Overview
Some babies experience hair loss in the first six months after birth. This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium, and it is caused by changing hormone levels. Because every baby is different, some are born with little to no hair, and others are born with hair that falls out. The hair can grow back quickly or can take a while. Although there is no guaranteed way to make your baby’s hair grow back, there are ways to stimulate growth.
Step 1
Ask your baby’s pediatrician about the hair loss at her next check-up. This will help rule out reasons for hair loss such as ringworm or a thyroid condition. Although hair loss in babies is common and typically not a cause for concern, it is best to make sure there are no underlying problems.
Step 2
Limit how often you wash your baby’s hair. Too much cleansing can strip his scalp of natural oils that protect his hair and help it to grow. When you do wash his hair, use a gentle shampoo designed for baby hair.
Step 3
Massage your baby’s head once a day using gentle circular motions. This will increase blood flow and stimulate the hair follicles.
Step 4
Change your baby’s sleeping position. Repeatedly rubbing the same side of the head on his mattress can create a bald spot and make hair less likely to grow in that area. You can also give your baby supervised time to lie on his tummy during the day.
