Hair loss in newborns: How common is it?

If you thought hair loss was limited to older adults, think again. Infants, up to the age of 2, can experience hair loss.
It might come off as shocking but this is not uncommon at all. Certain factors and genes at play can make your baby more likely to lose hair, especially in the first six months post-birth.

Why does this happen?
While babies begin to grow some hair on their head while they are resting in the mother’s womb, most newborns experience a drop in their hormone levels, which can make them lose some of their hair in the first six months. 

Much like for adults, another reason for this scary hair loss can be a cradle cap, when the sebum and the scales in the scalp start to rub off and take away the fine hair too.

If your baby sits or sleeps in the same position for a long while, he or she can develop bald spots in and around the crown, which can be another reason for hair loss. The baby may also develop a bald spot if he or she rubs the head against his mattress.

Hair loss can also happen in older children and toddlers if your child is twirls or pulls his hair compulsively. 

Prevention and treatment

There is no cure or remedy in hand to prevent your baby's fine hair from falling down. Given enough time, their hair will grow back. However, there are a few extra precautions you can take to prevent further hair loss.

If the bald spot is the result of your baby spending too much time in the same position, try alternating the way your baby sleeps during naps and at night. Your baby will naturally turn his head to the side to look out of the crib, so he'll be resting on a different part of his head.

If your baby’s hair loss is due to cradle cap, you can also try putting some coconut oil to moisten and loosen the scales.