Key takeaways: Lanugo, the soft body hair some newborns have, falls out in the first weeks. Many babies lose some scalp hair in the first months, often at the back of the head from lying on it. Hair regrows on its own. Patchy hair loss with scaling or broken hairs should be checked.
Some babies are born with a full head of hair; others are almost bald. Hair often changes a lot in the first year.
Lanugo
Lanugo is fine, soft hair that covers a baby’s body in the womb. Most is shed before birth, but some babies, especially premature babies, still have it on their shoulders, back, ears, and face. It falls out naturally in the first weeks.
Newborn Scalp Hair Loss
Many babies lose some or most of their birth hair in the first months. Hormone changes after birth shift hair into a resting phase, and the hair then sheds. New hair grows in, sometimes with a different color or texture.
Bald Spots From Friction
A bald patch on the back of the head is common, often around 2 to 4 months. It comes from rubbing against the crib mattress or other surfaces. It’s harmless and improves as babies spend more time sitting up and moving. More tummy time and changing your baby’s position can also help prevent flat spots on the head.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book covers everyday newborn care month by month, plus the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor.
Cradle Cap
Cradle cap causes yellow, greasy scales on the scalp. When scales are removed, some hair may come with them. The hair grows back. Gentle washing and soft brushing help.
Hair Color and Texture
Your baby’s hair may change color or texture throughout the first years.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Hair loss in babies is usually normal. Talk to your doctor if:
- Hair loss is patchy with redness, scaling, or broken hairs (possible fungal infection).
- There are smooth, round bald patches (possible alopecia areata, uncommon in infants).
- Your baby shows other signs of illness or poor growth.
- You notice a hair wrapped tightly around a finger, toe, or other body part (a hair tourniquet), which needs prompt removal.
Gentle Hair Care
- Wash with a mild baby shampoo a few times a week.
- Use a soft brush.
- Avoid tight hair accessories.
The Bottom Line
Baby hair changes a lot in the first year. Lanugo and early hair loss are normal, and friction bald spots improve with time. Patchy hair loss with skin changes should be checked.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology. Hair loss in children. https://www.aad.org
- Cutrone M, Grimalt R. Transient neonatal hair loss: a common transient neonatal dermatosis. Eur J Pediatr. 2005;164(10):630-632.
- Altmann TR, Hill DL, eds. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5. 7th ed. American Academy of Pediatrics; 2019.
- Laughlin J, Luerssen TG, Dias MS; Committee on Practice and Ambulatory Medicine; Section on Neurological Surgery. Prevention and management of positional skull deformities in infants. Pediatrics. 2011;128(6):1236-1241.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
