Can Babies Be Born With Pink Hair
Some newborns can appear to have pinkish hair, but true pink is very rare. Hair color at birth is often influenced by melanin levels and may change within the first months. A reddish or pinkish tint can occur in babies with very light or fine hair.
What Causes Hair Color at Birth
Hair color is determined by genetics and the amount and type of melanin produced by hair follicles. Two forms of melanin, eumelanin and pheomelanin, influence shade. Low eumelanin and higher pheomelanin can create reddish or strawberry blonde tones that may look pink in bright light. For more on melanin and hair color, see this overview from the National Institutes of Health.
When Pink Hair May Appear or Fade
Pink tones in newborns often fade as melanin production increases during early infancy. In some cases, hair may appear pinkish due to residual blood flow, fine texture, or lighting. If hair color changes are sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, consult a pediatrician for evaluation.
