Brushing your baby's hair is a gentle way to stimulate their scalp and help manage cradle cap. Use a soft-bristled brush designed specifically for babies. For newborns and infants, gently brush their hair in a single direction using smooth, gentle strokes. This sensory experience can be calming.
Choosing the Right Brush
- Soft Bristles: Opt for a brush with soft, natural bristles (like goat hair) or extra-gentle synthetic bristles. Avoid brushes with hard bristles that could scratch your baby's delicate scalp.
- Baby-Specific Design: Many baby brushes are specifically designed with small heads and ergonomic handles for easy maneuvering.
- Wide-Toothed Comb: A wide-toothed comb is also useful, especially for detangling longer or slightly thicker hair.
Brushing Techniques
- Clean, Dry Scalp: Brush your baby's hair on a clean, dry scalp.
- Gentle Strokes: Use gentle, light strokes in the direction of hair growth. Avoid pulling or tugging.
- Cradle Cap: A soft brush can help remove loose cradle cap scales. However, if cradle cap is severe, consult a pediatrician.
- Sensory Activity: For newborns, brushing can be a soothing sensory experience.
When to Start Brushing
Many sources suggest that a soft brush can be helpful from birth onward, particularly for managing cradle cap. If your baby has little or no hair, you may not need to brush frequently. As their hair grows longer, brushing becomes more important to prevent tangles.
Additional Tips
- Never use your own hairbrush on your baby. Maintain hygiene and use a dedicated baby hairbrush.
- Always supervise your baby while brushing their hair.
- If your baby seems uncomfortable, stop brushing.
