When babies are born hairless, parents often wonder what they can do to encourage hair growth. Babies may reach the toddler years with little hair naturally, or they may suffer from common childhood ailments that lead to hair thinning or loss.
Factors Affecting Growth
Like older children and adults, toddler hair growth is affected by hormone levels. These hormones cause the hair to go in and out of growth, resting and shedding phases. If babies are still relatively bald by age 2, a pediatrician should be consulted. Once the hair grows in, its color and texture are controlled by genetics. (babyzone.com, pp. 1-3)
Types of Toddler Hair Loss
Tinea Capitis
Tinea Capitis or "ringworm of the scalp" is a fungal disease that affects the hair follicles of the scalp. The fungus is highly contagious and leaves itchy, round patches of missing hair on the scalp.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia refers to a type of hair loss that is common in toddler girls and occurs most commonly along the hair edges and hairline. This form of hair loss comes as a result of tight braiding styles, ponytails or even chemical treatments performed on the child's hair too soon.
Telogen Effluvium
Toddler hair that was once growing normally can be converted to a resting phase by something as common as a fever during a bout with the flu. Once the resting phase ends, hair enters a shedding phase and hair loss occurs. (http://www.hairlosstalk.com)
Solutions for Toddler Hair Growth
Massage
Stimulation through massage is an effective way to encourage the flow of nutrients to the scalp. A massage is also another way to bond with your toddler during the day. (www.hairlossexpert.co.uk)
Cut out Shampoos
Try washing your toddler's hair with light instant conditioners only, rather than stripping shampoos. This "conditioner only" method will increase the hair's moisture retention and help fight any dryness and breakage your toddler may encounter. (hairboutique.com)
Styling
Avoid heat styling and pulling toddler hair too tightly. Toddler hair is very fragile and often cannot endure the extra stress and tension required to achieve and maintain those styles. (hairlosstalk.com)
Night Care
For toddler hair that is prone to rubbing out during the night, opt for a satin pillowcase to reduce the breakage and friction.
Have Fun
Give your toddler's hair time, and it will grow on its own barring any medical complications or issues. If you suspect a real problem with your toddler's hair growth or maintenance, see his pediatrician for advice.
Whatever you do with your toddler's hair, make it fun. Very few toddlers enjoy having their hair washed, combed or styled--so sing, splash and help your little one enjoy their hair routine as much as possible.
Considerations
Avoid using essential oils on small children. Though these oils are natural, a toddler's delicate skin may not be able to tolerate these skin penetrating oils--even with a strong carrier. (antiagingchoices.com)
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