It's common for babies to experience hair loss, particularly on the top of their head, often due to a combination of factors that are usually completely normal.
Common Reasons for Baby Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Here's a breakdown of the most frequent reasons why your baby might be losing hair on the top of their head:
- Normal Shedding: Many babies lose the hair they're born with in the first few months of life. This is a natural part of their development and is called telogen effluvium. This happens because hormone levels that were high during pregnancy drop after birth, causing the hair to shed. New hair will eventually grow in its place.
- Friction: Babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs, especially in the early months. This constant rubbing against mattresses, car seat headrests, or swings can cause hair to wear away on the back and top of the head.
- Sleeping Position: Babies often favor sleeping in one particular position, leading to localized hair loss where their head rests. Encourage tummy time when baby is awake and supervised to alleviate pressure.
- Medical Conditions (Less Common): In rare cases, hair loss can be related to a medical condition such as:
- Tinea capitis (ringworm): A fungal infection that can cause patchy hair loss.
- Alopecia areata: An autoimmune condition that causes sudden, patchy hair loss. This is less common in infants.
- Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis): While cradle cap itself doesn't directly cause hair loss, the scratching and rubbing associated with it can sometimes contribute to breakage or shedding.
What to Do
In most cases, baby hair loss is temporary and resolves on its own. Here are some things you can do:
- Vary Sleeping Position: Alternate the position of your baby's head each night when putting them down to sleep.
- Encourage Tummy Time: Supervised tummy time helps reduce pressure on the back of the head.
- Soft Bedding: Use soft bedding materials.
- Consult Your Pediatrician: If you are concerned about your baby's hair loss, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like a rash, scaling, or if your baby seems uncomfortable, consult your pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Summary
Baby balding on the top of the head is very common and usually not a cause for concern. It is usually due to normal hormonal changes and friction from lying on their back. However, it's always a good idea to discuss any concerns you have about your baby's health with their pediatrician.
