Why Is My Baby’s Hair Falling Out?

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Hair fall is pretty common in adults, but did you know that your baby can also experience hair fall? Almost all newborns lose some or all of their hair at some point.

Babies are born with soft, downy heads of hair that can be as fine as fuzz or as thick as a mop. But what happens when a baby's hair starts to thin or falls out altogether? It can be a worrying sight for parents, but it's usually nothing to be concerned about.

Why Is My Baby's Hair Falling Out?

Hair loss in babies, also known as alopecia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, and even a minor illness. In the majority of cases, baby hair loss is a normal part of development and is nothing to worry about.

In many cases, hormones like testosterone can cause a baby to shed some of their hair. This is especially common in premature babies. Genetics can also be a factor, as some babies are born with a predisposition to hair loss. Also, a minor illness, such as a cold or virus, can also cause hair loss in babies [1].

What Causes Hair Loss In Babies?

Reason #1

The most common cause of hair loss in babies is telogen effluvium. This is a condition in which hair follicles enter a resting phase and are typically shed within three to four months.

During this time, the baby may experience thinning hair or even complete baldness. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is usually temporary, with the hair re-growing within a year [2].

Reason #2

Another common cause of baby hair loss is traction alopecia. This is caused when the baby's hair is pulled too tightly, often due to tight braids, ponytails, or headbands. The hair follicles may become damaged and the hair may fall out. To prevent traction alopecia, it's important to not pull the baby's hair too tightly.

Reason #3

In rare cases, a baby's hair loss may be caused by an underlying medical condition. These conditions can include infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis, congenital syphilis, and even an under-active thyroid. If you are concerned about your baby's hair loss, it's best to speak to your paediatrician [3].

On A Final Note...

In most cases, baby hair loss is nothing to worry about. As long as the baby is healthy and developing normally, the hair should re-grow within a year. If you are concerned, however, it's best to speak to your paediatrician.