When To Start Shampooing Your Newborn’s Hair

When To Start Shampooing Your Newborn’s Hair

31 Oct 2022 | 3 min Read

Reema Shah

Author | 740 Articles

Newborn babies do not need shampoos for washing their hair. Hence you can start using shampoos only after your baby is around six weeks with a natural baby shampoo, like the BabyChakra Natural Strengthening Shampoo. This shampoo is made with sandalwood oil, organic curry leaf oil, rosemary oil and organic black seed oil. However, you need not shampoo your baby’s hair every day, just use a soft sponge and warm water. Read on to find out more about caring for your newborn’s hair and picking the right natural baby shampoo.

Using Shampoos

For newborn babies, only use plain water. You can start using unperfumed baby shampoos from about four to six weeks. However, only use a little so you don’t damage your baby’s skin.

Babies who have long hair may require a drop of mild shampoo on wet hair, lathered and rinsed off.

Treating Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a common scalp condition in babies which causes scaly and greasy patches on the scalp. You need not worry about it as it’s a sign that your baby’s skin is growing.

Try rubbing some baby oil or vegetable oil gently into your baby’s scalp to loosen the scales, then rinse it off. If the scalp looks red or infected, get advice from the doctor.

Tips to Wash Baby’s Hair

Here are some tips to wash your baby’s hair in the right manner.

  • Wet your baby’s hair and then take some shampoo on your palm. Rub the shampoo between your palms and apply it on his head ensuring it reaches the scalp. If your baby starts pushing your hand around, give him/her a bath toy or start singing a song along and make it a friendly activity.
  • To prevent the water from entering your baby’s eyes, use your arms to slightly lean your baby back. This will let the water drip from the back and won’t reach your baby’s face.
  • Be gentle while washing your baby’s hair as their head and scalp are soft and tender. Wet your baby’s hair first and then run a soapy sponge gently on the head in a rhythm that goes with the song you are humming. The sponge will clean your baby’s hair and scalp while keeping him/her smiling as well.
  • Avoid keeping the baby wet for too long as they may catch a cold. Once you have cleaned your baby, rinse and pat dry using a soft towel.

Make Washing Baby’s Hair Easier

  • Keep the bath short and quick.
  • Go for a mild, natural baby shampoo 
  • Use a soft sponge to clean the hair
  • Avoid making the baby lean without support.
  • To calm the baby, gently massage the head while washing. 

So you can wash your newborn’s hair after they reach the four to six weeks mark. However, pick a mild and natural baby shampoo and avoid using any adult products. 

Cover image credit – HollandandBarrett

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