What is baby hair?

Baby hair, also called lanugo, is the fine, soft, unpigmented hair that covers a newborn baby's body. It usually appears around the 14th week of gestation and sheds before or shortly after birth. Lanugo serves the important function of regulating the baby's body temperature in the womb.

After birth, the lanugo usually falls out within the first few weeks of life and is replaced by vellus hair, which is fine and barely visible. As the baby grows, the vellus hair may be replaced by terminal hair, which is thicker and more pigmented.

Baby hair is very delicate and requires gentle care. It is important to use mild, baby-friendly shampoos and other hair care products to avoid any irritation or damage to the sensitive scalp. Regular combing or brushing of the baby's hair can also help prevent tangles and promote healthy hair growth.