Trichotillomania, or hair-pulling disorder, is a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) that often begins in childhood. While it is frequently associated with older children, adolescents, and adults, "baby trich" refers to hair-pulling in children under the age of 5. This behavior can be puzzling and distressing for parents, especially since children in this age group may lack the verbal skills to express their feelings or reasons for engaging in hair-pulling.

Parents and other caregivers may notice their child playing with their hair, twirling, repeatedly tugging, or even pulling out strands. Over time, this can result in noticeable hair loss, commonly in patches on the scalp, but it may also affect eyelashes and eyebrows. It is important for caregivers to note any biting or eating of the hair as well as any symptoms of belly pain or changes in eating, digestion, or weight. Although uncommon, ingestion of hair can result in a trichobezoar (hairball), which is a serious condition requiring medical attention.

Excoriation (skin picking) disorder may also be observed in young children, appearing as picking at the nail cuticles; scratching the skin of the face, arms, or legs; or picking at scabs or other skin irregularities. Nail biting of the hands and/or the feet may also be observed. While mild nail-biting might be dismissed as common, more significant nail-biting can lead to damage to the nail bed or increase the risk of infection. As with hair-pulling, parents........

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