Hair loss is not an issue exclusive to adults; some children can also be affected by this problem. Childhood hair loss typically accounts for 3% to 8% of pediatric consultations. A child with hair loss should first have their history evaluated. Parents need to observe if there was any recent infection, the use of any medication, changes in the child’s habits, especially eating habits, among other factors1. There is a condition known as tinea capitis, which is a fungal infection by dermatophytes and is one of the most common forms of alopecia2. Alopecia areata is another common cause of hair loss, which does not leave scars, can be recurrent, may be localized in a specific region of the scalp, or spread across the entire scalp.
IMPORTANT: In cases of recurrent hair loss in children, diagnosis must be carried out via laboratory tests to identify the causative agent and to guide appropriate treatment.
Curiosities About Childhood Hair Loss
According to scientific data, a person usually loses between 100 and 150 hairs per day, and every 24 hours, hair grows about 0.35 mm. This natural hair loss is a genetically programmed cycle; the replacement of all hair strands occurs between 3 and 5 years old, but this can vary from person to person. Hair loss in 2-year-old children can be related to issues such as alopecia or some atypical problem that can also affect other areas like nails and teeth. However, it’s worth noting that most specialists point out that hair replacement may naturally occur up until two years of age. Nearly all newborns lose some or all of their hair by six months old, and this hair renewal is natural. After this phase, a child may lose hair due to friction with the mattress they sleep on, reactions to hygiene products such as shampoos or soaps. Childhood hair loss may be related to medication reactions or even nutrient deficiencies in the diet. Hair loss in 7-year-old children may be a reflection of more complex conditions such as: depression, infectious illnesses, behavioral disorders, anxiety, and stress. Ideally, parents should always pay attention, and at any sign of abnormality, take the child for a pediatric consultation to investigate the child’s health. In some cases, after diagnosis, the child may need to take some type of vitamin or use a specific lotion to treat hair loss. The important thing is for parents to always be alert, and if bald spots appear in certain areas of the scalp, it is recommended to urgently see a dermatologist.
Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is considered one of the most severe cases of hair loss, characterized by the habit of pulling out one’s own hair. This is a disease that can lead to baldness and should be treated as soon as possible. The child should undergo appropriate psychological treatment, since in many cases, the development of the disorder is also related to some psychological issue3.
Causes of Hair Loss in Childhood
May be congenital in origin – When hereditary factors are linked to a child’s hair loss. Traumatic origin – When hair loss is associated with injury to the scalp. Neurotic origin – This category includes trichotillomania, where the child pulls out their own hair. Relation to seborrhea – Seborrheic dermatitis can be related to childhood hair loss, causing flaking, redness, and itching, but it is not usually a significant cause of hair loss. Secondary factors – When hair loss may be related to medication, illness, or any abnormality in the child’s health. Relation to emotional factors – Alopecia areata is characterized by the rapid loss of hair and is closely linked to emotional factors. Only after solving these problems does the hair begin to grow back. Biochemical factor – Some allergies, such as to gluten, wheat, or lactose, can also cause hair loss, but hair loss is not the main symptom of these issues.
Tips to Reduce Hair Loss
Some of the basic tips to avoid hair loss in children are: do not comb dry curly hair, as this can cause hair breakage and encourage hair loss; it is recommended to wash the child’s hair every other day; for curly or coily hair, the use of leave-in conditioners is recommended; do not let the child sleep with wet hair; adult-use products should not be used. If the hair loss appears abnormal, it is important that parents inform the pediatrician so the child can be referred to a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.
