Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common condition in men and some women due to genetic factors. Not so common is alopecia in children, but it does occur. In most children who suffer hair loss, the condition will correct itself as they grow, depending on the cause. It may take a year or more before the hair grows back. It is important to know the possible causes and speak with a physician regarding childhood alopecia.
Types of Hair Loss
There are five conditions that promote childhood hair loss.
Aopecia areata may be genetic. Most children who suffer this form of hair loss have a family member who has gone through it too. The hair simply falls out from the root in a circular pattern. In most cases it will grow back within a year, although sometimes the hair will grow back white and the color returns later.
Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection that causes hair to break off, leaving red and scaly scalp exposed. This type is spread easily through hats, combs and pillows. Treatment with anti-fungal creams and shampoos is required.
Traction alopecia is caused by overprocessing and excessive combing and styling of fragile hair. Children's hair is not strong and is susceptible to breakage and follicle damage. The hair will grow back eventually after the stress on the hair is eliminated.
Trichotillomania is obsessive hair pulling. Psychiatric treatment and medications are needed to treat this condition and stop the hair loss.
Telogen effluvium is hair loss due to infection or disease, usually accompanied by high fever. Once the illness has run its course, hair growth will resume within three to four months.
Treatments
Cortisone and steroid injections are the most common treatments for hair loss not associated with fungal infection or illness. Minoxidil, an ingredient found in Rogaine, is also beneficial in regrowth of hair in children. These treatments stimulate the hair follicles and increase circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth. Antifungal creams and oral medications will help hair loss due to fungal infection by killing the fungus and healing the hair follicle.
Finding Support
Hair loss can harm a child's self esteem. There are support groups that can help your child understand that the condition is temporary and show him how to hide the hair loss until treatment is complete. Meeting other children suffering with hair loss will show your child she is not alone and that there are others who understand. Support groups will give your child the opportunity to help other children, too, which can also boost self esteem.
Finding a Doctor
Finding a hair loss doctor who works specifically with children can be difficult. Talk to your child's pediatrician for a referral or contact a dermatologist who has experience with children's hair loss. You can also go to the American Academy of Dermatology's Physician Referral Service at www.aad.org/findaderm/ to locate a dermatologist who treats children in your area.
Waiting for Regrowth
Hair grows in cycles, with 85 percent or more of your hair growing at one time. The other 15 percent is getting ready to shed. After significant hair loss, hair can take up to three months to resume a normal growth cycle. During this time you could introduce hats, scarves and wigs to your child to help ease fears and embarrassment.
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