Hair loss in children, although much less common than in adults, can happen. The main cause of hair loss in adults (male pattern baldness) however is not usually experienced in children. This is because male pattern baldness is due to the overproduction of the hormone known as Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is found in much smaller amounts in children, which is why they don’t experience male pattern baldness. Hair loss however, can be caused by many other conditions as well, some of which may affect children too.

Most causes of hair loss in children may only be temporary, such as ringworm, traction alopecia, and alopecia areata. In most of these cases, hair growth will be resumed once the cause of hair loss is diagnosed and treated. Some forms of hair loss in children unfortunately may be permanent, such as alopecia totalis. When alopecia totalis is experienced in children, they lose all of the hair on their scalp. There is a chance it could grow back, but it doesn’t always. The chance for successful treatment and hair regrowth is much less with alopecia totalis than it is in alopecia areata.

If you or your child has experienced hair loss, then you should visit your child’s pediatrician or doctor as soon as possible. Hair loss in children can be, and often is, an indicator of a bigger medical problem. Bosley suggests that you always seek a physician when your children’s health is concerned.

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