Does the baby's hair grow in the womb or after birth?

When a new baby is born, there are some babies who already have hair. Some are thick or thin. Hair growth rate varies based on age and sex and is influenced by hormones, nutritional adequacy, and genetic factors. However, when does baby hair actually start growing? Is it from the womb or after birth? Check out the explanation below.

When does baby hair grow?

The baby's hair has grown since the mother's womb. Fetal hair growth begins around 8-12 weeks of gestation. Hair grows in all parts of the body except on the lips, palms and soles of the feet. The growth also comes in different lengths and thicknesses. This baby hair is called lanugo.

The process of growing baby's hair

There are three phases of hair growth. Anagen is the phase when hair grows. Catagen is an intermediate phase before entering the final phase, namely telogen. Hair will fall in the telogen phase as dead hair. After undergoing these phases, most babies will be born with hair on their heads that is thick enough.

However, the hair that forms in this womb will generally fall off within the first six months. After the hair that is formed in the womb falls, new hair will grow which is permanent and follows the natural hair growth cycle.

Initially hair looks thin after fall, because some babies do not immediately enter the new anagen phase. Generally, at the age of one and a half to two years, new, permanent hair grows.

Sometimes the fallen baby's hair can form a certain pattern or only in certain parts, for example on the back of the head. This can still be considered normal in infants less than six months of age. Meanwhile, for babies born prematurely, there are often many lanugos, especially on the back, shoulders, arms and ears.

Baby hair growth patterns vary because they are genetically determined. There are those who are born, their heads are full of hair. However, there are also three to six months old whose head is still bald. This is generally normal and should not be overly concerned.

Baby hair will fall out, but when to see a doctor?

Hair loss in babies in the first three to six months is normal. Usually the third and fourth months is the peak of the baby's hair loss.

In toddlers, after the hair loss phase at the age of three to four months, they will enter a phase of hair growth for toddlers that is thicker and may be different from before.

Baby habits such as scratching the scalp or banging the head can make their hair fall out. However, usually over time the habit will disappear. Guide your baby to avoid scratching his head, pulling his hair, or rubbing his head.

Some hair loss in babies, although rare, can be caused by certain diseases. For example, skin infections due to fungi or hormonal disorders. Consult your doctor if your baby has severe hair loss after more than six months of age.

Some babies are born with very fine hair, which makes them look bald. This is still quite normal. This very thin baby hair is usually only thickened at the age of one year. However, if you have further doubts or questions, talk to your pediatrician.