Children’s hair loss can be sudden or gradual, and it always has an underlying cause. This page provides an expert overview of the most common paediatric hair loss and scalp conditions and directs you to Shuna’s detailed guides.
Shuna Hammocks, the top-rated UK Consultant Trichologist based in Sussex, has extensive experience diagnosing and supporting children with hair and scalp disorders. Use this library to identify the category that best reflects your child’s symptoms.
This page summarises key children’s hair loss conditions and links to complete, specialist guides for each diagnosis.
Behavioural & Mechanical Hair Loss in Children
Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
As with adult cases, hair-pulling in children is often a subconscious habit used for emotional regulation during school stress or rest. It results in irregular patches and broken hairs of different lengths. Read Guide
Traction Hair Loss
Common in children who wear tight school hairstyles, heavy braids, or “ballet buns.” Because young hair follicles are more delicate, repeated tension can lead to thinning along the sensitive hairline. Read Guide
Autoimmune & Developmental Hair Loss
Alopecia Areata
This autoimmune condition can be particularly distressing for children as it causes sudden, smooth “coins” of hair loss. We focus on gentle management that supports the child’s immune system and self-esteem. Read Guide
Temporal Triangular Alopecia
A birth-related or early-childhood thinning is typically found at one or both temples. It is a stable, non-progressive condition that is often first noticed when a child’s “adult” hair begins to thicken. Read Guide
Scalp Conditions & Reactive Shedding
Cradle Cap (Infantile Seborrhoeic Dermatitis)
While famous in infants, “cradle cap” scales can persist into toddlerhood. We provide expert guidance on safe removal to prevent “frightening” temporary hair shedding. Read Guide
Telogen Effluvium
Children are highly sensitive to “systemic shocks.” Sudden shedding can occur after an upsetting period. Also, following a very high fever, a growth spurt, or a dip in iron levels is common in picky eaters. Read Guide
Diagnosis & Support Pathways
How We Assess Children’s Hair Loss
A paediatric trichology consultation includes detailed scalp and hair analysis, a review of medical and family history, and careful consideration of emotional and behavioural factors.
Management & Care Plans
Shuna provides evidence-based recommendations tailored to the specific condition, from gentle scalp care and styling advice to referral or collaborative care where appropriate.
Support for Children & Families
Hair changes in children are never “just cosmetic”. Families receive clear explanations, practical guidance, and compassionate support to help children feel understood and reassured.
Shuna Hammocks is a leading hair specialist based in Sussex, supporting patients across the South East and the UK.
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FAQs about Children’s Hair Loss Conditions
Is hair loss common in children?
Yes. Children can experience hair loss from several causes, including trichotillomania, traction hair loss, alopecia areata, cradle cap–related shedding and telogen effluvium. A professional assessment helps identify what is affecting your child.
How do I know if my child’s hair loss is serious?
If hair loss is sudden, patchy, ongoing, or upsetting your child, it should be checked. Bald patches, broken hairs, changes in the hairline, or shedding for several weeks all warrant professional assessment.
What is the difference between traction hair loss and alopecia areata?
Traction hair loss comes from tight styles or repeated pulling and often affects the hairline. Alopecia areata is autoimmune, causing smooth, round patches on a normal-looking scalp. They can look similar, so expert examination is essential.
Will my child’s hair grow back?
In many cases, yes. Traction hair loss, trichotillomania, cradle cap–related shedding, and telogen effluvium often improve when the cause is addressed. Conditions like temporal triangular alopecia are stable and non-progressive. A trichologist can explain the outlook.
When should I see a trichologist about my child’s hair loss?
Seek help if hair loss is sudden, worsening, patchy, linked to pulling or tight styles, or affecting your child’s confidence. At Shuna Hammocks Trichology in Sussex, children’s consultations include a full scalp and hair assessment and clear, family-centred guidance.
Can stress cause hair loss in children?
Yes. Emotional stress or anxiety can contribute to conditions such as trichotillomania or telogen effluvium.
Last reviewed by: Shuna Hammocks, MIT (January 2026)
