How to Care for an Infant's Hair

On top of everything else you have to do as a new parent, you may be wondering about your infant's hair. Products for hair care of infants are vast in number, and you're probably wondering how necessary hair care for your infant is.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Watch for cradle cap. Cradle cap is a normal build-up of oils on the scalp resulting in a dry, crusty flaking. It looks like your baby has dry skin on the scalp. Treatment involves shampooing daily, rubbing the scalp with mineral oil an hour before shampooing and rubbing at the scalp with a soft brush called a cradle cap brush.
2. Wash your infant's hair every few days unless he has cradle cap. Babies don't need their hair washed every day—in fact, according to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics), they only need baths once or twice a week.
3. Lean your baby's head back to wash her hair, leaving the scalp unprotected. Gently rub a small amount of shampoo into the scalp. Rinse dry with a wet washcloth. Avoid holding your baby's head under running water, as this may frighten your baby.
4. Purchase a mild shampoo for baby's hair. It doesn't have to be baby shampoo, just mild shampoo.
5. Choose a soft brush designed for baby's hair for brushing.

Tips & Warnings

• It's normal for the hair a baby has at birth to fall out. New hair will grow in within a few weeks to a month.
• Don't be alarmed if your baby starts crying during shampooing. Many newborns cry during baths due to the temperature change and the sensation of water.
• Avoid pressing into the soft spots on the top and on the back of your baby's head. However, gentle shampooing and hair brushing is fine.