Yes, a baby's hair color can change.
A baby's hair color can change significantly during their first few years of life. Here's a more detailed explanation:
Initial Hair vs. Permanent Hair
The hair a baby is born with is often referred to as vellus hair. This is usually fine and light in color. As new hair grows in, it transitions to terminal hair, which is the coarser, darker, and permanent hair type seen in older children and adults.
Hair Color Fluctuation
According to research, a baby's hair color isn't fixed immediately. It may continue to fluctuate throughout the first five years of life. This means that even after the initial vellus hair is replaced, the new hair color can still change.
| Timeframe | Possible Change |
|---|---|
| Initial Growth | Vellus hair darkens to terminal hair |
| First Five Years | Hair color continues to fluctuate |
Factors Influencing Hair Color Change
Several factors can influence these changes in hair color:
- Genetics: As a baby grows, their genetic makeup becomes more pronounced, influencing pigment production.
- Melanin Production: Melanin is the pigment responsible for hair color. Its production can vary as a baby develops.
- Sun Exposure: Sunlight can lighten hair color.
