Scalp Care

Babies are born with a soft spot on top of the head called the fontanel. This area will become firmer and eventually disappear as the skull grows. Handle the scalp, and this area in particular, very gently as it is sensitive and can remain so for the first few years of a child’s life.

Cradle cap - scaly, crusty-looking white or yellow patches that appears on the scalp of babies - is a fairly common condition that appears within the first three months after birth and can persist for a few weeks or months.

Babies hair requires simple - yet delicate - grooming. Avoid heavy, greasy products and instead stick to light oils such as jojoba or coconut oil (used vary sparingly) or for thicker hair, try those products espcially formulated for babies such as Roots2Ends Baby Pomade. Comb or brush the hair very gently using a soft bristle brush or wide-tooth comb in the direction of growth, ensuring the hair is free of tangles.

Babies commonly have short hair on the back and/or sides with longer hair in the front. This can occur when the baby sleeps on its back and side and rubs off the soft ‘baby hair’. This will remain short until the more mature and stronger hair begins to grow and is a temporary condition and not a cause for concern. Remember, the hair texture of children is immature until they are around seven years old and their hair will grow and shed as well as change textures several times up until that time.

Avoid pulling or stretching the hair into styles as this can cause long-term damage to hair follicles, as can uncovered rubber bands. Stay away from hair accessories which could easily come out of baby's hair and pose as a choking hazard. Don’t worry too much about getting the hair looking picture perfect - it is more important that the hair and scalp is kept clean and untangled and baby is happy.