Hair loss in children occurs at a certain stage in their life. There are pathological and natural causes. Have you started spotting tiny strands of precious baby hair here and there? Your child may have been born with a head full of thick hair, but that doesn't mean it will stay that way.
Hair loss in children is normal, and in fact, it happens to almost all children at some point. But don't worry, this doesn't mean your child will be bald forever.
You may be wondering what could be causing your child's hair loss, or what you should do about it. You'll find the answers to all your questions here.
Your baby changes a lot every day, and that includes their hair. Hair loss is completely normal for babies, and it often occurs during the first six months. Some babies lose only a few hairs at a time, while others develop bald spots. But don't panic, hair growth consists of two phases: one of growth, and the other of rest, also called the telogen effluvium.
As new hair begins to grow, it will push out the old hair, resulting in some hair loss. The growth phase can last about three years, and the resting phase is generally three months. However, anything between one and six months is normal.
Each strand of hair has its own time, so your child usually loses a little of it at any given time. But changes in the body can cause a lot of hair to stop growing at once.
Do you need: Why do newborns not cry? Is there a risk to the child?
The cause of hair loss in children.
Hair loss in children due to body changes
Once your baby is out of the womb, the same thing happens to your baby. During pregnancy, hormone levels are high. Your baby will have those high levels too, especially during the last few months. However, immediately after birth, hormone levels drop. This results in a few changes, one of which is a sudden stop in hair growth. Then, as the new phase begins, this old hair falls out. This can happen any time after the first month. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid it. As your baby gets a little older, they may start to lose their hair. Some babies do this when they are tired or upset.
A fungal infection could be the cause of your child's hair loss. You may notice a few red spots or even a ring, or the area may be red and scaly. While harmless to your child, fungal infections such as ringworm can be very contagious.
Hair loss in children due to Alopecia areata
Sometimes, the immune system attacks the hair follicles. This results in very thin patches or bald spots. This is a condition known as alopecia areata. The follicles slow down production, causing hair to grow very slowly. The condition is more common in older children but can affect babies. If you notice your child has very thin bald spots, it's best to consult a pediatrician.
Your child's pediatrician will prescribe an ointment or treatment to help the hair grow.
Hair loss in children due to cradle cap
Do you notice yellowish scales on your baby's scalp? It's likely cradle cap. Cradle cap is usually caused by excess oil in the affected area. The scales may be scaly and fall off. As they fall off, you may notice a few strands of hair. Most of the time, cradle cap resolves on its own, which can take anywhere from six months to a year.
Severe cases may require treatment. You can purchase a special shampoo that softens the scales and moisturizes the skin, or you can use petroleum jelly to soften them before bathing. Never pick at the scales, even if they look like they're about to fall off—just leave them. Picking can irritate the skin, turning it red and causing inflammation.
Abnormal symptoms of hair loss in children
Any changes in your child's body or behavior should be closely monitored. They're likely nothing serious, but they could be an indication of an underlying problem. Always contact your child's pediatrician if you notice any significant changes.
If hair loss is sudden and severe, or accompanied by any of the following signs, you may need to have your child examined to rule out more serious conditions.
- Red, scaly patches on bald spots.
- The child feels lethargic.
- Swelling around the face, along with cool, pale skin.
Do you need: Sore throat in children, causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment?
Medical treatment for hair loss in children
Most hair loss in children is completely normal, and the hair will grow back within a few weeks or months. It doesn't require any treatment—you just have to let it run its course.
If a fungal infection is the cause, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal ointment. Your child's pediatrician may also recommend using a medicated shampoo that's safe for your child. The pathogen can cause hair loss on the scalp, and using this shampoo is the best way to get rid of the infection.
Eczema can also cause hair loss. It's very common in babies with dry skin. The rash will leave a red, itchy, and sometimes painful rash on your baby's body, including the scalp. Your pediatrician will often prescribe a cream to help reduce inflammation. The recommended treatment for eczema is to use a cream or ointment after bathing to keep the skin and scalp moisturized.
Do you need: The keto diet to treat epilepsy in children, its pros and cons?
Avoid bald spots
You may start to notice a hairless spot somewhere on your baby's head. But don't panic. Most of the time, this is caused by the area rubbing against something.
A bald spot may appear if your baby spends a lot of time in one position. This usually appears on the back or sides of your baby's head. If you notice a bald spot, try adjusting your baby's sleeping position.
Change the child's position
Does your baby spend a lot of time in the same position? Whether in their crib or stroller, you may need to change things up. Maybe your baby likes to sleep on their left side. Don't be afraid to place your baby facing the opposite direction in the crib. Because babies like to face outward, they often turn their heads toward the light. If that light is usually on their left side, try gently encouraging them to turn to the right.
Your child should do this naturally. During car rides, your child will likely look out the window next to them. This can lead to them spending too much time in one position. Placing the car seat on the other side of the car may solve the problem. During the day,
Encourage your baby for tummy time
Not only is it great for your baby's strength, but it's also the best way to avoid bald, flat spots. You can start practicing tummy time as soon as your baby is born. Although this position is no longer recommended for sleeping, it is beneficial for babies while they are awake.
Helping your baby strengthen their neck muscles helps them reach other milestones as well. Movements like push-ups, rolling, crawling, and standing rely on your baby's ability to hold their head up. As mentioned above, you should never leave your baby in this position unsupervised. You should also avoid tummy time immediately after feedings, or when your baby is tired or hungry.
the source : Infant Hair Loss: Is My Baby Going Bald?
