Caring for a newborn comes with many questions, especially for first-time parents. One common question is: when can I wash my newborn’s hair? Newborns have delicate skin and hair, and parents often worry about doing it too early or too often. In this article, we will discuss the best time to wash your newborn’s hair, how to do it safely, and tips for keeping their scalp healthy.
The Best Time to Wash Your Newborn’s Hair
For most newborns, you can wash their hair as soon as you bring them home from the hospital. There is no need to wash their hair every day, though. Their scalp and hair are very sensitive, so over-washing can dry out their skin and cause irritation.
It’s best to wash your newborn’s hair once or twice a week. This is enough to keep their scalp clean without stripping away the natural oils that protect their skin. You can also spot-clean their hair if it gets particularly dirty from spit-up or other messes. In the early weeks, you can use a damp cloth to gently wipe their scalp between hair washes if needed.
How to Wash Your Newborn’s Hair Safely
Washing your newborn’s hair for the first time can feel daunting, but with gentle care, it’s a simple process. Here are the steps to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for both you and your baby.
1. Prepare a Warm, Comfortable Environment
Before starting, make sure the room is warm to keep your baby from getting cold. You’ll also want to have everything you need within reach, including a soft washcloth, baby shampoo, and a small towel. You can either wash your baby’s hair during a bath or separately at the sink. Some parents prefer to use a baby bath seat, but it’s fine to hold your baby in your arms as well.
2. Use Lukewarm Water
Newborns are sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s important to use lukewarm water, around 98-100°F (37-38°C). Always test the water with your elbow or wrist to make sure it feels comfortable. Too hot or too cold water can startle your baby and make them uncomfortable.
3. Wet Your Baby’s Hair Gently
To begin, support your baby’s head and neck with one hand, and use your other hand to gently pour water over their hair. You can use a cup or a small washcloth to wet their hair, making sure to avoid getting water in their eyes or face. Newborns have soft spots on their heads called fontanelles, and while these areas are delicate, they are also well-protected. Just be gentle when washing around these spots.
4. Apply a Small Amount of Baby Shampoo
For the first few months, it’s best to use a mild, tear-free baby shampoo. These shampoos are formulated to be gentle on your newborn’s sensitive skin and scalp. You only need a small amount—about the size of a pea—since your baby’s hair is very fine.
Lather the shampoo between your fingers before applying it to your baby’s scalp. Use your fingertips to gently massage the shampoo into their scalp in a circular motion. Avoid using your nails, as this can scratch their skin.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve gently massaged the shampoo into your baby’s hair, use the same lukewarm water to rinse it out. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo, as any residue can irritate your baby’s skin. Again, use a cup or washcloth to pour water over their hair, being careful not to let the water run into their eyes or face.
6. Pat Dry with a Soft Towel
After rinsing, gently pat your baby’s hair dry with a soft, absorbent towel. Avoid rubbing their hair too much, as this can cause friction and irritate their scalp. Since newborns have very little hair, it will dry quickly.
How Often Should I Wash My Newborn’s Hair?
Newborns don’t need frequent hair washing. Once or twice a week is sufficient for most babies. Washing too often can strip their scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness and potential skin irritation. If your baby has very little hair, you can even wash it less often. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth between hair washes is usually enough to keep their scalp clean.
For babies with more hair or if their scalp gets oily, you may wash their hair every few days. However, avoid washing it daily unless directed by your pediatrician for a specific reason, such as a skin condition.
Managing Cradle Cap
Cradle cap, or infant seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that causes scaly, crusty patches on a newborn’s scalp. It’s not harmful and usually goes away on its own after a few months, but many parents want to know how to care for it.
If your baby has cradle cap, you can gently wash their scalp using a mild baby shampoo. Massaging the shampoo into the scalp can help loosen the scales. After washing, you can use a soft baby brush or a fine-toothed comb to gently remove the flakes. Never pick at the cradle cap, as this can irritate the skin.
You can also apply a small amount of baby oil or coconut oil to the affected areas before washing. Let the oil sit for about 15 minutes, which helps soften the scales, making them easier to wash off.
If the cradle cap becomes severe or doesn’t improve with regular washing, consult your pediatrician. In some cases, they may recommend a medicated shampoo or other treatment.
Keeping Your Baby’s Scalp Healthy
In addition to proper washing, there are a few other ways to keep your newborn’s scalp healthy and comfortable.
Avoid Overheating: Newborns can overheat easily, which can cause their scalp to sweat and become irritated. Make sure your baby isn’t wearing too many layers and keep their sleeping environment cool and comfortable.
Use Gentle Products: Stick to baby-specific shampoos and avoid harsh soaps, as these can dry out your baby’s skin. Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic and free from fragrances and dyes, which can cause irritation.
Brush Gently: If your baby has hair, use a soft-bristled baby brush to gently brush it once a day. This helps remove dead skin cells and can also prevent tangles. If your baby doesn’t have much hair, you can still use a soft brush to stimulate the scalp and remove any dry skin.
Don’t Overdo It: It can be tempting to wash your baby’s hair more often, especially if it smells like milk or has some build-up. But remember, less is more. Newborns’ skin is very delicate, and over-washing can disrupt the natural balance of oils on their scalp.
When to Consult Your Pediatrician
In most cases, washing your newborn’s hair is a simple and gentle process. However, if you notice any unusual signs, such as persistent dryness, redness, or a rash on the scalp, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. They can recommend appropriate treatment if needed.
Also, if your baby’s cradle cap becomes very thick, spreads to other parts of their body, or seems uncomfortable for your baby, talk to your doctor for guidance.
See also: How Many Times Should You Wash a Newborn? A Full Guide
Final Thoughts: Be Gentle and Patient
Washing your newborn’s hair is an important part of their overall hygiene, but it doesn’t need to be done too often. A gentle wash once or twice a week is enough to keep their scalp clean and healthy. Remember to use mild products, be gentle, and always monitor your baby’s comfort during the process. Over time, this routine will become a simple, loving part of caring for your baby.
