Most Common & Uncommon Causes of Hair Loss in Children

When you see strands of your child’s hair on their pillow or notice a sudden bald patch on their scalp, it’s only natural to worry. Hair loss in children, though not as widely discussed as in adults, is surprisingly common, and in many cases, very treatable.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the common and uncommon causes of hair loss in children, both medical and non-medical, so you know what to watch for and when to seek help. Let’s break it down, together.

How Does Hair Normally Grow?

Understanding why hair falls out starts with knowing how it grows. Hair grows in cycles:

• Anagen (growth phase): lasts 2–6 years
• Catagen (transition phase): lasts a few weeks
• Telogen (resting/shedding phase): lasts about 2–3 months

At any time, about 10–15% of the hair is in the telogen phase — and when that percentage increases suddenly, visible hair loss occurs.

Medical Causes of Hair Loss in Children

These are causes that stem from underlying health conditions, infections, or immune responses. Most require medical diagnosis and, in many cases, targeted treatment.

1. Infectious Causes of Hair Loss

Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of the Scalp)

One of the most common fungal infections that leads to hair loss in children is tinea capitis, also known as ringworm of the scalp. This condition is highly contagious, often spreading through shared items like hats, combs, and pillows.

Symptoms:

• Patchy hair loss
• Scaly, itchy scalp
• Broken hairs with black dots
• Redness or swelling

Treatment:

• Oral antifungal medication like griseofulvin for about 8 weeks.
• Antifungal shampoos such as ketoconazole to reduce the spread of infection.
• With proper treatment, this fungal infection can be cured, and hair regrowth occurs in time.

2. Autoimmune Causes of Hair Loss

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles. This results in sudden and often dramatic patchy hair loss. It can affect any part of the scalp and even other areas of the body.

Symptoms:

• Round, smooth patches of hair loss
• Sometimes, dents or pitting on the nails
• Hair loss can progress to alopecia totalis (total scalp hair loss) or alopecia universalis (loss of all body hair) in rare cases.
  

Treatment:

• Corticosteroid treatments, either as topical creams or injections, to reduce inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth.
• Minoxidil is sometimes used to promote hair regrowth.
• Newer medications like JAK inhibitors (e.g., ritlecitinib) may be considered for children over 12 years.

While hair regrowth can be unpredictable, many children experience full regrowth after a few months of treatment.

3. Hair Cycle Disturbances

1- Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss that occurs when the hair follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase prematurely. This condition is typically triggered by stress or illness, but can also be caused by factors like surgery, fever, or emotional trauma.

Symptoms:

• Increased shedding of hair, especially after bathing or brushing
  
• Diffuse thinning rather than patchy bald spots
  

Treatment:

• In most cases, telogen effluvium resolves on its own within 6 to 12 months as the stressor subsides.
  
• No specific treatment is usually needed; however, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help.
  

2- Anagen Effluvium

Anagen effluvium is rapid hair loss that occurs during the growth phase (anagen) of the hair cycle. This type of hair loss is most commonly linked to treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can disrupt hair follicle function.

Symptoms:

• Sudden, large-scale hair loss that happens days or weeks after starting treatment.
  

Treatment:

• Hair regrowth usually begins once treatment ends.
  
• Permanent hair loss is rare but possible in certain cases.
  

3- Loose Anagen Syndrome

In some children, particularly girls aged 2 to 7, the hair follicles do not securely anchor the hair during the anagen (growth) phase, leading to loose anagen syndrome. This condition results in painless hair loss but is usually not concerning.

Symptoms:

• Hair comes out easily with minimal force.
  
• Hair often doesn’t grow long, appearing sparse.
  

Treatment: Most children outgrow this condition as they get older. No treatment is typically needed, but gentle hair care is advised.

4- Short Anagen Syndrome

Short anagen syndrome is a benign condition where the growth phase of hair is shortened, resulting in short, sparse hair. This condition is often noticed when a child’s hair fails to grow beyond a certain length.

Symptoms:

• Sparse, fine hair that doesn’t grow long.
  
• The hair grows to a limited length due to the short anagen phase.
  

Treatment: This condition tends to improve as the child reaches puberty. No medical treatment is required, and the condition is not a cause for concern.

4. Hormonal and Endocrine Causes

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

The thyroid gland plays a key role in metabolism, and hypothyroidism occurs when it doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. This can result in various symptoms, including hair loss.

Symptoms:

• Fatigue, cold intolerance
  
• Dry skin, constipation
  
• Thinning or brittle hair
  

Diagnosis:

• Blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels.
  

Treatment:

• Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (e.g., levothyroxine) restores normal hormone levels and helps hair regrow.
  
• Once treated, hair often regrows, but it may take several months for full recovery.
  

1- Androgenetic Alopecia

Androgenetic alopecia, or genetic hair loss, can occur in adolescents and typically follows a pattern (e.g., thinning at the crown or hairline). This condition is linked to genetics and hormones, particularly androgens (male hormones).

Symptoms:

• Gradual thinning or shedding of hair, often starting in the teenage years.
  
• Hair thinning is often seen on the top of the scalp or at the hairline.
  

Treatment:

• Minoxidil (a topical solution) is the primary treatment to help slow hair loss and promote regrowth.
  

This condition may stabilize over time, but treatment is needed to manage its progression.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair health is closely linked to nutrition. A lack of certain vitamins and minerals can contribute to hair loss in children.

Common Nutritional Deficiencies:

• Iron: A lack of iron can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, causing hair to thin and fall out.
  
• Zinc: This mineral is vital for hair growth. A deficiency can lead to hair shedding.
  
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin is essential for healthy hair and skin.
  
• Vitamin A: While important, too much vitamin A can actually cause hair loss.
  

Symptoms:

• Hair thinning or excessive shedding
  
• Dry, brittle hair
  

Treatment:

• Blood tests to identify deficiencies.
• Dietary changes or supplements (but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional).

6. Scarring Alopecia (Permanent Hair Loss)

Scarring alopecia refers to conditions that result in permanent hair loss due to damage to the hair follicles.

Common Types of Scarring Alopecia:

• CCCA (Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia): Causes hair loss that starts from the center of the scalp and spreads outward.
  
• DLE (Discoid Lupus Erythematosus): An inflammatory disease that causes scarring and permanent hair loss.
  
• Lichen Planopilaris (LPP): A rare condition that causes scarring on the scalp, leading to permanent hair loss.
  

Treatment:

• Steroid treatments to reduce inflammation.
  
• Hydroxychloroquine for some autoimmune conditions.
  

Early treatment is crucial to slow or stop the scarring process and preserve remaining hair.

7. Congenital (Birth-Related) Causes of Hair Loss

Some children are born with conditions that affect hair growth, either through genetic factors or conditions that affect the scalp.

1- Aplasia Cutis Congenita

Aplasia cutis congenita is a rare condition in which part of the scalp is missing skin at birth. This may result in scarring alopecia.

Treatment:

• Small areas heal on their own.
  
• Larger lesions may require skin grafting.
  

2- Transient Neonatal Hair Loss

Many babies lose hair in the first few months of life. This is normal and called transient neonatal hair loss.

Treatment: No treatment is required. The hair regrows naturally.

3- Congenital Triangular Alopecia

This condition causes a non-progressive, triangular patch of hair loss on the scalp, typically found in the front or temples.

Treatment: Cosmetic or surgical options may be considered, but the condition does not worsen over time.

8. Other Medical Causes of Hair Loss

1- Iron Deficiency Anemia

Low iron levels can contribute to hair loss, and it is often linked to poor nutrition or certain medical conditions.

Treatment: Iron-rich foods or supplements, under medical supervision.

2- Scalp Injuries

Injuries such as burns or blows to the scalp can damage hair follicles, potentially leading to permanent hair loss if left untreated.

Treatment: Immediate medical treatment is required to minimize long-term damage.

3- Hair Shaft Disorders

Hair shaft disorders refer to conditions where the hair is structurally weak, causing it to break easily. These can be either congenital or the result of excessive styling and harsh treatments.

Treatment: Minimize damage through gentle care and avoiding harsh chemicals or heat treatments.

Non Medical Causes Hair Loss in Kids

Non-medical causes are often preventable, manageable, and reversible. Below, we explore the common non-medical causes of hair loss in children and provide helpful tips on how to address or prevent them.

1. Physiological Causes

Newborn Hair Loss

One of the most common causes of hair loss in infants is newborn hair loss. In the first few months of life, many babies shed their fine, soft hair, which is replaced by more permanent hair. This process is entirely normal and physiological, meaning there’s no need for concern.

What to expect:

• The baby’s hair will naturally fall out and be replaced with stronger, permanent hair.
  
• This process usually resolves itself without any intervention.
  

Treatment: None required—just be patient as your baby’s hair regrows naturally.

2. Traumatic Causes

1- Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)

Trichotillomania is a psychological condition where children compulsively pull, twist, or pluck their hair. Often triggered by stress or anxiety, this condition leads to patchy hair loss with broken hairs of varying lengths. This behavior can be difficult to control, and it’s often linked to emotional factors like school pressure or family changes.

Symptoms:

• Patchy hair loss with uneven hair lengths
  
• A tendency to pull hair during stressful situations or moments of anxiety
  

Treatment:

• Counseling or behavioral therapy to address the underlying psychological triggers of the hair-pulling behavior.
  
• Emotional support can also help reduce stress, which might alleviate the need to engage in these behaviors.

2- Traction Alopecia

Traction alopecia occurs when hair is subjected to excessive tension due to tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or hair extensions. Over time, this constant pulling weakens the hair follicles, leading to hair loss, particularly around the hairline. If left untreated, this can result in permanent hair damage or scarring.

Symptoms:

• Hair thinning or bald spots along the hairline or at the crown.
  
• Often associated with tight hairstyles.
  

Treatment:

• Loosen hairstyles to reduce tension on the hair.
  
• If inflammation occurs, antibiotics can be used to reduce infection.
  
• Avoid tight hairstyles to prevent further damage and allow hair regrowth.

3- Rubbing or Friction (Infants)

Newborns and young infants are prone to hair loss due to rubbing or friction. This type of hair loss usually happens when babies lie on their backs, causing friction between the scalp and surfaces like crib mattresses or car seats. This type of hair loss is particularly common between the ages of 3 and 6 months.

Symptoms:

• Hair loss on the back of the baby’s head where there’s constant rubbing.
  
• Often no other symptoms, and it’s seen primarily in infants who are not yet sitting up.
  

No treatment is required; the hair will regrow as the child becomes more mobile and begins to sit up. Encourage your baby to spend time on their tummy to reduce pressure on the scalp.

3. Cosmetic Causes

1- Hair Damage from Products

Chemical hair damage from products like bleach, hair dye, and perms can weaken and break the hair shaft, leading to hair loss. Many products on the market are designed for adult hair, which can be too harsh for a child’s delicate scalp and hair.

Symptoms:

• Breakage or hair loss following the use of harsh hair chemicals.
  
• Dryness, brittleness, and thinning of hair.
  

Treatment:

• Use non-toxic, child-safe hair products that are free from harsh chemicals.
  
• Avoid using chemical treatments like bleaching or perming on children’s hair.
  

2- Heat Damage

Excessive use of heat styling tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage the hair shaft and cause hair to weaken and fall out. Heat styling should be used sparingly, especially on children’s fine or fragile hair.

Symptoms:

• Dry, brittle hair that breaks easily.
  
• Hair loss due to repeated heat exposure.
  

Treatment:

• Limit the use of heat styling tools on children’s hair.
• Always use a heat protectant spray if styling tools are necessary.
• Opt for gentle, heat-free styles to minimize damage.

3- Vigorous Brushing or Back Combing

Rough handling of hair through excessive brushing or back combing can cause the hair to break, leading to hair loss. This is especially common when the child’s hair is tangled or knotted, and a parent or caregiver tries to remove the tangles too aggressively.

Symptoms:

• Broken hair strands.
  
• Thinning or patchy areas where the hair has been roughly handled.
  

Treatment:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or gentle brush to detangle hair.
  
• Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid putting pressure on the roots.

4. Psychological Causes

Stress-Induced Hair Loss

While stress is often linked to medical conditions like telogen effluvium, it can also manifest as non-medical hair loss. Stress-related habits such as hair-pulling (trichotillomania), excessive brushing, or aggressive styling can trigger hair shedding in children. Additionally, significant stress caused by family changes, school pressure, or other emotional factors can contribute to hair loss.

Symptoms:

• Hair thinning or excessive shedding triggered by stressful situations.
  
• Noticeable breakage from aggressive styling or hair-pulling.
  

Treatment:

• Provide emotional support to help manage stress.
• Therapy or counseling can be beneficial for children struggling with anxiety or stress.
• Teach children healthy coping mechanisms to handle stressful situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much hair loss is normal for a child?

It is normal for children to lose around 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. This amount typically goes unnoticed and is not a cause for concern.

What autoimmune disease causes hair loss in children?

Alopecia areata is the main autoimmune condition that causes hair loss in children. The immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to round, patchy hair loss.

Is it normal for a 7-year-old to lose hair?

Some hair loss in a 7-year-old can be normal, often due to stress, illness, or other minor factors. However, excessive loss, visible bald spots, or itching may signal a medical condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.

What does vitamin D hair loss look like?

Vitamin D deficiency can cause general hair thinning or patchy hair loss, with hair follicles entering a prolonged resting phase. Unlike other forms of hair loss, it doesn’t follow specific patterns like male or female pattern baldness.

What age is hair loss the worst?

Hair loss tends to be most severe around age 60 for men and age 50 for women, with genetics, hormones, and health factors playing a key role. This can lead to significant thinning or balding, especially in men.