth is not measured by your hair’s thickness. These hairstyles are tools to help you feel like the radiant mother you are, even on the tough days. Embrace this season, experiment with these styles, and know that with time, your hair will find its rhythm again.