How to Care for Your Infant’s Hair

When considering a hair care regimen for infants one should always follow the mindset that less is best! While it may be very tempting to go out and buy every baby hair care product available, it is recommended that you instead keep it simple.

Developing a hair care routine for your baby’s delicate tresses is simple: be gentle! Your baby’s hair has just begun developing and is extremely fragile, so a basic wash and moisturize routine is all you really need.

Washing

1. Wet your baby’s hair
2. Add a pea sized amount of a mild, gentle shampoo to the top of your baby’s head. SheaMoisture has a great baby hair care line that works well and smells amazing!
3. Massage the shampoo throughout the baby’s head, working up a small lather, with your fingers or a damp washcloth.
4. Rinse the shampoo out of your baby’s hair with lukewarm water.
5. Depending on the age of your baby, usually older than 9 months, add about a quarter sized amount of a mild conditioner to the damp hair.
6. Let conditioner remain in the hair for about 5 minutes or while you wash your baby’s body.
7. Gently work out any tangles by separating large sections of hair into smaller sections with your fingers.
8. Rinse the conditioner out of your baby’s hair with lukewarm water.
9. Apply a quarter sized amount of a natural oil such as jojoba or coconut oil by massaging it into the hair and scalp.

Styling

At this early stage in hair growth and development for your baby, it is recommended that you do not style your baby’s hair using damaging hair accessories such as rubber bands, beads or barrettes. These accessories can damage and break off their delicate hair. Instead opt for a cute, soft, fabric headband or let her rock a little baby ‘fro.

Common Infant Hair Issues

Infant Hair Loss

Your baby’s hair may shed a lot during her first year of life. This is mainly due to her hair rubbing against abrasive fabric such as cotton. To minimize hair loss and thinning , always lie her down on a satin backed baby blanket.

Cradle Cap

Many babies suffer from cradle cap during their first few months of life. While the look of your child’s scabby scalp may be alarming, cradle cap usually goes away by itself. If it appears as though the cradle cap isn’t clearing up, you may want to schedule a visit with your baby’s pediatrician to discuss treatment options.

Starting your baby’s natural hair routine can be overwhelming! Relax, you are doing just fine! You have plenty of time to find what works well for your baby. And if you have any additional questions, email us, comment below or hit us up on Facebook or Instagram!

If you are in need of step-by-step instructions on caring for your baby’s hair, consider checking out our New Mom’s Guide to Infant Hair Care Ebook
!