An Ideal Hair Care For Babies- What You Must Know?

New parenting is a roller coaster ride of emotions and learning. Among the various concerns parents have, baby hair care often tops the list, especially when something seems unusual. Whether it's shedding hair or dealing with cradle cap patches, parents can feel unsure and worried. However, there’s no need to panic—these are common and manageable concerns. Here, we have put together some essential tips, facts, and must-haves for the ideal baby hair care routine for your tiny tots. 

Is Your Newborn's Hair Normal? 

When it comes to newborns, there is no single standard for what “normal” hair is. A baby might be born with feathery hair, thick locks, or even no hair at all. The good news is, all of it is completely normal. Babies with thick lanugo (the hair present before birth) may shed their hair later, while bald babies will grow their vellus hair (the fine hair that appears after lanugo sheds). Even babies with thin hair may experience shedding or texture changes. These variations are due to hormones and genetics inherited from the mother during pregnancy. As newborns grow and adjust to the world, their hair changes in color, texture, and thickness over time. 

Benefits of Bathing Baby Daily for Healthy Hair 

Many parents wonder if they should bathe their babies daily, especially when it comes to baby hair care. The benefits of bathing a baby daily extend beyond cleanliness; regular baths help keep the scalp healthy and free from oils and dirt that could clog hair follicles. Additionally, daily bathing at a fixed time helps regulate your baby’s body, improving hair growth by maintaining a healthy scalp environment. However, it's important to use gentle products that won’t dry out the baby's sensitive skin and scalp. 

Hair Routine: Less is More 

A baby's hair is five times more delicate than an adult’s, which means that hair care routines need to be gentle. Keeping the scalp clean and healthy is key for strong and healthy hair growth. But remember, for babies, less is more—fewer products, natural and organic baby products, gentle care, and avoiding excessive washing are essential. 

Essential Steps for an Ideal Baby Hair Care 

1. Oil Massage for Baby’s Scalp 

One of the most delicate parts of a baby’s body is their scalp, which requires proper nourishment to stay healthy. Regular oil massages are excellent for moisturizing the scalp, preventing dandruff, and making it easier to detangle knots that may form due to your baby rolling their head around. 

Massage also helps remove cradle cap flakes. The added benefit? Massaging your baby’s scalp improves blood circulation, which helps stimulate hair growth and also makes your baby feel relaxed and ready for a good nap afterward. For the best results, use oils that are soft, enriching, and free of added fragrances. Baby hair oil with coconut oil, olive oil, and sesame oil are excellent options for baby hair care. 

For instance, the Baby Forest’s Nanhi Champi Baby Hair Oil is a derma-safe, cruelty-free, and vegan oil, enriched with Ayurveda's goodness. It contains coconut, sesame, and other natural oils that nourish your baby’s scalp. 

How to Bathe a Newborn for Healthy Hair 

Understanding the correct baby bath procedure is important for maintaining healthy hair. Here’s a step-by-step guide for washing your baby’s hair during bath time: 

Prepare the bath:

Firstly, make sure you have everything you need around you - shampoo, towel, cup, and washcloth—before you start to avoid leaving your baby unattended. 

Check the water temperature:

The ideal temperature is around 98°F. You can test it by dipping your wrist in the water. 

Gently wet the baby’s scalp:

Use a small cup or your hand to carefully wet their hair. 

Apply a small amount of baby shampoo:

Opt for a gentle, chemical-free shampoo, like Baby Forest’s Nikhrae Kesh Baby Shampoo, which is formulated to cleanse without stripping away natural oils. 

Rinse thoroughly:

Using a cup, gently pour water to rinse off all the shampoo. 

Dry the hair gently:

Pat your baby’s head with a soft towel to dry their hair without causing friction. 

Baby Hair Products to Use 

Choosing the right baby hair care products is crucial for your child’s scalp health. Here are some must-haves for your baby’s hair care routine: 

• Baby Oil:

  Helps moisturize the scalp and untangle hair. 

• Gentle Baby Shampoo:

  Opt for a chemical-free shampoo that’s safe for babies. 

• Soft Towels:

  Use soft, absorbent hooded towels to dry your baby’s hair after a bath. 

Combing - A Key to Healthy Hair 

Many people are unaware of how important the right comb is for baby hair care. Combing helps open up the pores on the scalp and promotes natural oil (sebum) production. This not only moisturizes the scalp but also stimulates healthy hair growth. Avoid using ordinary combs, as they may cause irritation or scratch your baby’s scalp. 

For the best results, use Baby Forest’s Sunhere Resham comb, which is made from natural sources and is gentle enough for newborns and toddlers. It’s designed to make combing a relaxing experience for your baby, while ensuring their scalp is well cared for.