The low-down on how to manage your babe’s hair
Our resident hair and beauty expert, Erica H. Wearing provides insightful tips and advice about managing your babe’s hair.
1. What age can you start cutting a baby or child’s hair? Is there an age?
I shaved my sons head when he was 4 months old . He had an adorable mini mullet, but the reason I shaved? His hair was all patchy and full of bald spots . Shaving it helps hair grow in evenly.
It was hard to say goodbye to the baby hair, so I would say this isn’t for everyone.
2. Are there special products you should be using on baby or children’s hair?
There is a great hair care line with all different types of great products called Hot Tot that is safe and effective for your little one’s hair.
3. Are there certain ingredients you should avoid in terms of hair care products for kids?
Always choose products with as little chemicals as possible, avoid any sulphates and anything containing parabens. Using a gentle tear free shampoo would be best .
4. At what age do children’s hair usually change – i.e. from straight to curly?
Hair can change colour and texture with age, usually due to hormones. My hair was straight when I was a kid but as I got older it got much curlier. So, for you moms out there that wish your little one had some curls, one day that could be true.
5. How often should you wash a little one’s hair?
Baby/toddler hair should be washed only once or twice a week. Their little scalps and skin are sensitive, and their hair really doesn’t get dirty unless they are rolling around in the mud – like my little guy.
6. Any tricks to managing cradle cap?
A great tip for moms trying to get rid of cradle cap:
- apply coconut oil on dry scalp
- let sit for a few minutes
- exfoliate in circular motions gently with baby hair brush
- wet hair and shampoo
This tip will help brush off loose skin and hydrate the scalp.
7. Should you use conditioner on a child’s hair?
I would use conditioner on children with curly or long, fine, tangly hair. This will help detangle the hair, which makes it much less painful brushing the hair out – and also will hydrate the strands. For all other hair types, the hair is so soft I don’t feel there really is a need for conditioner until they are older. If your child is in swimming lessons please use a shampoo /conditioner that is best to remove chlorine buildup that’s safe for younger children.
Erica H. Wearing has been a stylist for over 16 years and she absolutely loves what she does . “It’s a great feeling to help people feel and look their best when they leave my chair. I wouldn’t trade this for any other job in the world!”
Check out Erica at Ka!Boom Hair Salon 1129 West Pender Street, Vancouver B.C .
(604)681-6003
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