Although it might appear alarming, hair loss or bald patches in babies is a completely normal occurrence. It can be caused by the hormone levels plummeting after birth, a fever or stress. In addition bald patches can occur if baby spends too much time sleeping or playing in the same position or rubs his head against objects such as a mattress. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to help stop your baby's hair loss.
Step 1
Put your baby to sleep in a different spot each time. Because baby will instinctively turn her head to peer out the side of the crib, try placing her on alternate sides of the crib each night.
Step 2
Use a sleep wedge to encourage a variety of positions. Place baby to sleep on his right side during his first nap, his back at the second nap and left side at bedtime.
Step 3
Give baby plenty of tummy time every day. Besides promoting your baby's physical development, tummy time gives the back of the head a much needed break from the mattress or floor.
Step 4
Avoid tight hairstyles and over brushing, which can encourage hair loss. Treat a baby's scalp and hair tenderly while hair regrows.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't be alarmed if your baby's new hair growth is a different color or texture than the rest of his hair. According to the Babycenter website, this is a natural occurrence. Color of both the skin and hair darken as a baby grows. Moderate hair thinning and loss is common in babies. As his hormone levels stabilize, he may shed the fine downy hair he was born with and grow a whole new head of hair. Although new hair growth typically occurs at about 9 to 12 months in age, some babies will still be bald even after the first birthday.
- Dr. Alan Greene of DrGreene.com warns that there are several medical conditions that can cause hair loss in babies. Cradle cap, monilethrix, pili annulati, Menkes disease and trichorrhexis can all trigger scalp inflammation and severe hair loss. In addition, hair loss can signal a nutrient deficiency in protein, zinc or iron. If your baby's hair or scalp does not look normal to you, tell a pediatrician. He can help detect and offer treatment for these conditions.
Things You'll Need
- Sleep wedge
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