4 Holistic Ways to Balance Postpartum Hormones and Support Glowing Skin
Navigating the postpartum phase involves a multitude of adjustments, especially when it comes to hormonal balance. As mums, post-birth we experience something called the postpartum hormone drop. This generally happens around day 4 after giving birth and it is the single largest and most sudden hormonal shift in the shortest amount of time for any human being, at any point of their life cycle. Wow! Can we just appreciate that for a minute?
It doesn’t end here either, and our hormones aren’t magically back to normal after this drop. They will continue to fluctuate causing changes in our moods, energy levels and emotions for a long time after, around 12 months or more depending on if you are breastfeeding or not. Embracing this transformative journey requires a holistic approach, understanding your body's rhythms, and addressing its unique needs—including your skin. Hormones and skin health are intimately connected, and caring for your skin with the same intention as your nutrition or rest can make a profound difference in how you feel and function.
Here are four often overlooked yet crucial steps that busy mamas should consider to support their hormones—and skin—through this journey.
Prioritise Nutrition:
Postpartum bodies require adequate nourishment, yet many mothers inadvertently neglect this aspect amongst their demanding schedules. Not to mention the “bounce back” culture, which puts pressure on new mamas to return to their pre-baby weight and body shape. This restricting of food, intentionally, or skipping of meals, unintentionally, can disrupt hormonal balance. Instead, opt for meals rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and abundant vegetables. These same nutrients also play a critical role in skin regeneration, elasticity, and hydration. For example, collagen-rich bone broth, healthy fats like tallow, and vitamin A from organ meats not only support hormone production but also nourish your skin from within.
And no, eating your children's leftovers does not count as adequate nourishment. Embrace the nourishment your body craves as it plays a pivotal role in hormone regulation, skin repair, and overall well-being.
Food before Coffee:
While that morning cup of coffee can be a comforting ritual, consuming it on an empty stomach can disrupt stress hormone levels, affecting hormonal balance. Pair your coffee intake with a combination of protein, fibre, and healthy fats to regulate cortisol and maintain a stable hormonal environment. This also helps stabilise blood sugar, which reduces inflammation and supports clearer, healthier skin.
Always have food before coffee. You can even make your coffee more nutrient-dense with egg yolks, mushroom powders (my fave combo here), or collagen. If you’re not a coffee drinker like me, having a hot cacao every day can also be nutritionally beneficial. My favourite one is this one here.
Eliminate Endocrine-Disrupting Products:
Assess and minimise exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals present in everyday products like skincare, makeup, cleaning agents, non-stick cookware, plastics, and scented candles. These chemicals can strain your body's detoxification systems, contributing to hormonal imbalances and reactive, inflamed skin. Your skin is your largest organ and absorbs what you put on it—so switching to clean, tallow-based skincare free from synthetic preservatives and seed oils not only reduces the toxic burden on your system but also supports your skin barrier and hormonal health.
Opt for natural, chemical-free alternatives to alleviate this burden on your system. Read this guide to get started.
Honouring Your Bodies Signals:
Listening to your body is so important. Recognise and interpret its signals of imbalance, and then guide your adjustments in nutrition, supplementation, and self-care accordingly. Hormonal imbalance often shows up in our skin—from dryness and acne to dullness or heightened sensitivity. Tuning in and responding with gentle care, whether it’s choosing nourishing foods, taking a magnesium bath, or applying a calming tallow balm, can help regulate both hormones and skin.
It might be something as simple as slowing down and taking a bath, to rescheduling plans when you’re feeling stressed or run down.
By acknowledging and integrating these often overlooked yet impactful steps, postpartum mamas can lay a strong foundation for supporting their hormonal health and skin vitality. Embracing these holistic approaches ensures a nurturing environment for both the mother and her growing family.
Want to support your skin as well as your hormones? Explore our range of nutrient-rich, tallow-based skincare products designed for mothers who value ancestral wisdom and radiant, healthy skin—naturally.