Hair loss in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal or bacterial infections, stress-related hair loss (telogen effluvium), and hair pulling (traction alopecia). The most common cause is scalp ringworm, a treatable fungal infection. Other possible causes include alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles), trichotillomania (a hair-pulling disorder), nutritional deficiencies, and tight hairstyles.
Here are some common causes of hair loss in children:
- Scalp ringworm (Tinea capitis): A fungal infection that causes patchy hair loss, scaling, and itching.
- Alopecia areata: An autoimmune disorder that causes round patches of hair loss on the scalp, face, or other parts of the body.
- Telogen effluvium: A condition caused by stress, illness, or other factors that cause hair follicles to enter a resting phase, resulting in increased shedding.
- Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by tight hairstyles that pull on the hair follicles.
- Trichotillomania: A hair-pulling disorder that can lead to patchy hair loss.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Hair loss can be a symptom of certain nutritional deficiencies, such as iron or zinc deficiency.
If you are concerned about your child's hair loss, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment.
