Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Hair Loss
DESCRIPTION
Hair loss (alopecia) can occur in patches or throughout the
scalp. The causes are many, including ringworm.
Causes of hair loss that don't require medical treatment
include:
- Newborn hair loss. The hair of many newborns falls out
during the first few months of life. This baby hair is
replaced by permanent hair.
- Rubbing. Babies from 3 to 6 months of age commonly rub
off a patch of hair on the back of their head due to
friction during head-turning against the mattresses of
cribs, playpens, and infant seats. The hair grows back
once they start sitting up.
- Hair abuse. Hair can be lost because of vigorous
hairbrushing, hot combs, tight pony tails, or braids.
- Stress. Hair follicles are very sensitive to stress.
The hair begins to fall out about 3 months (100 days)
after a severe stress (such as high fever, severe
illness, a psychological crisis, a crash diet, surgery,
or even childbirth). The hair falls out from all parts
of the head over the next 3 or 4 months. After the hair
stops shedding, it takes another 6 to 8 months for all of
the hair to grow back. The whole cycle takes about
12 months. This type of hair loss is called telogen
effluvium.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- Your child's hair loss is caused by something other than
one of the causes listed above.
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