Why Do Some Newborns Have So Much Hair?
Some newborns have a surprisingly high amount of hair, while others have no or only a gentle down. Why is that?
A common myth is that mothers with heartburn give birth to babies with plump hair. But this is an old wives tale that lacks any logic.
You don’t have to worry if your child has little hair when it is born. The fine fluff gradually falls out until the child’s hair slowly grows again.
Experts assure that the full head of hair at birth is due to genetic factors.
Newborn hair changes over time. It can be smooth or light and later develop curls or darken. Here the genes of the parents play a direct influence. But it takes time to see what shape and color the child’s hair is.
But today we are looking into the question of why some babies have a lot of hair when they are born.
Why do some children have so much hair when they are born?
The Spanish Society of Neonatology informs that this phenomenon cannot yet be precisely explained. However, many experts assure that genetic factors mainly play a role, especially with regard to hair density, shape and distribution.
The ethnic group of the parents also plays an important role. For example, populations closer to Ecuador have more and fuller hair than populations from the north. The texture, distribution and density of the hair also differ.
In general, Andean tribes have the most hair all over their bodies, while Asiatic peoples and Eskimos are less hairy.
But how does the development of the small abdominal dweller influence whether a baby is born with more or less hair?
The hair follicles, in which the hair is formed in the hair root, develop from the fifth month of pregnancy. But in the eighth month of pregnancy, practically all hair falls out at the same time, so that stronger hair can grow back, which is present until the baby is around six months old.
In some cases, babies are born with cradle cap, which leads to increased hair loss. But as long as it is not seborrheic dermatitis, the hair will grow back. If in doubt, you should definitely take your baby to the dermatologist for an examination.
How can I take care of the delicate baby hair?
Whether a child has a lot of hair at birth or less depends mainly on the genes of the mother and father. When grooming, it is important to use quality products and proceed gently and carefully.
Choose skin-friendly baby shampoo, if possible with natural ingredients. Baby shampoo is specially developed for the tiny hairs of the little ones, does not sting the eyes and is hypoallergenic.
The shampoo should only have a very gentle scent, because strong smells can cause irritation and allergies in babies.
You can start using conditioner from the age of six months if your baby has curls. Because this way you can comb the hair more easily, protect it and moisturize it at the same time.
Gently dry the hair after the bath to prevent mycosis from developing on baby’s gentle skin. Use a gentle baby brush to avoid hurting your little one while combing. Use this brush only on your baby to prevent them from becoming infected with fungal infections or lice.
Whether your child has a lot of hair at birth or not, they need the right care. Enjoy the time with your little angel and watch all the changes that are sure to amaze you.
