Pediatric Hair Cosmetics: Physiology, Safety and Product Considerations

Pediatric hair care presents unique challenges due to physiological and structural differences between children's and adults' hair and scalp, necessitating evidence-based approaches. This review highlights key aspects such as lower sebum production, age-related changes in hair density, and structural variability among hair types, which affect product interaction with hair and scalp. Safety concerns include ocular tolerance, allergen potential, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, with limited research on cumulative exposure and long-term effects. The review emphasizes the need for gentle formulations with controlled pH and minimal irritants, and calls for clearer regulations and more child-focused research, as current cosmetic regulations lack age-specific policies.