Patchy Hair Loss in Baby
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician
Content reviewed against published AAP, AAD, NIH guidelines
Last reviewed:
Baby skin is sensitive and changes frequently. If you are noticing patchy hair loss in baby, here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Patchy hair loss in babies is usually caused by friction from lying on the back (positional alopecia), a very common and harmless condition. Other causes include alopecia areata, scalp ringworm, or cradle cap. Positional hair loss fills in naturally as the baby spends more time sitting up.
Key takeaways
- Patchy hair loss in babies is usually caused by friction from lying on the back (positional alopecia), a very common and harmless condition. Other causes include alopecia areata, scalp ringworm, or cradle cap. Positional hair loss fills in naturally as the baby spends more time sitting up.
- Usually normal when: A bald spot at the back of the head from sleeping on the back that gradually fills in
- Call your doctor if: Hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
“Eczema is very common in babies and children. About 1 in 10 children will develop eczema, typically starting in the first few months of life.”
Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.
What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, AAD, NIH guidelines, patchy hair loss in babies is usually caused by friction from lying on the back (positional alopecia), a very common and harmless condition. Other causes include alopecia areata, scalp ringworm, or cradle cap. Positional hair loss fills in naturally as the baby spends more time sitting up. At 0-3 months, many newborns lose their birth hair in the first few months, which is normal. Babies who sleep on their backs (as recommended for safe sleep) often develop a bald patch at the back of the head from friction. This is completely harmless and resolves as the baby grows. It is generally considered normal when a bald spot at the back of the head from sleeping on the back that gradually fills in. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-3 months
Many newborns lose their birth hair in the first few months, which is normal. Babies who sleep on their backs (as recommended for safe sleep) often develop a bald patch at the back of the head from friction. This is completely harmless and resolves as the baby grows.
3-6 months
The positional bald spot is often most noticeable at this age. Hair may also be thin if the baby rubs their head against the crib mattress. This is normal and not a sign of a nutritional problem. As tummy time and sitting increase, the friction-related hair loss will improve.
6-12 months
As babies sit up and spend less time on their backs, positional hair loss usually fills in. If new, well-defined round patches of hair loss appear without scaling or redness, alopecia areata should be considered and evaluated by your pediatrician.
12-24 months
Toddlers may develop hair loss from alopecia areata, tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), or hair-pulling habits (trichotillomania). If you notice new patches of hair loss that are not related to friction, or if the scalp in the bald area looks scaly or has black dots, have your pediatrician evaluate it.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed patchy hair loss in baby and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if well-defined round patches of complete hair loss appear.
- Mention if hair loss is accompanied by scaling, redness, or itching of the scalp.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- A bald spot at the back of the head from sleeping on the back that gradually fills in
- Normal shedding of newborn hair in the first few months
- Thinning of the overall hair that resolves as new hair grows in
- Well-defined round patches of complete hair loss appear
- Hair loss is accompanied by scaling, redness, or itching of the scalp
- Your child appears to be pulling out their own hair
- Hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis
- Widespread hair loss with other signs of illness such as fatigue or weight loss
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice patchy hair loss in baby — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that a bald spot at the back of the head from sleeping on the back that gradually fills in — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products on your baby's skin. Avoid over-bathing — 2-3 baths per week is usually sufficient.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis.
Related Conditions
Alopecia Areata in Babies
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing round, smooth patches of hair loss. While uncommon in babies, it can occur at any age. The condition is not painful or contagious. Many children experience spontaneous hair regrowth, though it may take months. Your pediatrician or dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis.
Scalp Ringworm (Tinea Capitis) in Baby
Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes scaly patches, itching, and areas of hair loss. Unlike ringworm on the body, scalp ringworm requires oral antifungal medication because topical creams cannot penetrate the hair follicle adequately. The hair typically grows back fully after successful treatment.
Hair Loss with Cradle Cap
Mild hair loss around cradle cap areas is common and temporary. The scales can trap hair as they flake off, making it look like hair is falling out. Gentle treatment of cradle cap preserves the hair follicles, and hair grows back fully once the condition resolves. Avoid picking at scales, as aggressive removal can pull out more hair.
Related Resources
Baby Skin Conditions Guide
Visual guide to common baby skin conditions, rashes, and when to see a doctor.
Month-by-Month Development
Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.
When to Call the Doctor
General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.
Frequently asked questions
Is patchy hair loss in baby normal?
When should I call the doctor about patchy hair loss in baby?
When is patchy hair loss in baby normal?
What causes patchy hair loss in baby?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about patchy hair loss in baby?
Is patchy hair loss in baby normal at 0-3 months?
Is patchy hair loss in baby normal at 3-6 months?
Should I go to the ER for patchy hair loss in baby?
Does patchy hair loss in baby go away on its own?
References
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Patchy Hair Loss in Baby.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed patchy hair loss in baby and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if well-defined round patches of complete hair loss appear.
- Mention if hair loss is accompanied by scaling, redness, or itching of the scalp.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Well-defined round patches of complete hair loss appear
- Hair loss is accompanied by scaling, redness, or itching of the scalp
- Your child appears to be pulling out their own hair
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis
- Widespread hair loss with other signs of illness such as fatigue or weight loss
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of patchy hair loss in baby are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if hair loss with a swollen, boggy, tender scalp area suggesting a kerion from tinea capitis.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Related Skin Concerns
Alopecia Areata in Babies
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing round, smooth patches of hair loss. While uncommon in babies, it can occur at any age. The condition is not painful or contagious. Many children experience spontaneous hair regrowth, though it may take months. Your pediatrician or dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis.
Scalp Ringworm (Tinea Capitis) in Baby
Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) is a fungal infection of the scalp that causes scaly patches, itching, and areas of hair loss. Unlike ringworm on the body, scalp ringworm requires oral antifungal medication because topical creams cannot penetrate the hair follicle adequately. The hair typically grows back fully after successful treatment.
Hair Loss with Cradle Cap
Mild hair loss around cradle cap areas is common and temporary. The scales can trap hair as they flake off, making it look like hair is falling out. Gentle treatment of cradle cap preserves the hair follicles, and hair grows back fully once the condition resolves. Avoid picking at scales, as aggressive removal can pull out more hair.
My Baby Has an Extra Nipple (Accessory Nipple)
Accessory (supernumerary) nipples are one of the most common minor congenital findings, occurring in about 1 in 18 people. They appear as small, flat, often pigmented bumps along the "milk line" — an embryonic line running from the armpit to the groin on each side. Most people mistake them for moles. Accessory nipples are almost always harmless and require no treatment. In rare cases, they may be associated with kidney abnormalities, so some pediatricians recommend a renal ultrasound if one is found, though this practice varies.
My Baby Was Born with a Raw Spot on Their Scalp (Aplasia Cutis)
Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is a condition where a baby is born with a small area of missing skin, most commonly on the scalp. It occurs in about 1 in 10,000 births. The affected area may look like a raw wound, an ulcer, or may have already healed into a thin, shiny scar by the time of birth. Most cases are small, isolated, and heal well with basic wound care — the area eventually forms a hairless scar. Larger defects or those associated with other findings may need more investigation, but isolated small ACC has an excellent prognosis.
New Treatments for Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) in Children
Treatment for atopic dermatitis in children has advanced significantly in recent years. While moisturizers and topical steroids remain first-line treatments, newer options include non-steroidal topical medications (like crisaborole), biologic therapies (like dupilumab, approved for children 6 months and older), and JAK inhibitors. Most children's eczema is well-managed with basic skin care and mild topical treatments, but these newer options provide hope for moderate-to-severe cases.