It is not unusual for newborn babies to experience hair loss. A parent becomes more concerned when it carries on to toddlerhood and childhood. The roots of the hair loss and breakage can be traced to underlying medical conditions. However, there are other factors that account for hair loss and breakage in children, these include:
1. Tension
Just like adults, children also face traction alopecia. Hairstyles such as tiny ponytails, tight ghana weaving, twisted styles cause to much tension on the hair. Sooner or later the hair becomes uneven, bald patches appear and the hair edges get damaged. To correct this, choose milder and loose hairstyles. Also treat the affected hair area with black castor oil.
2. Irregular washing and conditioning
The hair harbours product residue, dead cells, and bacteria It is important to wash the hair to cleanse it from all impurities. It is advisable use a sulfate-free shampoo with a moisture-rich conditioner for children. Most companies do not offer deep conditioners designed specifically for children, so you may introduce adult deep conditioners and/or DIY deep conditioners to your child’s hair care routine.
3. Dryness
Black hair thrives in moisture. While all hair is different, parents should always moisturize their child’s hair with a water-based or leave-in cream at least every three days. Spritz the hair with a liquid, such as water, then apply a cream moisturizer or leave-in, and follow up with an oil that can help to seal the moisture.
4. No protection at night
Infants ages three to six months are especially vulnerable to friction alopecia. Your child may be young for scarves and bonnets but there are other ways to protect their hair from friction, such as silk or satin pillowcases and sheets. Cotton pillowcases absorb the hair’s moisture making strands dry and more prone to breakage.
5. Too much manipulation
Tight hairdos result to hair breakage. Instead, go for loose, protective styles for your children that can last at least a few days to reduce styling frequency and reduce breakage.