Over the years I’ve had lots of new mums requiring ‘the chop’, translation ~ I can’t deal with it; it WAS great for 9 months: what happened!? Give me something easy, quick and out of range from posseting! Initially this may seem like a sensible, low maintenance option, but it isn’t always the right one. A sassy bob requires drying time and irons, a pixie crop needs maintaining every 5 weeks (good excuse for some ‘me’ time though!) It got me thinking ‘what do new mums really need to help after baby arrives?’ aside from one decent nights’ sleep.

A few weeks in, after round the clock feeds and nappy changing, your hormone levels start to settle down, and changes in your hair take place. The thick luscious supermodel mane you’ve been sporting has disappeared leaving limp, greasy or very dry hair, which usually starts to fall out at an alarming rate (this can be delayed whilst breast-feeding). The lifespan of hair slows down during pregnancy, and you can now enjoy nine months of hair loss over just a few weeks… No! I hear you cry. Hair can feel thin, lifeless and lucky you, now it’s about trying to style fine baby hair around your hairline.
One of the best hair thickening product currently on the market is Diaboost from Nioxin (£50.60, 100mls) Think Botox for your hair! It works by increasing the thickness of each existing hair strand for fuller-looking hair. The hair becomes manageable, fuller and noticeably thicker after just one use.

Tempting as it is to ‘chop it all off’, there are less drastic options. Of-course the first step is to get a good cut (in hairdressers’ terms, that’s a couple of inches). Cutting hair thickens up lack lustrous hair. Disguising fine baby hair with a light non-committal fringe, which can easily be grown out later on is also a good choice. Dry shampoo is an absolute essential for any new mum and should be on every baby equipment checklist. It gives your hair an extra day between washes; Freshening up hair, it creates volume and body, essential for styling. I love the Wella Eimi Dry Me (£14.40, 180mls) which is simply a hair salon in a bottle.
Consider the ‘look’ you want to achieve. If hair is shoulder-length or beyond, a simple ponytail or bun can look great, even with limited time to get ready. Check out my top knot bun tutorial or see my Pinterest 'New Mums' Board for other styles.
When putting your hair up isn’t an option, try to go with nature and embrace what your hair wants to do. If you have naturally curly hair and have spent years trying to get that poker straight look, now might be a good time to ditch the GHDs (for a while anyway). There are some great products on the market for curly hair that will win the battle against frizz every time. Tending to curls is a whole new article but one crucial point to mention is as curly hair is dry (Sorry curlies, I know you know that) use the best conditioner you can afford. Wella Nutricurl Cleansing Conditioner is a must for mum's that like the curly girl method. This gentle cleanser helps to maintain the softness of waves and curls. It's Ideal for your routine with a low-foam formula: a one-step process so there is no need to use shampoo. Available from my shop (£17.20, 250mls)

Hair with a slight wave is bang on trend right now. Leave to dry naturally, then simply tip your head upside down and shake hair at the roots to loosen up and create volume. Finish with a defining product such as Wella Eimi's Pearl Styler (£12.10, 100mls). I have been using this product since I was 17 years old (showing my age!) and its truly my 'go to'. It creates a strong flexible hold and teasable texture with pearl gloss shine with bonus points for added protection from the effects of UV.

Still not convinced? If you’re set on ‘chopping it all off’, do spend time thinking about your current face shape. Collect images (check out my Pinterest board) of what you’d like (including any old favourite hair photos) find a hairdresser who takes time to discuss and understand your requirements and don’t be spontaneous!
Finally make sure the baby has a good feed and long walk in the buggy beforehand, that way you can enjoy a well-earned pamper session in peace!
Nicky McKenzie Hair is a freelance hairdresser specialising in Wella colour with a passion for all thing's hair including choosing the right hair products. Nicky is based from her boutique home salon in Farnham. #hairbynickymckenzie #nickymckenziehair #newmum #newhaircut #postpartumhair #wellanutricurls #nioxin #pearlstyler #chopitalloff #bobhaircut
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