For whatever reason, there are parents out there who aren't happy with how their child's hair looks. These are very young kids, usually under the age of three. Mom or Dad (or Grandma or Auntie) start looking for various styling methods, techniques, tools and accessories that will make the child's hair look like they want it to look. When it comes to very young heads, try to remember that less is more.
A toddler doesn't need the volume of products on her hair that her mother might. There's no need for gel, pomade or even curl-enhancers. Instead, let a child's hair flourish on its own with a daily brushing (with soft-bristle brushes), combing and a small amount of hair oil or conditioner. A spritz from a water bottle can help work through tangles if necessary. To finish off the style, one or two barrettes is fine, but avoid:
- Metal accessories
- Tight styling
- Extensions
- Rubber bands
- A heap of product
- Heavy, goopy products
Young scalps are still developing and a child's true hair texture may not reveal itself until he or she is at least eight years-old. If a tender head is subject to harsh treatment on a daily basis (including chemical processes), it's possible that a child's hair will be permanently damaged, leading to hair loss.
It's very common for babies to have odd hair growth patterns. They may have a full, lush patch on top with bald sides. They may be nearly bald all over. While this may be annoying for parents of a girl who want everyone to know she's a girl, slip a pink fabric headband over her head and call it a day. There's no need to wrestle with trying to get two little strands of hair into a barrette.
Your baby's hair will grow and flourish if mostly left to its own devices. Use gentle shampoos and gentle techniques when combing or brushing. Beyond a little water and oil, you don't need to do much else to it. Before you know it, your son or daughter will have a head full of hair that you can then braid, plait, cut into cute styles and accessorize.
