Bald Baby: When Will Their Hair Start Growing?

If your baby is bald, there’s no need to worry. The amount of hair a newborn has and the timing of its growth vary widely. What’s certain is that all babies will develop hair in time.

As new parents, the excitement of seeing your newborn for the first time is unforgettable.

You’ll wonder what they’ll look like, who they resemble, and as you observe their tiny features—face, toes, fingers—you’ll also notice their hair, or sometimes, the absence of it.

Baby hair varies greatly: some infants arrive with a full head of hair, while others have none at all. Both scenarios, as well as everything in between, are completely normal.

Eventually, your baby will grow hair, and before long, you might find yourself coaxing them to allow a gentle hairbrush or planning their first haircut.

Do Babies Lose Hair?

Yes, most babies do experience hair loss. During pregnancy, hormones pass through the placenta and circulate in the baby’s body. After birth, hormone levels drop, which can cause babies who were born with thick hair to shed it.

New mothers often notice a similar hair loss postpartum. This phenomenon, called telogen effluvium, involves hair shedding three to four months after a significant hormonal change.

Finding baby hairs on bedding or car seats is normal. Hair loss usually begins around the second month and can continue until about six months of age. Babies who spend a lot of time lying on their backs may develop a bald spot on the back of their heads.

When new hair grows in, it may differ in color—often lighter—and texture, as newborn hair is typically fine and delicate. While you may be eager to style your baby’s hair, it’s best to wait until they’re a little older before using hair accessories or styling products.

What If My Baby Was Born With Little or No Hair?

Every baby is unique, and having less hair than others is perfectly normal. Hair doesn’t define your baby’s cuteness, so cherish these early months regardless of hair presence.

One advantage is less hair to clean! Gently wipe your baby’s scalp with a soft washcloth and watch for the arrival of new hair, which usually appears by their first birthday. If hair growth seems delayed, don’t panic—genetics play a significant role. Reviewing your own baby photos might provide reassurance.

If your child remains bald nearing their second birthday or continues to lose hair after six months, consult your pediatrician to explore possible causes.

In rare cases, baby baldness may result from fungal infections or autoimmune conditions, both of which have treatment options.

Choosing Baby Care Products

Baby skin is sensitive, so even products designed for infants can sometimes be too harsh.

Opt for the gentlest, natural detergents for their clothes and bedding, and keep bath time simple. Use fragrance-free, dye-free, mild shampoos and soaps to avoid irritation.

Often, a warm washcloth with minimal soap is sufficient for cleaning, except in the diaper area. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends bathing your baby only a few times per week.

Is It Cradle Cap?

Many babies develop flaky, oily patches on their scalp known as cradle cap. It may present as dry flakes resembling dandruff, sometimes accompanied by redness.

The exact cause is unclear, but pregnancy hormones likely stimulate excess oil production in the baby’s skin.

Though the flakes may look unpleasant, they don’t bother your baby and aren’t contagious. Cradle cap typically appears within the first week after birth and can last several months, occasionally beyond the first year.

Regularly wash your baby’s scalp with a damp washcloth and gently brush to remove flakes.

Some parents find that massaging the scalp with natural oils like olive oil helps loosen scales. If the condition spreads beyond the scalp, your doctor might suggest a medicated shampoo.

Always use natural, unscented cleansers to minimize the risk of eczema.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If your baby’s hair continues to fall excessively after six months, consult your pediatrician. Persistent hair loss may indicate nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, or fungal infections. Red, oozing, or irritated skin could signal allergies or other skin conditions.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be concerned if your newborn has little or no hair or loses most of it in the first months. Protect their sensitive scalp from sun exposure.

Enjoy every moment with your baby, embracing the wonder of those early months without letting hair concerns overshadow your joy.

Q:

What is considered normal regarding baby hair?

A:

There is a wide spectrum of normal when it comes to baby hair. Some babies are born with thick hair that sheds within the first six months, while others start bald and grow hair later. Many fall somewhere in between. It’s also common to have more hair loss at the back of the head, resulting in a prolonged bald spot.

These answers reflect expert medical opinions and are for informational purposes only, not medical advice.

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