Essential Winter Hair Care Tips for Children

As winter sets in, many parents are unsure about the frequency of washing their child's hair. Pediatrician Dr. Surya Manikkam provides insights on the ideal washing schedule, emphasizing that 2-3 times a week is sufficient. He also highlights the importance of rinsing out shampoo thoroughly to prevent irritation and offers solutions for common issues like cradle cap. This article is a must-read for parents looking to ensure their child's scalp health during the colder months.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 8, 2025, 14:33 IST

Understanding Hair Washing for Kids in Winter

Parenting Insights: As winter approaches, many parents find themselves questioning the necessity of washing their child's hair daily during bath time. Given that the head is particularly vulnerable to cold, many are hesitant to wash their child's hair every day. If you're grappling with this concern, this article offers valuable insights. Pediatrician and NICU specialist Dr. Surya Manikkam recently addressed this topic in a video shared on his Instagram. Let's explore his expert advice:

Recommended Frequency for Washing Hair:
According to Dr. Manikkam, daily hair washing for children is not necessary. Typically, washing their hair 2-3 times a week is adequate. Young children's scalps do not accumulate oil as quickly as adults', so washing too often can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and itching. Therefore, regardless of the season, it's best to limit hair washing to 2-3 times weekly.

Importance of Thorough Rinsing:
The pediatrician emphasizes that even when using a gentle baby shampoo, it's crucial to rinse it out completely. Residual shampoo on the scalp can lead to flakes, itching, or irritation.

Addressing Cradle Cap:
Many children experience dry patches or yellowish flakes on their scalp, commonly known as cradle cap. This is a typical condition. To manage it:

Apply a small amount of mineral oil to the hair and scalp.

Gently loosen the flakes using a soft brush.
Then, wash them away with a mild baby shampoo.
In some instances, a doctor may recommend ketoconazole shampoo, but this should only be used under medical guidance.
Experts advise that since a baby's scalp is delicate, proper washing techniques and suitable products are more important than frequent washing.

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