What does it mean when a child’s hair starts falling out suddenly?
A. While many people tend to think of hair loss as only happening to aging men, it can happen to anyone, including women and children. The most common cause of hair loss in kids is alopecia areata, which: • Is caused by the immune system attacking the hair follicles. • Usually doesn’t indicate serious disease. • Can range from bald patches to total loss of hair all over the body. For this type of hair loss as well as others, see a dermatologist. Learn More.