PhysiologyReading time: 2 minutes

Is It Normal for a Baby to Lose Hair?

CategoryPhysiology
Is It Normal for a Baby to Lose Hair?

Medically reviewed by pediatrician Alexandra Zglavosiy

Hair loss in babies is normal. In the first few months, hair often thins due to hormonal changes after birth, and new hair typically starts growing around 6 months. To help prevent bald spots, change your baby’s sleep position regularly and choose lightweight hats. See a doctor if there’s redness, flaking, itching, or if hair doesn’t grow back after age one.

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What’s Inside

Quick takeaways

  • Hair loss is normal. Most babies lose some hair in the first 3–6 months due to a drop in maternal hormones after birth. New hair usually starts to grow between 6–12 months and may be darker or thicker.
  • Warning signs: round bald spots with clear edges, redness, flaking or itching of the scalp, or if hair doesn’t grow back after one year. In these cases, consult your pediatrician.
  • To prevent bald spots: change your baby’s position during sleep and play more often, and choose loose hats made from breathable fabrics.

Why do babies lose hair

Hair loss in infants is linked to hormonal changes. While in the womb, a baby has high hormone levels, which promote active hair growth. After birth, hormone levels drop, and some hair falls out, making way for new, stronger hair.

  • First signs of hair loss can appear as early as 1–2 months old.
  • By 3–6 months, hair loss may be most noticeable-some babies develop bald spots, especially on the back of the head.
  • After 6 months, new hair begins to grow, which may differ in color and texture from the hair at birth.

How to care for your baby’s hair

  • Use gentle baby shampoos without harsh surfactants or fragrances.
  • Don’t wash your baby’s hair too often-2–3 times a week is enough.
  • Massage the head gently to improve blood flow.
  • Use soft brushes with natural bristles to avoid damaging delicate hair.
  • Avoid tight hats-they can reduce blood flow to the scalp.

When to see a pediatrician

In most cases, newborn hair loss is temporary and doesn’t need treatment. New fuzz or full hair will grow back on its own.

But see your pediatrician if:

  • Hair loss is accompanied by redness, flaking, rashes, or itching-this may be a sign of a skin condition.
  • Hair falls out unevenly, forming round bald spots-this could be due to a fungal infection or autoimmune process (like alopecia).
  • Hair loss continues after one year and new hair does not grow in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baby Hair Loss

Is it normal for a newborn to lose hair?

Yes. Hair loss during the first months of life is a normal and temporary process. It is usually caused by hormonal changes after birth, and new hair typically begins to grow during the first year.

At what age do babies usually lose their hair?

The first signs of hair loss may appear around 1–2 months of age. It is often most noticeable between 3 and 6 months, after which new hair gradually starts to grow.

When should I see a doctor about my baby's hair loss?

Consult your pediatrician if hair loss is accompanied by redness, flaking, itching, round bald patches, or if new hair has not started growing back after the first year of life.

How should I care for my baby's hair and scalp?

Use gentle baby shampoos, avoid washing the hair too frequently, and choose loose, breathable hats. Regularly changing your baby's position during sleep and playtime may also help reduce friction-related bald spots on the back of the head.

Sources

  • Kim MS, Na CH, Choi H, Shin BS. Prevalence and factors associated with neonatal occipital alopecia: a retrospective study. Ann Dermatol. 2011 Aug;23(3):288-92. doi: 10.5021/ad.2011.23.3.288. Epub 2011 Aug 6. PMID: 21909197; PMCID: PMC3162256. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3162256/. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.
  • Cutrone M, Grimalt R. Transient neonatal hair loss: a common transient neonatal dermatosis. Eur J Pediatr. 2005 Oct;164(10):630-2. doi: 10.1007/s00431-005-1707-y. Epub 2005 Jul 12. PMID: 16010567. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16010567/. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.
  • Cohen BA. Pediatric Dermatology. 4th Edition, 2013. ISBN: 9780723436553