my baby is 3 months old and is a premie. I notice some hair fall. what to do about it?

Question

Accepted Answer

It's common for newborns, including preemies, to experience hair loss. This condition, known as neonatal alopecia or telogen effluvium, occurs as a normal part of a baby's development. Here are some reasons why this might be happening and what you can do about it:

### Reasons for Hair Loss in Newborns:
1. **Hormonal Changes:**
   - After birth, babies undergo hormonal changes that can cause their hair to enter a resting phase and eventually fall out.

2. **Shedding of Newborn Hair:**
   - Many babies are born with a fine layer of hair called lanugo, which they shed within the first few months of life.

3. **Friction:**
   - Hair loss can occur due to friction from rubbing against surfaces like mattresses, car seats, or from frequent head-turning.

### What You Can Do:
1. **Gentle Care:**
   - Wash your baby’s hair with a mild, baby-friendly shampoo. Avoid harsh chemicals and frequent washing, which can irritate the scalp.

2. **Avoid Tight Headgear:**
   - Loose-fitting hats and caps are better than tight ones, which can cause friction and hair loss.

3. **Minimize Friction:**
   - Use soft, smooth fabrics for bedding and avoid rough materials that can rub against your baby's head.
   - Change your baby’s sleeping position regularly to prevent constant pressure on one part of the head.

4. **Nutrition:**
   - Ensure your baby is getting adequate nutrition. If breastfeeding, maintain a balanced diet yourself to provide essential nutrients. If formula feeding, ensure it's meeting your baby's nutritional needs.

5. **Patience:**
   - In most cases, hair loss in newborns is temporary. The hair usually grows back on its own over time.

### When to Seek Medical Advice:
While hair loss in newborns is generally normal, consult your pediatrician if you notice:
- **Patches of baldness:** Uneven patches of hair loss might indicate a fungal infection like ringworm.
- **Rashes or Redness:** Signs of irritation, rashes, or scalp infections.
- **Concerns about Overall Health:** If the hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms like poor growth, feeding difficulties, or general health concerns.

Your pediatrician can assess if there's an underlying condition and provide appropriate guidance. Overall, hair loss in newborns, including preemies, is usually a natural process and often resolves on its own.