Why Do Some Babies Have No Hair?
Some babies are born with a full head of hair, while others have little to none. This is perfectly normal. The amount of hair a baby has at birth varies greatly.
Several factors contribute to the amount of hair a newborn has:
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Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the baby receives hormones from the mother. After birth, these hormone levels drop significantly. This hormonal shift can influence the amount of hair the baby has at birth and whether any existing hair falls out shortly after birth. (WebMD, Reddit)
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Genetics: A baby's genetic makeup plays a significant role in determining hair characteristics, including the amount of hair they are born with. Family history can be a good indicator of potential hair growth patterns. (23andMe)
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Lanugo: A fetus is covered in fine, downy hair called lanugo while in the womb. This hair helps regulate temperature and protects the baby's skin. Some babies are born with more lanugo than others, which may contribute to the appearance of having more hair at birth. (Cleveland Clinic)
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Post-natal shedding: Many babies experience hair loss shortly after birth. This is often due to hormonal changes and is usually temporary. (Healthline)
It's Perfectly Normal!
It's important to remember that both scenarios – having a lot of hair or little to no hair at birth – are perfectly normal. The amount of hair a baby has at birth does not predict future hair growth or thickness.