Why children lose their hair

The incidence of hair loss (alopecia) has its roots in childhood and is more common than you may think. However with the right diagnosis it can, in most cases, be effectively treated and the hair loss will be temporary and eventually grow back.

Trevenen Glenn Bam, a Cape Town based trichologist (trichology is the science of the structure, function and diseases of the human hair), says that a visit to your paediatrician should be your first step if your child is suffering from hair loss and you are concerned.

“Most paediatricians will be able to diagnose and treat common causes of hair loss, such as ringworm, traction alopecia, and telogen effluvium. For other conditions, including trichotillomania and alopecia areata, your paediatrician will likely refer you to a specialist for further treatment,” he said.