Child hair loss is more common than you may realize. Approximately 3 percent of all doctor’s visits in the United States are due to child hair loss. Even a small amount of hair loss can be frightening and embarrassing for parents and children. However, with proper treatment, children can stop hair loss immediately.
Corticosteroids
The American Hair Loss Association says that corticosteroids, when used to treat scarring alopecias, can be effective for children’s hair loss. Scarring alopecias is a skin disease in which the immune system destroys hair follicles. Topical corticosteroid creams can be rubbed on the scalp to help stop the lymphocyte inflammation in damaged hair follicles. Or, a doctor may inject a localized area with corticosteroids. Although this treatment option is effective; continuous use can cause significant side effects. A doctor should monitor your child closely for skin thinning at the injection site or thinning of the bones. Short-term therapies often have good results and don't produce these side effects.
Resolution of Stress or Changing Medications
High amounts of stress, severe injury, a high fever, surgery or certain medications can cause hair loss in children. The American Hair Loss Association says this condition, called telogen effluvium, affects the normal hair growth process. This causes hair to go into the telogen phase, where it's pushed out of the hair follicle. Once the stressful situation is ended, hair growth should resume within six months. Speak to a doctor regarding any hair loss side effects caused by medications; he may be able to prescribe a different type. Teach your child ways to relax if he is under extreme stress, including breathing exercises or even yoga. Although hair is regrowing, be sure your child avoids brushing, shampooing or drying her hair too vigorously.
Griseofulvin
According to the Mayo Clinic, griseofulvin is a prescription medication that can help stop hair loss when associated with scalp ringworm. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can cause patches of hair loss on the head. Griseofulvin comes in a tablet form that may need to be taken for more than six weeks. You may notice results immediately after beginning a course of this medication.
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