Why Does My Baby Not Have Front Hair?
It's common for babies to have uneven hair growth or lack hair in certain areas, like the front. This is often due to hormonal changes after birth.
A newborn's hormone levels decrease significantly after birth. This hormonal shift can lead to the loss of the hair the baby was born with. This hair loss is normal and often temporary (1). The hair may grow back differently than it initially appeared.
Variable Hair Growth Patterns
Hair growth in babies is highly variable. Some babies are born with a full head of hair, while others have very little. It's not unusual for a baby to have hair in some areas (like the back and sides) but not others (like the front). This is a normal variation in hair growth patterns (2, 5, 7). The hair at the front may grow in later, or it may have a different texture or color than the hair in other areas of the scalp.
No Cause for Alarm
In most cases, a lack of hair in the front of a baby's head is nothing to worry about. Unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's usually a matter of normal growth and development (5, 8). The hair will likely grow in over time.
- Example: A baby may have a full head of dark hair at birth, but then lose much of it in the first few months, only to have sparser, lighter hair grow back.
When to Consult a Doctor
While uneven hair growth is often benign, it's advisable to consult a pediatrician if you have concerns or notice other symptoms such as:
- Significant overall hair loss
- Skin abnormalities on the scalp
- Underlying health conditions
